You, Lord, Are Both Lamb and Shepherd
You, Lord, are both Lamb and Shepherd
The hymn articulates the paradox of Christ as both sacrificial Lamb and protective Shepherd, central to Lutheran Christology and soteriology. It emphasizes Christ's redemptive work and present pastoral care, reflecting both the objective and subjective dimensions of salvation.
History & Background
Written in 1991 by Canadian hymnodist Sylvia G. Dunstan, this contemporary hymn was composed for liturgical use in Protestant worship. It first appeared in various modern hymnals and has become increasingly popular in Lutheran congregations since its inclusion in LSB.
Hymnal Appearances
- All Creation Sings — 966
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 793
- Glory to God — 274
- Lutheran Service Book — 740
- Voices Together — 243
Bulletin Note
Written by Sylvia G. Dunstan in 1991, this hymn reclaims the classical paradox of Christ as both Agnus Dei and Good Shepherd, central to Luther's christology and the church's ancient worship.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of Christ's atoning work by insisting that his cross is not past event alone but present pastoral reality—the Lamb who died continues as the Shepherd who tends us now.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christological paradox: Christ's nature encompasses all contradictions (sacrifice/kingship, judgment/mercy, cosmic/intimate), leading to trust in divine mystery and transformative power
Themes
Christ's dual nature Redemption Trust in Christ Shepherd care Sacrifice and salvation