Service Book and Hymnal of the Lutheran Church in America ‎#150

150. A mighty fortress is our God

1 A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper he amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great,
And, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

2 Did we in our own strength confide
Our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side,
The Man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is he;
Lord Sabaoth his Name,
From age to age the same,
And he must win the battle.

3 And though this world, with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us;
We will not fear, for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us:
The prince of darkness grim,
We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure,
For lo! his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

4 That word above all earthly powers,
No thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours
Thru Him who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go,
This mortal life also;
The body they may kill:
God's truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.

Text Information

• First Line: A mighty fortress is our God
• Translator: Frederick H. Hedge, 1805 - 90
• Author: Martin Luther, 1483 - 1546
• Meter: 8 7, 8 7, 6 6, 6 6, 7.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1958
• Scripture:
  Psalm 46
• Topic: The Church: The People of God; The Life In Christ: Conflict and Victory

Tune Information

• Name: EIN' FESTE BURG
• Composer: Martin Luther, 1483 - 1546
• Meter: 8 7, 8 7, 6 6, 6 6, 7.
• Key: D Major