“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” is a timeless Christian hymn penned by Martin Luther, the influential German monk, and theologian considered the father of the Protestant Reformation, in the 16th century. The story behind this popular classic is so inspiring.
Luther, incensed by the corruption and excesses of the Roman Catholic Church, sought to spread the gospel of salvation through faith alone, a message he first expounded in his 1517 publication of “95 Theses.”
A list of grievances aimed at inciting reform within the Church, Luther’s theses challenged the sale of indulgences, a practice that had become a source of corruption and abuse. In them, Luther emphasized the importance of the Bible’s teachings and called for the Church to pivot its focus away from works and good deeds and back to the gospel message.
The Church, however, viewed Luther’s teachings as a threat to its authority, and it swiftly moved to silence him and his followers. Despite being excommunicated and declared an outlaw by the Holy Roman Emperor, Luther persevered, continuing to preach and write, including composing hymns to accompany his message.
“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” written in 1529, is one of those hymns, revered as the “Battle Hymn of the Reformation.” The lyrics, drawing inspiration from Psalm 46, celebrate God’s strength and protection and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of persecution and adversity.
‘A Mighty Fortress Is Our God’ lyrics
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
does 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.
You 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 has 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
through 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!
Songwriters
Martin Luther
Published by
Public Domain
The hymn soon gained widespread popularity among Luther’s followers and has been passed down through the centuries, becoming a beloved and enduring hymn of the Christian faith, still sung in churches worldwide to this day.
This hymn stands not just as a musical composition but as a testament to Luther’s unwavering faith in God’s protection during trying times. It serves as a reminder that in our hour of darkness, God is always there, a refuge and stronghold to which we can turn.
WATCH: 176 Singers Perform ‘A Mighty Fortress Is Our God’
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