Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 7
The phrase “his pure sacrifice of love” is offered “upon every shore”; what do you think the hymn means by the church offering a sacrifice, and how does that compare with modern claims that any emphasis on sacrifice and obedience threatens grace?
Another way to ask: What do you think it means for the church to offer a “sacrifice of love” everywhere? How does that fit with the worry that talking about sacrifice and obedience takes away from grace?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The hymn seems to mean the church offers to Christ a “pure sacrifice of love”—a worshipful, loving offering expressed globally—rather than earning salvation. Within the hymn’s logic, sacrifice is a response of gratitude (“hymn of grateful praise”), not a rival to grace.
- The church is depicted as actively offering: “offering upon every shore.”
- What is offered is described as “his pure sacrifice of love,” tying sacrifice to love and purity, not payment.
- This is placed under thanksgiving: “For thy church… Christ our God to thee we raise; this our hymn of grateful praise.”
- The hymn emphasizes grace-first language elsewhere: “to our race so freely give,” indicating giving is free.
- The repeated “For… Christ our God…” pattern frames all action as response to gifts received.