The above explanation is a really good one. I just wanted to add that when Martin Luther talked about Christ dying for the world's sins, he said Jesus died the death afforded to thieves, liars, murderers, betrayers, etc. Thus when the captain gives his life for the very man that cursed him, he dies the death that should be reserved for such aforementioned transgressors, directly simulating the act of Christ on the cross. It is only fitting, in relation to this song, that Luther himself called this instance "the great exchange."
This song, to me, is a parable to mirror Luther's way of explaining the atonement.
The above explanation is a really good one. I just wanted to add that when Martin Luther talked about Christ dying for the world's sins, he said Jesus died the death afforded to thieves, liars, murderers, betrayers, etc. Thus when the captain gives his life for the very man that cursed him, he dies the death that should be reserved for such aforementioned transgressors, directly simulating the act of Christ on the cross. It is only fitting, in relation to this song, that Luther himself called this instance "the great exchange."
This song, to me, is a parable to mirror Luther's way of explaining the atonement.
Thanks for that information, now I really can connect the meaning. Great find!
Thanks for that information, now I really can connect the meaning. Great find!