This chorale concludes Bach's Pentecost cantata BWV 174, featuring his reorchestration of Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 with added wind instruments. The melody originates from a 16th-century hymn, later harmonized by Bach for this sacred work expressing devotion to God.
Bach adapted the first movement of his Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 for this cantata's opening sinfonia, adding wind instruments for richer textures. The work explores themes of divine love through expressive arias, including a striking "knocking motif" aria urging believers to seize salvation.
