The first performance of this cantata, which belongs to Bach's third annual cycle of cantatas, took place on the 2nd day of Christmas in 1725. With the exception of the closing chorale, with a text from 1711 by Georg Christian Lehms, the text of the cantata refers to St. Stephan, the first martyr of the New Testament and patron saint whose name day occurs on 26 December. In a dialog between the Soul (Soprano) and Jesus (bass) the struggle with sin is recounted respectively in two expressive arias arias. The entire orchestra is involved in the first movement as well as in in the closing chorale together with the choir.
- ISMN: 9790007139988 (M007139988)
