The Worship Review: Recent Episodes
Colin & Tyler
Informative reviews of Christian worship music by a history professor (Colin) and a linguist (Tyler). Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worship-review/support
This week's episode analyzes a song by Dustin Kensrue called "Grace Alone." The song addresses several core elements of the gospel: that we have no right to approach God, that we have redemption and salvation through Jesus, that the Holy Spirit makes the light of Christ shine on our darkened hearts, and more.
Lyrics:
I was an orphan lost at the Fall, Running away when I'd hear Your call, But Father, You worked Your will
I had no righteousness of my own, I had no right to draw near Your throne, But Father, You loved me still
And in love before You laid the world's foundation You predestined to adopt me as Your own
You have raised me so high up above my station I'm a child of God by grace and grace alone
You left Your home to seek out the lost; You knew the great and terrible cost, But Jesus, Your face was set
I worked my fingers down to the bone; Nothing I did could ever atone, But Jesus, You paid my debt
By Your blood, I have redemption and salvation; Lord, You died that I might reap what You have sown
And You rose that I might be a new creation; I am born again by grace and grace alone
I was in darkness all of my life; I never knew the day from the night, But Spirit, You made me see
I swore I knew the way on my own; Head full of rocks, a heart made of stone, But Spirit, You moved in me
At your touch my sleeping spirit was awakened; On my darkened heart the light of Christ has shone
Called into a kingdom that cannot be shaken; Heaven's citizen by grace and grace alone
So I'll stand in faith by grace and grace alone; I will run the race by grace and grace alone
I will slay my sin by grace and grace alone; I will reach the end by grace and grace alone
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If you saw the phrase "Free to Love" on a bumper sticker in California, what would you think it meant? What about in a worship song? Colin and Tyler talk about "It was Finished upon that Cross" by CityAlight.
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Colin and Tyler yuk it up on this episode of The Worship Review. Brandon Lake's very popular song 'Gratitude' provides an opportunity to discuss thankfulness and how we express it to God.
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This worship song reminds us that all our praise ultimately belongs to King Jesus. As we dive into the lyrics of this modern praise tune, we take a closer look at the creation declaring God's glory, the implications of God existing outside of time, and the eternity of praise Christians have to look forward to. "1,000 Hallelujahs and 1,000 more" equals 2,000, but how many points out of five will Colin and Tyler give this song? Tune in to find out.
[Verse 1]
Who else would rocks cry out to worship?
Whose glory taught the stars to shine?
Perhaps creation longs to have the words to sing
But this joy is mine
[Chorus]
With a thousand hallelujahs
We magnify Your name
You alone deserve the glory
The honor and the praise
Lord Jesus
This song is forever Yours
A thousand hallelujahs
And a thousand more
[Verse 2]
Who else would die for our redemption?
Whose resurrection means I’ll rise?
There isn’t time enough to sing of all You’ve done
But I have eternity to try
[Bridge]
Praise to the Lord
To the lamb
To the King of Heaven
Praise for He rose
Now He reigns
We will sing forever
Praise to the Lord
To the lamb
To the King of Heaven
Praise for He rose
Now He reigns
We will sing forever
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This classic song has been sung at Advent time for generations. How well does it present the gospel? Is it easy to understand? Should churches sing it? We discuss on this episode of The Worship Review.
Lyrics:
O Holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
'Til He appears and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
Fall on your knees; O hear the Angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born
O night, O Holy night, O night divine!
Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming
Here come the Wise Men from Orient land
The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger
In all our trials born to be our friend
He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend
Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His Gospel is Peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
And in His name, all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we
Let all within us Praise His Holy name
Christ is the Lord; O praise His name forever!
His power and glory evermore proclaim
His power and glory evermore proclaim
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This easy-going and elegant song appeared on both the Rain For Roots Waiting Songs album as well as Sandra McCracken's God's Highway. Should an advent song like this one-a song which relies on metaphor and seasonal context--be treated differently than songs which use similar elements, but without the context? Colin and Tyler discuss.
Lyrics:
For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait
For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait
Truly our hope is in You
Truly our hope is in You
O Lord of life, our only hope
Your radiance shines
On all who look -- to You in the dark
Emmanuel come, come light our hearts
For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait
For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait
Truly our hope is in You
Truly our hope is in You
O Joy above all other loves
In you we find more than enough
We come as we are, O heal and restore
Come light our hearts
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Colin and Tyler look at a CCM classic that wonders at what the experience of Heaven will be like. We talk about individual vs. collective expression of worship, thinking and feeling in worship, and reference some Biblical texts that shape our understanding of Heaven.
Lyrics:I can only imagine what it will be likeWhen I walk, by your sideI can only imagine what my eyes will seeWhen you face is before meI can only imagineI can only imagineSurrounded by You gloryWhat will my heart feelWill I dance for you JesusOr in awe of You be stillWill I stand in your presenceOr to my knees will I fallWill I sing hallelujahWill I be able to speak at allI can only imagineI can only imagineI can only imagine when that day comesWhen I find myself standing in the SonI can only imagine when all I would do is foreverForever worship YouI can only imagineI can only imagineSurrounded by Your gloryWhat will my heart feelWill I dance for You, JesusOr in awe of you be stillWill I stand in your presenceOr to my knees will I fallWill I sing hallelujahWill I be able to speak at allI can only imagineI can only imagine hey ya ahSurrounded by Your gloryWhat will my heart feelWill I dance for You, JesusOr in awe of you be stillWill I stand in Your presenceOr to my knees will I fallWill I sing hallelujahWill I be able to speak at allI can only imagineI can only imagine hey ya ahI can only imagine yeah yeahI can only imagineI can only imagine ey ey eyI can only imagineI can only imagine when all I will doIs forever, forever worship YouI can only imagine
Song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_lrrq_opng
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Colin and Tyler are presented with a challenge this week in comprehending the lyrics to Thank God I Do by Lauren Daigle. Undoubtedly popular, the song peaked at number 1 on the Billboard US Christian Songs chart. Thank God I Do says "you're my safe place, my hideaway, my anchor, my saving grace," but who is the "you" of the song? Tune in to hear the discussion.
Lyrics
I've seen love come and
I've seen love walk away
So many questions
Will anybody stay?
It's been a hard year
So many nights in tears
All of the darkness
Tryin' to fight my fears
Alone, so long, alone
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
I'd probably fall off the edge
I don't know where I'd go if You ever let go
So keep me held in Your hands
I've started breathin'
The weight is lifted here
With You, it's easy
My head is finally clear
There's nothin' missing
When You are by my side
I took the long road
But now I realizе
I'm home, with You, I'm home
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
I'd probably fall off thе edge
I don't know where I'd go if You ever let go
So keep me held in Your hands
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
I'd probably fall of the edge
I don't know where I'd go if You ever let go
So keep me held in Your hands
You're my safe place
My hideaway
You're my anchor
My saving grace
You're my constant
My steadiness
You're my shelter
My oxygen
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
Thank God, I do
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
I'd probably fall off the edge
I don't know where I'd go if You ever let go
So keep me held in Your hands
I don't know who I'd be if I didn't know You
Thank God, I do
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Should a worship song really call people "vile" or "ruined"? Tyler and Colin parse through an old song that continues to be sung in many churches: "Man of Sorrows" (aka: "Hallelujah! What A Savior!").
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Worship leader and songwriter Nathan Partain set Psalm 27 to music. We discuss both the style and substance of this thoughtful rendition.
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Here's a modern hymn, written by Matt Papa and Matt Boswell, dealing with God's abundant mercy for sinners. Even though our sins are indeed "many," God's grace is greater. In this episode, we talk about the riches of God's love, the fact that God chooses not to remember the sins of His people, and the refreshing, constant mercy that awaits Christians every day. We also learn that Colin has a strong internal clock.
Song background:
https://www.mattpapa.com/songs/his-mercy-is-more
Versions sampled:
Matt Papa & Matt Boswell: His Mercy is More https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBZk0bVjCAA
Shane & Shane: His Mercy is More https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBZk0bVjCAA
Keith & Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa: His Mercy is More https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-31oJTdh1w
Lyrics:
What love could remember no wrongs we have done
Omniscient, all knowing, He counts not their sum
Thrown into a sea without bottom or shore
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
What patience would wait as we constantly roam
What Father, so tender, is calling us home
He welcomes the weakest, the vilest, the poor
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
Praise the Lord, His mercy is more
Stronger than darkness, new every morn
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
What riches of kindness He lavished on us
His blood was the payment, His life was the cost
We stood 'neath a debt we could never afford
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
Praise the Lord, His mercy is more
Stronger than darkness, new every morn
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
Praise the Lord, His mercy is more
Stronger than darkness, new every morn
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
Our sins they are many, His mercy is more
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This setting of Psalm 18 deals with deliverance from trouble, and more importantly, deliverance from death and sin in Jesus Christ's triumphant resurrection. Colin and Tyler discuss love for The Lord and seeking refuge in Him, what Psalm 18 says about His wrath, the fear of God (Proverbs 1:7), what it is like reading the Bible as one ages, the benefits of singing old hymns, and a children's movie.
Unfortunately, no recorded choral setting with the hymn lyrics is widely accessible. Colin reads the text over a piano setting and the original Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3.
Text:
O Lord, I Love You, My shield, My tow'r,
my stronghold, my rock, my saving pow'r,
I worship you! Bless your holy name!
What unceasing praise your mercies claim!
Cords of death had bound my heart with fear;
tidal waves of Satan crested near,
"God, my God," I cried, "hear from your throne;
save me from these depths, make mercy known!"
Saving might brought answer, Lord Most High.
Dark your path; your storm clouds swept the sky;
lightning flashed, deep thunder spoke your word.
Waters parted; death your summons heard.
You came down, almighty Lord, my stay,
drew me up and drove my foes away.
Your right hand put Satan's host to flight,
then clasped me, embraced in your delight.
Now among all nations I would sing,
praising our anointed Lord, our King.
Hear His cry of triumph from the grave,
see him leap the wall of death to save.
His the righteousness that claims reward,
his the saving coming of the Lord.
Hail him, Victor in that deadly strife:
Jesus is our rock, our Prince of life.
Audio sampled in this episode:
"620. O Lord, I Love You, My Shield, My Tower (Saint-Saens Tune), Trinity Hymnal" by Piano Series https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aNAGwIhkdI
"Saint-Saëns - Symphony No 3 in C minor, Op 78 - Järvi" by Classical Vault 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWCZq33BrOo
"BABE - If I had words" by Hilde Orens https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H11mlCL-dkE
Full text of Psalm 18: Link
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This episode not only discusses the classic hymn, "Holy, Holy, Holy", but investigates what makes a song trinitarian. And what does it mean when this song says "though the darkness hide thee"?
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Tyler and Colin continue to evaluate "excellent" songs with Shane & Shane's "All Sufficient Merit".
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Martin Luther set Psalm 130 to verse; Chris Miner put music to it, and Andrew Osenga and Emily Deloach of Indelible Grace Music blend their voices to produce this version. Colin and Tyler discuss these five verses and the theology undergirding them. We address the gravity of man's sin, the exceeding magnitude of God's mercy, and the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who saves his people from their sins.
Lyrics:
Music by Christopher Miner
Words by Martin Luther
©1997 Christopher Miner Music
- From the depths of woe I raise to Thee, a voice of lamentation.
Lord, turn a gracious ear to me, And hear my supplication.
If Thou iniquities dost mark, Our secret sins and misdeeds dark,
O who shall stand before Thee? - To wash away the crimson stain, Grace, grace alone availeth.
Our works, alas! are all in vain; In much the best life faileth.
No man can glory in Thy sight, All must alike confess Thy might,
And live alone by mercy. - Therefore my trust is in the Lord, And not in mine own merit.
On Him my soul shall rest, His word upholds my fainting spirit.
His promised mercy is my fort, My comfort, and my sweet support.
I wait for it with patience. - What though I wait the live-long night, And ’til the dawn appeareth.
My heart still trusteth in His might, It doubteth not nor feareth.
Do thus, O ye of Israel’s seed, Ye of the Spirit born indeed,
And wait ’til God appeareth. - Though great our sins and sore our woes,
His grace much more aboundeth.
His helping love no limit knows, Our upmost need it soundeth.
Our Shepherd good and true is He, Who will at last His Israel free,
From all their sin and sorrow.credits
Indelible Grace version: https://youtu.be/1aVWBSmghAs
Chris Miner version: https://christopherminer901.bandcamp.com/track/psalm-130
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Many listeners will never have heard of this week's song "Son of God" by Nathan Partain. In discussing this song, Colin and Tyler touch on Gungor's "Friend of God", whether artificial intelligence can become Christian, gendered language in the bible and whether it is applicable to all believers
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We've said that our best episodes are ones in which we disagree. This is one of those. Today we're looking at the ancient hymn "Be Thou My Vision," which asks God to be many things to the Christian. We make sure to include the oft-dropped "battle shield" verse. Colin emphasizes the necessity to include explicit reference to soteriological themes in music while Tyler investigates the variety offered by grammatical mood.
Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one/
Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul's Shelter, Thou my high Tow’r:
Raise Thou me heav’nward, O Pow’r of my pow’r.
Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.
High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heav’n's Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.
Songs sampled in this episode:
Verse 1: Be Thou My Vision by Audrey Assad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Optrm7lF16s
Verse 2: Be Thou My Vision by Nathan Pacheco Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihJAJA4ibEs
Verse 3: Be Thou My Vision (feat. Stuart Townend & Robin Mark) (Live) by The Mandate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lgeOLmoNIY
Verse 4 [and a bit at the end]: Be Thou My Vision by Keith & Kristyn Getty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZBOSfiH8Rk
Verse 5: Be Thou My Vision (Live) by The Petersens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwwWMWTpp-U
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In addition to reviewing the song 'To the Cross I Cling' by Matt Boswell, Colin and Tyler discuss how Christian music should handle the idea of guilt and the gospels forensic aspects.
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In 1876, Horatio Spafford published the first version of this hymn. In this episode, we dig deep into the story behind the lyrics. We then contemplate the rich theology of the song.
Songs sampled in this episode:
It is Well with my Soul by Grace Community Church: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h32qcka7DW0
It is Well by Redeemer Presbyterian Church: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tQiLIFPFI0
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Colin and Tyler discuss the ideas of adoption and belonging in 'You Made Us Your Own'--a song released by Sovereign Grace Music and authored by Bob Kauflin, Steve Cook and Vikki Cook. There is also some discussion of recent tweets by Kevin DeYoung.
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This week, a hymn of unity and communion is our topic of conversation. Samuel J. Stone published this hymn in response to some doctrinal controversy as part of a compendium of songs on the Apostles' Creed called Lyra Fidelium (the lyre of the faithful), linked below. The Church's One Foundation is a meditation on the ninth article of the Apostles' Creed: "...[I believe] in the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints..." The lyrics describe a Church battered by schisms, heresies, and spiritual warfare, yet held securely by Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus Christ is worshiped abundantly in this song: He is referred to as the Foundation, the Husband, the Creator, the Redeemer, the Defender, the Guide, the Sustainer, and The Lord of the Church.
Manley's version (with his permission) is appended to the end of this episode as it is not available online.
Stone's original lyrics in Lyra Fidelium (with cross-references): http://lyra-fidelium.faithweb.com/9lyra-thechurch.html
Songs sampled in this episode:
(1) The Church's One Foundation by Christ Church Bellingham https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKRmncbUMps
(2) The Church's One Foundation by Indelible Grace: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j44-l71jTFI
(3) The Church's One Foundation by Chris Manley and Nathan Partain
(4) The Church's One Foundation by Reawaken Hymns https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2ScAzkpqbs
Lyrics:
The Church’s one foundation
Is Jesus Christ her Lord,
She is His new creation
By water and the Word:
From heaven He came and sought her
To be His holy bride,
With His own blood He bought her
And for her life He died.
She is from every nation
Yet one o'er all the earth,
Her charter of salvation
One Lord, one faith, one birth,
One Holy Name she blesses,
Partakes one Holy Food,
And to one Hope she presses
With every grace endued.
The Church shall never perish!
Her dear Lord to defend,
To guide, sustain, and cherish,
Is with her to the end:
Though there be those who hate her,
And false sons in her pale,
Against a foe or traitor
She ever shall prevail.
Though with a scornful wonder
Men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder
By heresies distressed:
Yet saints their watch are keeping,
Their cry goes up “How long?”
And soon the night of weeping
shall be the morn of song!
'Mid toil and tribulation
And tumult of her war,
She waits the consummation
Of peace forevermore;
Till, with the vision glorious,
Her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious
Shall be the Church at rest!
Yet she on earth hath union
With God the Three in One,
And mystic sweet communion
With those whose rest is won,
With all her sons and daughters
Who, by the Master's Hand
Led through the deathly waters,
Repose in Eden-land.
O happy ones and holy!
Lord, give us grace that we
Like them, the meek and lowly,
On high may dwell with Thee:
There, past the border mountains,
Where in sweet vales the Bride
With Thee by living fountains
For ever shall abide!
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We often say that it would be best if churches found ways to sing scripture. This week's song--'Preserve Me O God'--is exactly that. Here Matthew David Montgomery digs directly into the well-used 'blue' psalter (The Book of Psalms for Worship) for an adaptation of Psalm 16.
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This week, you're guaranteed to recognize the tune! TwoForChrist, a ministry of married couple Nick and Haley Gaglione, recently uploaded a live rendition of their cover of Survivor's Eye of the Tiger. The lyrics have been mostly swapped out for novel, motivational Christian lyrics. While the performance has found a lot of attention online, we have yet to see anyone address the song's message. We set out to investigate the lyrics.
"Eye of the Tiger" by Two for Christ presents us with the opportunity to discuss how sincerity is demonstrated among Christians, and how this demonstration has changed over time. We also look at the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:11), how Christians can cause the devil to flee (James 4:7), and what benefits await those who overcome (Revelation 3).
Eye of the Tiger (Christian Cover): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfO9UoHi-vI
Full performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GadkeBxcyd4&t=0s
Lift with Christ: https://liftwithchrist.org/
Lyrics:
LYRICS
Rising up, back on my feet
Got knocked down, rose above it
Went the distance, I don’t take no defeat
I will thrive, I will not just survive
Listen—Before I was a Christian something was missing
Felt a little distant, dark, resistant
Made a decision—got a new vision
Wrote my goals, yeah wrote my mission
B.C. I was aimlessly walking
Then one day I heard the voice of God talking:
“Rise up, child, to the enemy mocking
Prayer is your weapon, pray without stopping!”
It's the eye of the tiger—It's the thrill of the fight
Rising up to the challenge of our rival
With the heart of a lion & the armor of God
You will conquer it all with the eye of the tiger
Face to face with Satan himself
Don’t budge an inch, he’ll take miles
He’ll find your weakness, he will hit where it hurts
Stand your ground—make him run for the hills
It's the eye of the tiger—It's the thrill of the fight
Rising up to the challenge of our rival
If you cast all your cares on Him & pray through the night
You will conquer it all with the eye of the tiger
Rising up straight to the top
Fight for Christ, give Him glory
Go the distance, don’t retreat, never stop
For the Lord always wins in the end
It's the eye of the tiger—It's the thrill of the fight
Rising up to the challenge of our rival
With the heart of a lion & the armor of God
You will conquer it all with the eye… of the tiger
Keep your eyes on God
And your heart in the word
Be a leader in Christ
Don’t follow with the herd
The eye of the tiger
Always walk by faith
Never walk by sight
With the armor of God
You’ll never lose the fight
The eye of the tiger
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Was Mary 'blameless'? How does the High Street Hymns' version of 'Creator of the Stars of Night' compare to the 19th century translation, or that Latin original for that matter?
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Who would have thought that a poem set to the tune "Greensleeves" (A Newe Northen Dittye of ye Ladye Greene Sleves) would become one of the most popular Christmas hymns? What is with all of the rhetorical questions anyway? In this episode, we revisit the question of singing angels (with more prooftexts). We also dig into the gifts brought the infant Christ (frankincense, gold, myrrh) to find Old Testament symbols.
Lyrics:
What Child is this who laid to rest on Mary’s lap is sleeping,
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet while shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing!
Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the babe, the son of Mary!
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh; come peasant, King to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings; let loving hearts enthrone Him
Raise, raise a a song on high! The virgin sings her lullaby
Joy, joy for Christ is born, the babe, the son of Mary!
Nails, spears shall pierce Him through; the cross He bore for me, for you!
Hail, hail the Word made flesh, the babe, the son of Mary!
Further reading:
Hymnary.org notes and versions: https://hymnary.org/text/what_child_is_this_who_laid_to_rest
Audio Sampled in this Episode:
1 - What Child is This? Chris Tomlin ft. All Sons & Daughters - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzDxDv2WLMc
2 - Linus' Christmas Monologue - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eff0cqYefYY
3 - Royal Choral Society sings Hallelujah Chorus (from Handel's Messiah) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUZEtVbJT5c
4 - Bishop T.D. Jakes preaches at First Baptist Church of Glenarden https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bP-pEViFUQQ
Other noteworthy versions:
1 - Vocal Spectrum performs What Child is This? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U70xshi06Ls
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This week, Colin and Tyler engage the most pressing question in all of Christian history: did the angels that announced Jesus birth sing? Yes, we went there. Listen to the review of Zach William's version of the classic "Go Tell It On the Mountain".
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We are continuing our series on Christmas/Advent music. This week's episode discusses a poem by Ambrose of Milan, translated into German by Martin Luther, translated into English by William M. Reynolds. After crying out for the advent of the Savior, "Savior of the Nations, Come" invites us to marvel at the wonder of Christ's birth and the hypostatic union, to sing in awe at our King's great triumph over death and hell, and to offer praise to the three Persons of the Godhead.
English lyrics used in this episode:
1 Savior of the nations, come;
virgin's Son, make here your home.
Marvel now, O heav'n and earth,
that the Lord chose such a birth.
2 Not by human flesh and blood,
by the spirit of our God
was the Word of God made flesh,
woman's offspring, pure and fresh.
3 Wondrous birth! O wondrous Child
of the virgin undefiled,
though by all the world disowned,
still to be in heav'n enthroned.
4 From the Father's throne he came
and ascended to the same,
captive leading death and hell.
High the song of triumph swell!
5 Praise to God the Father sing,
praise to God the Son, our King,
praise to God the Spirit be
ever and eternally.
Modernized German (Luther's) text with a good translation:
https://www.bach-cantatas.com/Texts/Chorale016-Eng3.htm
Latin (Ambrose's) text with a good translation:
https://www.cpdl.org/wiki/index.php/Veni_redemptor_gentium
More about this text and tune:
Hymnary.org: https://hymnary.org/text/savior_of_the_nations_come_virgins_son
Music used in this podcast:
Stanza 1: Concordia Publishing House: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKO-C5NTNvA
Stanza 2: Chris Brunelle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iP_4YN7aRuM
Stanza 3: David Tolk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWFyqYl57ec
Stanza 4: Koiné: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsNPi71O7FI
Stanza 5: David Tolk
Other noteworthy versions:
Cardiphonia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol78eWbhE1o
Other notes:
We also briefly sample "So Fresh So Clean" by Outkast (C) 2000
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How important are verbs in a song? What does it mean to celebrate Christmas in worship? Colin and Tyler think through these issues as they consider 'Born Is The King (It's Christmas)' by Hillsong.
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This week we're going through the lyrics of We Have Been Healed by Sovereign Grace Music. This song describes a "glorious exchange": all our sin for God's grace. What a concept to rejoice over and meditate on! Also, we read and discuss some of the Scriptural references in this song.
Song URL: https://sovereigngracemusic.org/music/songs/we-have-been-healed/
VERSE 1You bore our sins in Your body
As You were hung on a tree
So we might die to rebellion
And live for Him who set us free
VERSE 2You were mocked and reviled
Suffering in our place
Trusting all to Your Father
So enemies could know Your grace
CHORUSWe have been healed, justified
Made alive in the life of Christ
Righteous blood covers every sin
Risen Lamb, heaven’s light
Crucified and now alive
In Your love, You have drawn us in
VERSE 3Like straying sheep we were wandering
Destitute and alone
You sought us out like a Shepherd
You carried us and brought us home
BRIDGEAll our sin for Your grace
What a glorious exchange
All our sin for Your grace
What a glorious exchange
All our sin for Your grace
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One of the earliest protestant songs in history, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" was recently updated by the Gettys and Tommy Bailey. Tyler and Colin review this song lyric by lyric.
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This week, as a part of our new Excellent Songs series, we're looking at Caroline Cobb's "The Passover Song." This song draws on two Biblical narratives at the same time: the liberation of Israel from slavery in Egypt through the Passover, and the salvation of sinful humans by Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.
Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VjILH2YNUc
Caroline Cobb: https://www.carolinecobb.com/
Song Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiAUuroWHEo
Lyrics (and other details from Caroline Cobb's bandcamp; edits marked in square brackets):
Words and music by Caroline Cobb and Sean Carter
Written January 11-14, 2013
Exodus 12 (See also John 1:29, Hebrews 10:20)
There’s a promise in our veins
But it’s faded by all these years in chains
Send a prophet, send the plagues
That by sunrise we will no more be slaves
Take the lamb, take the blood
And paint it on our doorways
At night death will come but pass us by
This is all our hope and peace
In the morning we will rise
Taste the freedom we thought we’d never find
We will dance now in the streets
Once held captive now we shall live as kings
Lift your head, your voice
And sing of your salvation
Of the blood of the lamb that gave us life
Now by this we’ll overcome
Now by this we’ll reach our home
There’s a poison in our veins
And it leads to death we cannot escape
Send a ransom a perfect Son
Remedy the curse with [sung: by] His precious blood
And the Lamb that will come
His cross will be our doorway
And the red of His blood [sung: it w]ill make us white
And [sung: the] daughters and sons
Rejoice in resurrection
And death swallowed up in endless life
Glory, glory this I sing
All my praise for this I bring
Naught of good that I have done
Nothing but the blood of Jesus
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This week, we look back on series five and examine the Dove Award winners of the last ten years. It turns out almost all of them have very similar tempos! Colin & Tyler then turn to discuss the new direction the podcast is taking.
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The second of a two-part discussion on what distinguishes 'great' worship songs. We talk about what makes a song singable and congregational, as well as share concerns about distracting music.
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The first of a two-part discussion on what distinguishes 'great' worship songs. This part consider objective versus subjective truth, the presence of scripture as well as the gospel.
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When during the year should we sing about the incarnation? Should we refer to Christ as the Church's "lover"? Colin and Tyler, along with guest host Daniel J. Mount of the Expository Songs Project, discuss these questions and many more as we evaluate the song "From the Squalor of a Borrowed Stable" by Stuart Townend.
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This week we're joined by Daniel Mount, a songwriter, worship leader and veteran of the Christian music industry. Daniel has compiled a database of tens of thousands of hymns and worship songs, The Expository Songs Project. Rather than being arranged, thematically, songs are listed under chapters of the Bible, and are included in the project if they exposit or reference that passage. We also discuss the songwriting industry and the way lyrics have changed since the Second Great Awakening.
Daniel's Website: https://danielmount.com/
The Expository Songs Project: https://danielmount.com/expository-songs/
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Why do bad things happen to good people? The song 'Unfinished' by Mandisha explores weighty themes like this. In addition to reviewing the song, Tyler and Colin also engage in a side discussion on the work of Sufjan Stevens.
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This week Artur and Caitlin (S05.E21) join us to talk about "Gewagte Liebe", a German version of Reckless Love. How will this translation hold up compared to the original? What is cat theology? In what way is this song like a Coke Zero? Tune in to find out.
Verse 1: Bevor ich ein Wort sprach, sangst du Lieder über mich. Du warst schon immer gut zu mir. Du hast mich geformt, mir Leben eingehaucht. Du warst schon immer gut zu mir.
Refrain: Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. Oh du kämpfst für mich und spürst mich auf Lässt 99 stehn, Ich weiß genau das ich‘s nicht verdient hab, doch du gibst dich für mich hin. Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. (Yeaahh, Ohohoho)
Verse 2: Ich war noch dein Feind, doch du hast gekämpft für mich. Du warst schon immer gut zu mir. Ich war mir nichts wert, doch du hast bezahlt für mich. Du warst schon immer gut zu mir.
Refrain: Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. Oh du kämpfst für mich und spürst mich auf Lässt 99 stehn, Ich weiß genau das ich‘s nicht verdient hab doch du gibst dich für mich hin. Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. (Yeaaaaah!, Jesus!)
Bridge: Du erleuchtest alle Schatten, erklimmst alle Berge, um mir nach zu gehn. Du Zerstörst alle Mauern, vertreibst alle Lügen, um mir nach zu gehn. Du erleuchtest alle Schatten, erklimmst alle Berge, um mir nach zu gehn. Du Zerstörst alle Mauern, vertreibst alle Lügen, um mir nach zu gehn. (Yeaahh) Du erleuchtest alle Schatten, erklimmst alle Berge, um mir nach zu gehn. (Jesus!) Du Zerstörst alle Mauern, vertreibst alle Lügen, um mir nach zu gehn. (Jesus) Du erleuchtest alle Schatten, erklimmst alle Berge, um mir nach zu gehn. Du Zerstörst alle Mauern, vertreibst alle Lügen, um mir nach zu gehn.
Refrain: Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. Oh du kämpfst für mich und spürst mich auf Lässt 99 stehn, Und ich weiß genau das ich‘s nicht verdient hab doch du gibst dich für mich hin. Oh wie endlos überwältigend gewagt ist wie du liebst. Yeaahhh
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Artur and Caitlin are a church-planting couple from Germany. In this interview, we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities they face--and also their perspective on worship music.
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Have we got a show for you! This week we're looking at Only Jesus by Casting Crowns: nominated for a GMA Dove award in 2019 and a Grammy in 2020, this song emphasizes that Jesus is the only name to be remembered. Frontman and songwriter says: "The more I think about it the more I'm reminded that anything in me that's worth remembering are the things that Jesus has worked on, and is still working on in me. On my own I have nothing to offer the world, but Jesus does - so don't mind me. Jesus is the only name to remember."
[Verse 1]
Make it count, leave a mark, build a name for yourself
Dream your dreams, chase your heart, above all else
Make a name the world remembers
But all an empty world can sell is empty dreams
I got lost in the lie that it was up to me
To make a name the world remembers
But Jesus is the only name to remember
[Chorus]
And I-I-I, I don't want to leave a legacy
I don't care if they remember me
Only Jesus
And I-I-I, I've only got one life to live
I'll let every second point to Him
Only Jesus
[Verse 2]
All the kingdoms built, all the trophies won
Will crumble into dust when it's said and done
'Cause all that really matters
Did I live the truth to the ones I love?
Was my life the proof that there is only One
Whose name will last forever?
[Chorus]
And I-I-I, I don't want to leave a legacy
I don't care if they remember me
Only Jesus
And I-I-I, I've only got one life to live
I'll let every second point to Him
Only Jesus
[Interlude]
[Bridge]
Jesus is the only name, Jesus is the only name
Jesus is the only name to remember, ooh
Jesus is the only name, Jesus is the only name
Jesus is the only name to remember
[Chorus]
And I-I-I, I don't want to leave a legacy
I don't care if they remember me
Only Jesus
And I-I-I, I've only got one life to live
I'll let every second point to Him
Only Jesus
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In this episode, Colin and Tyler examine the lyrics of "There Was Jesus" by Zach Williams and Dolly Parton.
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"Holy Water" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Christian charts. Its eponymous album rose to #4 on Billboard's top Christian albums charts. In addition to winning the GMA Dove award for Pop/Contemporary album of the year, this album also received a Grammy for top Christian album of the year. This week we're taking a deep dive into the lyrics and talking about the concept of holy water in the Bible and in various Christian traditions. We also discuss the idea of "improving upon" one's "baptism" and how the lyrics of this song may be influenced by the psalms.
Lyric video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0xhhG1Hyos
Dr. Todd Grande's video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMkrosLHIEs
Lyrics:
God, I'm on my knees again
God, I'm begging please again
I need You
Oh, I need You
Walking down these desert roads
Water for my thirsty soul
I need You
Oh, I need You
Your forgiveness
Is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips
Like the sound of a symphony to my ears
Like holy water on my skin, hey!
Dead man walking, slave to sin
I wanna know about being born again
I need You
Oh, God, I need You
So, take me to the riverside
Take me under, baptize
I need You
Oh, God, I need You, oh-oh
I don't wanna abuse Your grace
God, I need it every day
It's the only thing that ever really
Makes me wanna change
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Dave Seip of King's Way Talk joins Tyler and Colin to discuss the popular song "Chain Breaker" by Zach Williams.
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This week Dave from Kings Way Talk joins us for an encouraging conversation about worship music, lyrical content of church music, and the tuba. Dave is a podcaster and blogger and a member of his church's preaching team. We discuss the concept of churches "banning" certain publishers outright, the importance of the individual conscience in leading music, and caution against throwing babies out with bathwater.
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This week Colin and Tyler, along with guest host Nathan Partain--worship leader, pastor and musician at Redeemer Indianapolis--talk through the lyrics of award winning song 'All My Hope'.
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Nathan Partain of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis, is a worship leader and ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church of America. Aside from leading his congregation's music ministry, Nathan is engaged in songwriting and has a long history recording and producing msuci, particularly, though not exclusively, Christian worship music for the local church. Nathan shares about his journey to leading the music ministry at Redeemer and we discuss his role as a guardian of God's worship there. We find out what is being guarded and from what it is being guarded. We learn about "Becky", whose sensibilities may still guide the Christian music industry's choices, to some degree. Nathan offers some guidance on keeping one's ego in check through vulnerability and honesty, and humbly shares how some aspects of worship leading might be difficult for certain people to handle. The 'singability' and lyrical clarity of songs is also discussed, and we conclude by giving thanks for the ability to have thoughtful conversations about worship music.
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This week we hold a wide ranging interview with Jill of all trades, Kerry Baldwin--researcher, philosopher and reformed Christian. She gained notoriety from her pro-life arguments in her debate against eminent economist Walter Block. We discuss Kerry's unique background and experience with worship music. We also muse about men and women singing in the church, among other issues.
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Dave joins us again for a collaborative review of Keith & Kristyn Getty's "Christ is Risen, He is Risen Indeed." Dave is a musician and elder from Northern Ireland who produces music for the church under the name "KDMusic". In this episode, we have the pleasure of contemplating the account of Jesus' resurrection in the Gospel of John and seeing how it informs the text of this song. We also look at numerous other passages which appear to have been considered during the composition of this song. The distinction between contemplative and didactic songs is mentioned and we discuss where this song fits in on that scale.
Apologies for Tyler's audio in this week's episode. I was travelling and away from my typical setup!
Listen to KDMusic for Scripture-rich worship songs: https://kdmusic.co.uk/
Official lyric video for this song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX-Xt-vBYPc
Listen to Keith & Kristyn Getty talk about this song and the songwriting process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_UKkoMhxtQ
Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
How can it be, the One who died
Has borne our sin through sacrifice
To conquer every sting of death?
Sing, sing Hallelujah
For joy awakes as dawning light
When Christ’s disciples lift their eyes
Alive He stands, their Friend and King
Christ, Christ He is risen
[Chorus]
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed!
Oh, sing Hallelujah
Join the chorus, sing with the redeemed
Christ is risen, He is risen indeed
[Verse 2]
Where doubt and darkness once had been
They saw Him and their hearts believed
But blessed are those who have not seen
Yet, sing Hallelujah
Once bound by fear now bold in faith
They preached the truth and power of grace
And pouring out their lives they gained
Life, life everlasting
[Bridge]
The power that raised Him from the grave
Now works in us to powerfully save
He frees our hearts to live His grace
Go tell of His goodness
[Outro]
He is risen, He's alive
He's alive
Heaven's gates are open wide
He's alive, He's alive
Now in Heaven glorified
He's alive, He's alive
Heaven's gates are open wide
He's alive, He's alive
Now in Heaven glorified
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Dave Whitcroft is a worship leader, pastor/elder and musician in Northern Ireland. This wide-ranging interview covers Dave's music, what is means to make "the church the lead singer", how to balance new songs and old songs in church music as well as other issues both local and global in contemporary Christian worship music.
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We are back with a Rend Collective song! Joined by Mike Tapper and Marc Jolicoeur of Series 5, Episode 9 and the study of worship music longevity "Worship at the Speed of Sound", our hosts take a look at the lyrics of Counting Every Blessing. Our conversation explores the use of different verb tenses for the different states of the human experience in salvation, and we praise the song for actually naming blessings to be counted! There is a small square off about the phrase "good to me" (and a look back at Good, Good Father by Chris Tomlin). Looking at the practice of borrowing verbiage from classic hymns, we discuss a possible trend in modern worship music to recall and reclaim feelings of tradition in the 21st century.
Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82b0Tiy0ykk
Song story: https://www.jubileecast.com/articles/19855/20180810/rend-collective-earns-second-consecutive-top-10-with-counting-every-blessing.htm
Lyrics:
I was blind, now I'm seeing in colour
I was dead, now I'm living forever
I had failed, but You were my Redeemer
I've been blessed beyond all measure
I was lost, now I'm found by the Father
I've been changed from a ruin to treasure
I've been given a hope and a future
I've been blessed beyond all measure
I am counting every blessing, counting every blessing
Letting go and trusting when I cannot see
I am counting every blessing, counting every blessing
Surely every season You are good to me
Oh-oh-ooh, oh-oh-ooh-oooh (You are good to me)
Oh-oh-ooh, oh-oh-ooh-oooh (You are good to me)
You were there in the valley of shadows
You were there in the depth of my sorrows
You're my strength, my hope for tomorrow
I've been blessed beyond all measure
Surely Your goodness pursues me
Surely Your heart is still for me
I will remember Your mercies all my days
Through every storm and gale
For Your goodness, I will ever praise You
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
are good to me
Sing it out now
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
In my hurting
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
I'll sing it loud
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
Even in the dark
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
Lift your voices
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
All the time
Oh-oh-ooh (You are good to me)
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Mike Tapper and Marc Jolicoeur join us to share the results of their recent study, Worship at the Speed of Sound. Data from decades of CCLI rankings show the following trends:
- Worship music has a shorter lifespan on the charts now than 30 years ago
- Worship music hits the charts at higher levels than 30 years ago
- Worship songs peter out more quickly than 30 years ago
- Worship songs are entering the charts much sooner after release than previously
https://worshipleader.com/culture/worship-at-the-speed-of-sound/
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Jason joins us once again to talk about Famous For (I Believe) by Tauren Wells ft. Jenn Johnson. On this episode, in addition to discussing the lyrics of this song (for example, "God of exceedingly"), we also have the opportunity to ask Jason some pastoral questions about worship music generally. We talk about pastoral introductions and explanations of songs, the difference between a congregational song and a performative song, and having "cruciform" worship.
Read more about Jason's Book "The Name" and the Identity Mapping program: https://identity-mapping.com/about/
Lyric Video for this song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o15X2yZ1LT8
Lyrics:
There is no fear 'cause I believe
There is no doubt 'cause I have seen
Your faithfulness, my fortress
Over and over
I have a hope found in Your name
I have a strength found in Your grace
Your faithfulness, my fortress
Over and over
Make way through the waters
Walk me through the fire
Do what You are famous for
What You are famous for
Shut the mouths of lions
Bring dry bones to life and
Do what You are famous for
What You are famous for
I believe in You
God, I believe in You
Release Your love inside of me
Unleash Your power for all to see
Spirit, come, and fall on us
Over and over, oh Lord
God of exceedingly, God of abundantly
More than we ask or think, Lord, You will never fail
Your name is powerful, Your word's unstoppable
All things are possible in You
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Jason Dorsey--pastor and artist based in Redmond (Seattle), Washington--talks about pastoral oversight of worship and the Psalms as a pattern for organizing worship. He also shares some aspects of worship music he finds troubling and why he describes himself as "chief worship leader" of his church.
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This week, Vince (from The Berean Test) rejoins us to talk about "Together" by forKING&COUNTRY, a song which was nominated for a GMA Dove Award in 2021.
Lyrics:
Oh oh oh oh oh
This is for the busted hearts
This is for the question marks
This is for the outcast soul
Lost control, no one knows
Sing it for the can't-go-back
Sing it for the broken past
Sing it for the just found out
Life is now upside down
If you're looking for hope tonight, raise your hand
If you're feeling alone and don't understand
If you're fighting in the fight of your life, then stand
We're going to make it through this hand in hand
And if we fall, we will fall together
Together
This is for the second chance
This is for the new romance
Sing it for the loved in vain, overcame
It's not too late
If you're looking for hope tonight, raise your hand
If you're feeling alone and don't understand
If you're fighting in the fight of your life, then stand
We're going to make it through this hand in hand
And if we fall, we will fall together
Together
When we rise, we will rise together
Together
Ohhh ohhh ohhh ohhh
(We will rise together)
(Listen)
If you're looking for hope tonight
(And you're all alone)
If you're feeling alone tonight
(Can you feel)
If you're in the fight of your life
(I can promise)
We're gonna make it happen, yeah
I will be by your side
(By your side)
Cause love's in the air tonight
(Can you feel it)
Come up and see the light
Whenever ever ever
Just as long as we're together, say
If we fall, we will fall together
(I got you my brother)
Together
(I see you my sister)
When we rise, we will rise together
Together
If we fall, we will fall together
(Take my hand)
Together
(Help me stand)
When we rise, we will rise together
(We will rise together)
Together
Together we are dangerous
Together with our differences
Together we are bolder, braver, stronger
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Vince founded and runs thebereantest.org--a Christian music review website which publishes several reviews a week. The Berean Test also features an active community of thoughtful commenters. Colin, Tyler and Vince discuss Vince's story, the challenges of evaluating music in the church and some common problems in the genre.
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This week, we take a deep dive into the lyrics of "So Will I (100 Billion X)" by Hillsong Worship. This song rose to prominence—and controversy—in 2018 after its April release. There is so much to discuss in these lyrics! We talk about creation, the breath of life, God's promises, the atonement and salvation.
Christian Post article: https://www.christianpost.com/news/hillsongs-joel-houston-clarifies-evolution-views-after-sparking-debate-with-worship-song-so-will-i.html
Lyrics:
Verse 1:
God of creation
There at the start
Before the beginning of time
With no point of reference
You spoke to the dark
And fleshed out the wonder of light
Chorus 1:
And as You speak
A hundred billion galaxies are born
In the vapour of Your breath the planets form
If the stars were made to worship so will I
I can see Your heart in everything You’ve made
Every burning star
A signal fire of grace
If creation sings Your praises so will I
Verse 2:
God of Your promise
You don’t speak in vain
No syllable empty or void
For once You have spoken
All nature and science
Follow the sound of Your voice
Chorus 2:
And as You speak
A hundred billion creatures catch Your breath
Evolving in pursuit of what You said
If it all reveals Your nature so will I
I can see Your heart in everything You say
Every painted sky
A canvas of Your grace
If creation still obeys You so will I
Bridge:
If the stars were made to worship so will I
If the mountains bow in reverence so will I
If the oceans roar Your greatness so will I
For if everything exists to lift You high so will I
If the wind goes where You send it so will I
If the rocks cry out in silence so will I
If the sum of all our praises still falls shy
Then we’ll sing again a hundred billion times
Verse 3:
God of salvation
You chased down my heart
Through all of my failure and pride
On a hill You created
The light of the world
Abandoned in darkness to die
Chorus 3:
And as You speak
A hundred billion failures disappear
Where You lost Your life so I could find it here
If You left the grave behind You so will I
I can see Your heart in everything You’ve done
Every part designed in a work of art called love
If You gladly chose surrender so will I
I can see Your heart
Eight billion different ways
Every precious one
A child You died to save
If You gave Your life to love them so will I
Tag:
Like You would again a hundred billion times
But what measure could amount to Your desire
You’re the One who never leaves the one behind
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Stephen is a former worship leader from Billings, Montana in the United States. He is co-host of the Ravel and Know Normal People podcasts, as well as being founder and CEO of the Highline Media Network. We have a wide ranging discussion about the church, Christian music and Stephen's own story as a church musician and worship leader.
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David from the Goldsmith Odyssey is back to help Colin and Tyler in their review of Jireh by Elevation Worship and Maverick City, feat. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine.
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This week, we tackle some challenging issues with our guest David from The Goldsmith Odyssey podcast. David is an independent filmmaker, writer, and Christian thinker. Together we discuss the significance of truth in worship, the formulaic nature of much modern worship music, the interaction of popular culture and Christian faith, the experiencing of art on its own terms, and music as a delivery mechanism for ideas.
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Tyler and Colin reflect on series four and some of the issues which arose over the past six months. We discuss the problem of vagueness in worship music, the pursuit of mystery and changes in our ratings of songs.
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Tyler and Colin reflect on series four and some of the issues which arose over the past six months. We talk about the terms "worship leader" and "evangelical," the stating of doing things without the doing of the things stated, and discuss listener feedback.
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This is the big one. Colin and Tyler take on the popular song "Oceans" by Hillsong line by line, evaluating how it compares with Scripture.
Lyric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw
Song story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zlbunWsV5A&t=52s
Drum solo discussed at end of podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xY-Lx8_fN0
You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep my faith will stand
I will call upon Your Name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine
Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You’ve never failed and You won’t start now
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Saviour
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This song is something of a staple in every worship leader's toolkit. But what exactly is it about? This week, we take a deep dive into Paul Baloche's "Open The Eyes of My Heart", a song which transforms Paul's prayer for the Ephesian church into a direct petition to God by the believer. We talk about this passage, the description of God's perfect holiness, and the various senses in which Christ Jesus is high and lifted up. Perhaps you've come to this song through Baloche or heard one of the many covers by Michael W. Smith or Phillips, Craig & Dean or Randy Travis. Whatever your path to this tune, we hope you will enjoy our careful discussion of its lyrics.
Story behind the song: http://www.praisecharts.com/blog/story-behind-open-the-eyes-of-my-heart/
Lyrics:
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You
To see you high and lifted up
Shining in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
I want to see You
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Well, Wickham did not promise 10,000 Great Things, so he's ahead of the eight ball. But should a song claim "You free every captive and break every chain"? Colin and Tyler discuss the pros and cons of Phil Wickham's "Great Things".
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What happens when an ancient priestly blessing is set to contemporary Christian worship music? And what does it mean for the congregation to take part in the utterance of a blessing? Tune in to hear this week's discussion!
The Lord bless you
And keep you
Make His face shine upon you
And be gracious to you
The Lord turn His
Face toward you
And give you peace
Amen, amen, amen
Amen, amen, amen
May His favor be upon you
And a thousand generations
And your family and your children
And their children, and their children
May His presence go before you
And behind you, and beside you
All around you, and within you
He is with you, He is with you
In the morning, in the evening
In your coming, and your going
In your weeping, and rejoicing
He is for you, He is for you
He is for you, He is for you
He is for you, He is for you
He is for you, He is for you
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What happens when John 3:16 gets set to music? Colin and Tyler discuss the heterodox view annihilationism as well as the challenging topic of singing about addictions in this weeks review of "God So Loved" by We The Kingdom.
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Does God "unravel us with a melody"? Does Jesus' "blood flow through our veins"? Bethel got quite creative with "No Longer Slaves" and Colin and Tyler reflect on whether lines such as these stand up to biblical muster.
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This song is about a person who needs Christ every hour. On this episode we examine the lyrics of the song and discuss various scriptural passages. We discuss the theme of the Christian finding rest in Christ, being called holy because of Christ, and the active defense of the believer that Christ's intercession provides. There are also several "shout-outs" to older hymns in this song, which we also explore.
Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuvfMDhTyMA
Behind the Song interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjJ9WaYCmVk
Maher's old bio: https://web.archive.org/web/20090123092601/http://mattmahermusic.com/bio.php
Maher's new bio: https://www.mattmahermusic.com/about/
Lyrics:
Lord, I come, I confess
Bowing here I find my rest
Without You I fall apart
You're the One that guides my heart
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
Where sin runs deep Your grace is more
Where grace is found is where You are
Where You are, Lord, I am free
Holiness is Christ in me
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
So teach my song to rise to You
When temptation comes my way
When I cannot stand I'll fall on You
Jesus, You're my hope and stay
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
You're my one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
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Join Tyler and Colin as we discuss a song by an organization called CityAlight. CityAlight is part of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney, Australia, and seeks to write songs which are biblically rich and also sing-able. Tune in to hear our thoughts on the lyrics of this song. We also discuss this song's use of metaphor, the careful play on Christian turns of phrase, and the all-sufficiency of Christ.
Tim Challies' interview with CityAlight: https://www.challies.com/interviews/get-to-know-cityalight-and-their-new-album/
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This week, Colin and Tyler consider a newer song by the Gettys which marvels at the incarnation and encourages the church to "tell the world" about Christ's advent. The hosts discuss the past, present and future significance of the incarnation and, at one point, a robot children's choir.
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Merry Christmas! This week's episode looks at a newer song which is popular among churches in America. In the course of our discussion, we look at the many metaphors used in this song and investigate what these metaphors might be saying about God and about the life of the Christian.
Lyrics: https://hillsong.com/lyrics/seasons/
Music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QaEx2A7p9Dk
Song background information and story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9VK0ymATzs
Brand new rendition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy8zb88ZXwE
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What is the "dayspring"? What is the "Key of David"? The song "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" provokes a rich discussion of these sorts of questions, but also some comments on Milli Vanilli.
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Like many advent hymns, this song ponders the first coming of Christ while looking earnestly toward the second coming. Tune in to hear our discussion of the prophecies surrounding Christ's birth, the prevalence of the King James Version of the Bible in so many hymns, and the multiple meanings of "Israel".
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Our Christmas special continues as we look at a new version of 'O Come All Ye Faithful' and discuss whether Jesus is the 'King of Angels', the songs missing second verse and time travel.
Here is a link to the 'missing' verse:
https://hymnary.org/hymn/CWH2021/354
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Once again we are looking at Christmas music on the Worship Review. This week we discuss the Advent Police, the concept of Original Sin, the hypostatic union, post-processing of audio, and another telltale sign of Christian music enunciation. We also look at the word noël more closely and identify some other words which are permitted only in Christmas music.
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Did the angels roar when Christ rose again? Was Christ's body "drenched in tears"? How should worship songs handle material that can be inferred from scripture, but is nevertheless absent in scripture? We tackle these issues and more in our review of "O Praise The Name (Anástasis)" by Hillsong. (Apologies for a breakdown with the audio equipment)
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This week we take a look at the story behind Passion's "Glorious Day" and discuss the themes and content of the song. The text borrows much from scripture, which benefits the song greatly. The problem of sin is described experientially in multiple ways before being named explicitly in the lyrics. For some reason, Colin won't stop singing the Beatles.
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What happens when scripture is put into song near verbatim? We discuss the song "Jesus Messiah" on this week's The Worship Review.
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This week on the Worship Review, the team discusses Elevation Worship's "Do It Again," which is based on a sermon Pastor Steven Furtick preached on the Israelite conquest of the walled city of Jericho. In doing so, we engage a number of topics, including: our observation that this band tends to write songs based on Furtick's sermons, the use of genre-internal clichés and tropes, including Christianese expressions, and the importance of undergirding assertions with evidence.
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It is problematic to say "here I am" more than two dozen times in a song? It is true that we will never know the cost of Christ's work on the cross? Colin and Tyler tackle a variety of questions brought up by the popular golden oldie "Here I am to Worship" by Tim Hughes.
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Matt Redman's international superhit declares that "You give and take away; my heart will choose to say: Blessed be Your name!"
In this week's episode, we look at this complex philosophy of Christian suffering, and compare it with Biblical wisdom literature (Job). We also crack wise about desert travel and solar radiation.
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What does it mean that grace is "free" and is such a characterization biblical and helpful? Can a song that uses financial/economic language still provoke a healthy and biblical response? We investigate questions like these and more in our review of "Death Was Arrested" by North Point Worship.
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"Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus," this song proclaims, but what does it tell us about him, exactly? This week we discuss: the metaphor of burdens, the significance of grammatical mood, and the oft-cited verse Romans 8:28.
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"Is He Worthy?" by Andrew Peterson is unique, both in terms of structure and style. This week, Colin and Tyler investigate its merits, drawbacks and its adherence to scripture.
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The music of Phil Wickham is once again the subject of conversation. Tune in to learn what a "chasmountain" might be! We also discuss the glorified body, similarities of this song to other content, and the true living hope of the Christian.
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What does it mean that God "turns graves into gardens"? How should a song describe what it means to find satisfaction in God? This week's episode tackles "Graves into Gardens".
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We discuss water metaphors, Christ as champion and what is required for bravery in this week's episode which reviews "You Make Me Brave" by Bethel Music.
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This episode concludes our reflection on the third season. In this episode we discuss several things: poetic licence, the engagement of the intellect in worship, and what should regulate the corporate worship of God. We respond to listener feedback. We also discuss the direction the podcast is taking.
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We wrap up season 3, and respond to listener feedback. Always fun!
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This week we discuss the final song in the third series. This song declares the singer's name to be Favour and asks for more favour and blessing. In this episode, we discuss whether God can do "too much", how annoying canned Christian responses to personal questions can be, what requirements of specificity exist in Christian music, Hebrew naming practices, and whether or not people can declare themselves to be the Favour of God.
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Catch this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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Does only "the journey" matter, and not "the endgame"? Does God not care about perfection? How do the lyrics of Cory Asbury's "The Father's House" stack up?
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Did Christ's work on the cross or his resurrection "heal our stains"? Does Christ "erase our scars"? This week, we examine a song currently near the top of the Christian charts in Uganda: 'Death Has No Power Over Me' by Jeremy Camp and Adrienne Camp.
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Phil Wickham's Hymn of Heaven describes the joy which awaits all Christians in heaven. In this episode we examine the scriptural references in this song and try to make sense of its eschatology. Colin talks about a period in ancient history called "the 90s".
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This week we evaluate "Bo Noo Ni" (No One Else) by Ghanaian worship leaders Joe Mettle and Luigi Maclean. The self-described song of testimony focuses on personal themes of gratitude and amazement at the exclusivity of God as demonstrated in His love and self-sacrifice. Tyler & Colin discuss the significance of the specificity of language. We notice several elements in this song which are derived from scripture, even if not fleshed out fully.
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Tyler and Colin investigate the song "Battle Belongs" by Phil Wickham.
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This week, we turn to the music coming out of Nigeria. How well does the song '(Olorun Agbaye) You Are Mighty' by Nathaniel Bassey stand up to scrutiny? Find out on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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This week we analyse the song trending at #1 on the UK Christian music charts: God Only Knows. In this song we learn that "there's a kind of love that God only knows" which is intended as a comfort to those suffering.
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This week, we review the top song on the US Christian/Gospel charts: "You Say" by Lauren Daigle.
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This is the wrap up for series 2. We summarize our ratings for the series and also respond to listener feedback.
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Colin and Tyler examine Casey J's remake of "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus". Theologically this song is concerned with human suffering and the need for cleansing and healing. We learn that there are many questions, but just one answer, which is somehow also a question. We postulate that the song responds to the suffering in the world by looking to Christ's sacrifice. Colin informs us what a "gospel bomb" is, and Tyler turns out to be a curmudgeon from the Silent Generation.
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Should we speak of a Christian as "condemned"? Did Jesus sweat actual blood in the Garden of Gethsemane? We examine these and other questions in this week's episode.
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This week we're taking a look at an early twentieth-century hymn recently performed by the Gettys. We discuss what it might mean for faith to "fail", what the cost of salvation is, and the Christianese phrase "faith turned to sight".
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What would it sound like if John Piper wrote half a song based on his best-selling book Desiring God and then mashed it with an old hymn? Find out in this week's episode.
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This week, we talk about a song with rich imagery from scripture. But isn't Jehovah spelled with an 'I'?
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Originally inspired by a 13th century poem, the hymn 'All Creatures of Our God and King" says quite a bit about the creatures, but not much about the creator. Is this hymn, now redone by Crowder, still worth singing? We get into it this week.
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Can a fountain teach someone how to sing? What if the fountain is really Jesus? Colin and Tyler sort it all out in this week's episode.
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Are you weary and troubled? Turn your eyes upon Jesus! But what troubles us and what exactly does it mean to turn our eyes upon Jesus? We dig into this traditional song in this week's episode.
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What do the resurrection of Christ, weddings, horror music and the Jesus Story Book Bible have in common? Trust us, you want to listen to this entire episode for the answer, as we review "In the Garden" by Alan Jackson. Horror music ©JGE Music 2020. Check out https://www.jgemusic.com/
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What is victory in Jesus and how is it achieved? This "barn burner" of a song is on the docket this week!
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What should a worshipper do when shaking, quaking and other troubling yet indefinable maladies afflict them? This song suggests the worshipper "fix my eyes on you" and then "it is well". This week, we sift through this language and others in this popular hard reboot of "It is Well".
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The lyrics that became "Jesus Paid It All" were originally written by a middle-aged woman who was struggling to pay attention in church. Now, 150 years later, a new version of the hymn enjoys widespread popularity in the church. Colin and Tyler take a close look at this hymn in this week's episode.
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It is no easy thing to convert one of the most ancient Christians creeds to music. How did Hillsong do with This I Believe (The Creed)?
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Would you like to hear what strange monsters, Arrested Development, and racism have in common with a Charles Wesley hymn? ...No? Oh. ...Sorry.
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What is the hope of despairing Christians? What does it mean that our names are written on Christ's hands and heart? This week, we dig through the many scriptural references in "Before the Throne of God Above" by Sovereign Grace.
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This week, we investigate the song 'Cornerstone' by Hillsong.
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So much metaphor! We "spin" our review of Joyful, Joyful" on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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"Abide with Me" approaches the difficult topic of death and suffering. Colin and Tyler examine this well-known Christian hymn on this weeks episode of The Worship Review.
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How does grace lead us home? Where is home? Why is mercy like a flood? On this week's episode of The Worship Review, we take on the good, the bad and the amazing in the Chris Tomlin song: "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)".
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Did "How Great Thou Art" make our souls sing? Who will shout in acclamation when Christ comes? Colin and Tyler take a long look at this popular hymn in the first episode of series two of The Worship Review.
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What did Mary know about Jesus? Should we ask such questions in Christmas songs? Colin and Tyler discuss each line of the popular Christmas tune "Mary, Did You Know?"
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Colin and Tyler (well, mostly Tyler) break down one of the world's oldest Christmas Carols: "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen".
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Who is this herald named Hark and what does he have to do with Christmas? This week, we work through one of the the most challenging Christmas songs to understand.
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What does "Let every heart prepare him room" mean? Should Joy to the World even be sung during the Advent and Christmas season? On this week's episode of The Worship Review, we take a deep dive into this popular Christmas song.
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We're taking a break from your regularly scheduled program to review Advent and Christmas songs. Check out this week's episode for Silent Night.
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With the first series in the books, we want to work through listener questions and comments in a 2-part episode. In part 2, we answer questions and criticisms about several of our takes in the first series. We'll also talk about the lessons we've learned and what we are planning for the second series, which begins next Monday.
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With the first series in the books, we want to work through listener questions and comments in a 2-part episode. In part 1, we answer these questions:
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How do we pick songs for review?
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Is there an important distinction between "worship" and "worship music", i.e. why are we called the "worship review" if we only look at worship music?
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What disqualifies a song? What needs to be included in every song? Can deficiencies be made up in the surrounding liturgy?
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Is it wrong to critique worship songs assuming that most of them were written with benign, even God-glorifying motives?
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Is it right to criticize too much individualism? Is too great an emphasis on community not also a problem?
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How can we experience God's presence? What exactly is God's presence anyway? We discuss the song "Holy Spirit" by Francesca Battistelli on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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Does "Yes I Will" have enough substance to earn our recommendation? Check out this discussion on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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What does it mean to say that Jesus "fights our battles"? Will "every chain be broken" when Christ returns? We tackle the lyrics of "Lion and the Lamb" by Bethel Music on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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In this episode, we consider the worthiness of God, whether Christians should ask God to "show me who you are" and decide that "holy guacamole" may be cultural appropriation.
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Was the God the Father or his angels in suspense before the resurrection of Christ? We discuss this and many other issues in our review of "King of Kings" by Hillsong on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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Did the father "turn his face away" from Christ? This week's episode of the The Worship Review gets into the thick of theology. We also spilled the beans about English dentistry.
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You know you love our voices, and that we have led you through the fire! Colin and Tyler evaluate "Goodness of God" by Bethel Music on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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Did "Revelation Song" by Kari Jobe leave us in wonder--awestruck wonder? Find out on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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On this episode of The Worship Review, Colin and Tyler give slightly less than 10,000 arguments about the merits and problems with 10,000 Reasons by Matt Redman.
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You've heard a thousand stories, but tune in now to hear one more take on "Good Good Father" by Chris Tomlin on this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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The wildly popular song "Way Maker" by Sinach moves into Colin and Tyler's midst--so we decided to review it! Check out this week's episode of The Worship Review.
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Does the song "King of My Heart" by Sarah McMillan put the wind in our sails, the fire in our veins? Is it our song? Find out on this week's episode of The Worship Review. Listen to the song here.
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The song "Who You Say I Am" by Hillsong is chosen, not forsaken, by the hosts of the Worship Review for this week's episode. Listen to the song here.
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In this week's episode of The Worship Review, Colin and Tyler chase down the controversies raised by the song "Reckless Love" by Cory Asbury. Listen to the song here.
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Are you hurting and broken within? Listen to this week's episode of The Worship Review. Colin and Tyler evaluate the song "O Come to the Altar" by Elevation Worship. Listen to the song here.
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In this episode, Colin and Tyler raise some concerns about the song "Raise a Hallelujah" by Bethel Music. Listen to the song here.
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In this episode, Colin and Tyler evaluate "In Christ Alone" by Stuart Townend / Keith Getty. Listen to the song here.
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In this episode, Colin and Tyler evaluate "Great Are You Lord" by All Sons & Daughters. Listen to the song here.
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In this inaugural episode of The Worship Review, we evaluate "What a Beautiful Name" by Hillsong. Listen to the song here.
SHOW NOTES:
Grace to You blog commentary on the song.
John Piper on the song.
Hillsong blog commentary.
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Check out our trailer for the new podcast: 'The Worship Review'. As former worship leaders--and now academics--we evaluate contemporary Christian music for the good of the church, to the glory of God. This podcast is meant to encourage thoughtful engagement with the words, emotions and ideas in the music sung in churches. We hope you enjoy our inaugural episode on Monday, July 13.
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