How Great Is Our God Lyrics: A Deep Dive Into The Anthem

Hey guys! If you're a fan of contemporary Christian music, chances are you've heard the powerful anthem, "How Great Is Our God." This song, penned by Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, and Ed Cash, has become a staple in churches worldwide, and for good reason. It's a beautiful expression of worship that proclaims the majesty and glory of God. In this article, we'll dive deep into the lyrics of this iconic song, exploring its meaning and impact. So, let's get started and unpack the profound message behind "How Great Is Our God."

The Story Behind "How Great Is Our God"

Before we delve into the lyrics, let's take a quick look at the story behind this powerful worship song. “How Great Is Our God” was written by Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, and Ed Cash, three incredibly talented songwriters in the Christian music scene. The song was first released in 2004 on Chris Tomlin's album Arriving, and it quickly resonated with audiences worldwide. Its soaring melody, combined with its theologically rich lyrics, made it an instant classic in churches across denominations. The song's widespread popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the essence of worship and praise in a way that is both accessible and profound. Chris Tomlin has shared that the inspiration behind the song came from a desire to express the awe and wonder of God's greatness in a way that is both personal and communal. The song's success has also led to numerous covers and versions in different languages, further solidifying its place as one of the most beloved worship songs of our time.

Verse 1: Majesty and Mystery

Let's start our lyrical journey with the first verse:

The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice

In this opening verse, the song immediately establishes the majesty and splendor of God. The imagery of a King clothed in majesty sets the stage for a grand and awe-inspiring worship experience. When we sing, “Let all the earth rejoice,” we're not just making a suggestion; it's an invitation to the entire world to join in the celebration of God's greatness. The phrase emphasizes the universal scope of God's reign and the joy that comes from acknowledging His sovereignty. The line, “He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide,” paints a vivid picture of God's radiant glory. Light is a common metaphor for God's presence and holiness, while darkness represents evil and the absence of God. The fact that darkness “trembles at His voice” speaks to God's unmatched power and authority. It's a reminder that God's presence dispels fear and brings hope. This verse beautifully captures the essence of God's transcendence and immanence, inviting us to both revere Him and draw near to Him.

Chorus: How Great Is Our God

The chorus is the heart of the song, a powerful declaration of God's greatness:

How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God

This chorus is so simple, yet so profound. When we sing, “How great is our God,” we're not just making a statement; we're expressing a deep-seated conviction about the nature of God. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the magnitude of God's greatness, which is beyond human comprehension. The invitation to “sing with me” underscores the communal aspect of worship. It's a call to join together in unified adoration, creating a powerful expression of faith. The line, “and all will see,” speaks to the witnessing aspect of worship. Our declaration of God's greatness is not just for ourselves; it's a testimony to the world. It's an invitation for others to recognize and acknowledge the greatness of God. The repetition of “How great, how great is our God” serves as an emphatic affirmation of God's infinite glory. It's a reminder that God's greatness is not limited or finite; it extends beyond our understanding. The chorus is the emotional and spiritual high point of the song, inviting us to fully embrace the awe and wonder of God's presence.

Verse 2: Time and Eternity

The second verse delves into the timeless nature of God:

Age to age He stands, and time is in His hands Beginning and the End, Beginning and the End The Godhead Three in One: Father, Spirit, Son The Lion and the Lamb, the Lion and the Lamb

In this verse, the lyrics emphasize the eternal nature of God. The phrase “Age to age He stands” speaks to God's unchanging presence throughout history. It's a reminder that God is not bound by time; He exists outside of it. The imagery of time being “in His hands” further underscores God's sovereignty over all creation. He is the master of time, and His plans unfold according to His perfect will. The declaration that God is the “Beginning and the End” is a powerful statement of His all-encompassing nature. It speaks to God's role as the Alpha and Omega, the one who initiates and completes all things. The line, “The Godhead Three in One: Father, Spirit, Son,” is a concise expression of the doctrine of the Trinity. It acknowledges the mysterious unity of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons in one divine being. The final line, “The Lion and the Lamb,” is a striking juxtaposition that captures the multifaceted nature of Christ. The Lion represents His power and majesty, while the Lamb symbolizes His sacrificial love and humility. This verse is rich in theological depth, inviting us to contemplate the eternal and complex nature of God.

Bridge: The Name Above All Names

The bridge builds the song to its climactic moment:

Name above all names, You are worthy of our praise And my heart will sing how great is our God

This bridge serves as a pivotal point in the song, elevating the worship experience to a new level. The phrase “Name above all names” is a declaration of Jesus's supreme authority and preeminence. It's a recognition that His name is higher than any other name, possessing unmatched power and significance. The assertion that God is “worthy of our praise” is a reminder of the appropriate response to His greatness. Praise is not just an option; it's a necessary expression of gratitude and adoration for all that God is and has done. The personal declaration, “And my heart will sing how great is our God,” transforms the song from a communal expression to an individual commitment. It's a moment of personal devotion, where the singer pledges to continually proclaim God's greatness. This bridge effectively channels the emotional energy of the song towards a focused expression of worship, setting the stage for the final repetition of the chorus.

Final Chorus and Meaning

The song culminates in a powerful repetition of the chorus:

How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God

The repetition of the chorus serves as a resounding affirmation of God's greatness, leaving a lasting impression on the listener. Each time we sing, “How great is our God,” we reinforce the central message of the song, allowing it to sink deeper into our hearts and minds. The invitation to “sing with me” continues to emphasize the communal aspect of worship, encouraging us to unite our voices in praise. The declaration that “all will see” speaks to the transformative power of worship, suggesting that our expression of faith can be a witness to others. The final repetition of “How great, how great is our God” is an emphatic statement of God's infinite glory, leaving no room for doubt or reservation. The chorus is not just a musical refrain; it's a spiritual declaration that shapes our understanding of God and our relationship with Him. By singing these words, we align ourselves with the heavenly chorus, proclaiming the greatness of God for all eternity.

The Impact of "How Great Is Our God"

"How Great Is Our God" has had a profound impact on the landscape of contemporary worship music. Its powerful message and soaring melody have resonated with millions of people around the world, making it a staple in churches and worship gatherings across denominations. The song's success can be attributed to its ability to articulate the majesty and mystery of God in a way that is both theologically sound and emotionally accessible. It has become an anthem for believers seeking to express their adoration and awe of God. The song has also inspired countless covers and versions in different languages, demonstrating its universal appeal. Beyond its musical impact, "How Great Is Our God" has served as a catalyst for personal and corporate worship experiences. Its lyrics have prompted deep reflection on the nature of God, encouraging individuals to encounter His presence in a more profound way. The song has also fostered a sense of unity among believers, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared expression of faith. In many ways, "How Great Is Our God" has become more than just a song; it's a declaration of faith and a testament to the power of worship.

Conclusion: A Timeless Anthem of Praise

In conclusion, “How Great Is Our God” is more than just a song; it's a powerful declaration of faith, a timeless anthem of praise that resonates with the soul. Its lyrics beautifully capture the majesty, mystery, and eternal nature of God, inviting us to join in the chorus of worship. From the opening verse that paints the splendor of a King to the climactic repetition of the chorus, every word is carefully crafted to express the greatness of God. The song's impact is undeniable, touching the hearts of millions and becoming a staple in churches worldwide. So, the next time you sing “How Great Is Our God,” remember the depth of its meaning and let your heart be filled with awe and adoration for the One who is worthy of all our praise. Let's continue to sing, “How great, how great is our God!”