by Sandy Simpson
Apologetics Coordination Team
Updated As Of: 5/3/17
A rating of fours stars indicates an excellent song, one which teaches
sound doctrine and accurately portrays a Biblical view of God.
A rating of three stars indicates the song is suitable for use in Bible
believing Christ centered churches.
A rating of two stars means the song is only fair, usually as a result
of having at least one lyrical problem or related issue.
A rating of one star means the song has seriously compromised unbiblical
lyrics and should not be used.
A rating of zero stars means this song is not recommended for ANY use in
a Biblical church.
NEW SEARCH FEATURE! - Click on the stars above to search for songs rated with the amount of stars you choose. Continue to click on the stars graphic on the next song found to browse through all the songs associated with your chosen star rating.
The criteria for this ratings page stems from a proper exegesis of the Bible and the use of the core doctrines of the Faith. You can also use the following articles as reference and ideas on how to test music in your church.
Testing
Music In The Church by Sandy Simpson, 10/00
Testing
Music In The Church 2 by Sandy Simpson, 3/17/09
Before we get into rating individual songs, I want to give you some tips on how to test music in your church and choose good songs for your worship team.
(1) You can make any song better by NOT repeating phrases in the song over and over. That can only lead to people zoning out and not really thinking about what they are singing. Sing more songs instead of singing a few songs over and over until people are numb.This ratings page will be an ongoing project. Check back often for new ratings that have been added. If you have any songs you want rated you can submit them to me at ditc@hotmail.com. I hope this page will be a help to many.(2) Avoid songs that focus on self, repeating words like "I", "me", "my" and "mine" throughout. Choose songs that focus people on Jesus Christ.
(3) Test all music, both new and old. There are bad old songs and good new ones, and visa versa as you will see as you read these ratings.
(4) If a songwriter or music publisher is affiliated with a heretical or compromised church or movement, those false teachings will eventually come through in their compositions.
(5) Consider mixing up musical styles. A church can get into a rut focusing on only contemporary music just as easily as focusing only on hymns. Choose a mixture of new and old and different methods such as overheads and hymnbooks.
(6) Don't foster the habit of having people clap on every upbeat song. That gets very boring.
(7) Consider, if possible, having more than one worship team in your church, especially if they have different styles. I know one church who had a jazz band, a contemporary band, a rock band, and a classical music group with violins, etc. I could add a lot more styles to that group including choirs, pipe or electric organ, folk, etc.
(8) Choose songs that glorify God, teach sound doctrine, teach about God's character, etc.
(9) Establish a committee of elders, pastors and worship leaders to make sure good worship music is being used in your church.
NOTE: If the lyrics to a song are missing it is because the holders of the copyrights would not grant me permission to copy them on my site. However I do provide a link to the lyrics on other sites.
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Verse 1:
God give me strength to make it through
Situations that sometimes get out of hand
I'll keep my eyes on You
I'll keep my eyes on You
Chorus:
My dreams may not come true
I may fall, I may fall on my face
Still my hope is in You
All I need is the strength to make it through
Verse 2:
God strengthen these hands that always hurt You
This mind that wanders and always gets out hand
I'll keep my eyes on You
I'll keep my eyes on You
Chorus:
My dreams may not come true
I may fall, I may fall on my face
Still my hope is in You
All I need is the strength to make it through
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
(I'll keep my eyes on you)
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
(I'll keep my eyes on you)
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
(I'll keep my eyes on you)
Like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared
(I'll keep my eyes on you)
Chorus:
My dreams may not come true
I may fall, I may fall on my face
Still my hope is in You
All I need is the strength to make it through
My dreams they may not come true
I may fall, I may fall on my face
I may fall, I may fall,
I may fall, I may fall on my face
The good aspect of this song is that our hope is in the Lord (Ps. 39:7) and we do need to keep our eyes on the Lord (Matt. 14:29-31). Not sure what "like a breath in the fog my memories have disappeared" means since there is no mention of that concept or apparently the word "fog" in the Bible. I'm not sure if the author meant this as a good thing or bad thing. It may be poetic but if people can simply assign any meaning of their own to a phrase, then there can be no unity in worship.
Generally good picture of Jesus and His Deity/humanity. Two problems however. (1) A rose that's on the ground has no value. Its beauty is spent and gone. The biblical "fall" is about us giving in to temptation - and that doesn't really fit the context here. The notion of "taking the fall" commonly referred to a co-conspirator in a crime who's job was to take the "fall" for the crime and do his time in prison, knowing that his cronys had his share waiting for him. The "fall guy" was guilty and shouldn't be confused with a scapegoat. Mixed metaphors. The words we have of Jesus on the cross indicate that he was thinking about His Father and His separation. He did speak of his mother and disciple but there is no reference to future believers or the world in general or about me, specifically. (2) God is no respecter of persons and, I believe, did NOT think of ME above ALL. Theologically wrong and logically impossible. (Commentary by Mary Walker)
Good song though sparse lyrics.
Isaiah 28:16 Therefore thus says the Lord GOD: "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, A tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; Whoever believes will not act hastily.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
'Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.
A truly great and classic song of Christianity. I urge you to read more on the amazing story of this song here.
This song exposes the Latter Rain/Dominionist theology of the author. (1) Firstly, 2 Chron. 7:14 was written about Israel, not America. America is not God's people. There are Gentile Christians and the Gentile Church within America, but America is not "called by My name". Therefore God is not guaranteeing that He will "heal the land" of America. The following OT verse is often used out of context in modern Gentile churches. 2 Chron. 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name (Israel), will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. America is under God's judgment mainly because the churches within it have, by in large, apostatized. (2) The Lord is not coming to America, unless he means in a strictly spiritual sense. And even then America is on the decline as the churches in America are falling away. To be sure Jesus Christ does not physically return to America. Notice where he returns. Zechariah 14:4 On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south. (3) The dead in Christ will be raised on the day of Jesus' return. But many stories of false dead raisings are being passed around among the New Apostolic churches to bolster their claim that they are doing Divine signs and wonders. Which are he referring to? (4) The phrases "feeling the fire" and "feel the wind" are phrases of the Latter Rain in believing that God is going to cause a great end times revival. But the Bible makes it clear that God says the end times will see a great apostasy (2 Thes. 2:3). Do not use this song because it is promoting the false ideas of the Latter Rain.
You alone are my strength, my shield
To you alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship you
You're my friend and you are my brother
Even though you are a king
And I love you more than any other
So much more than anything
Chorus
I want You more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye
Good song taken directly from, among other places in Scripture, Ps. 42:1.
Oh Lord, You've searched me
You know my way
Even when I fail You
I know You love me
Your holy presence
Surrounding me
In every season
I know You love me
I know You love me
At the cross I bow my knee
Where Your blood was shed for me
There's no greater love than this
You have overcome the grave
Your glory fills the highest place
What can separate me now
You go before me
You shield my way
Your hand upholds me
I know You love me
At the cross I bow my knee
Where Your blood was shed for me
There's no greater love than this
You have overcome the grave
Your glory fills the highest place
What can separate me now? (x2)
You tore the veil
You made a way
When You said that it is done (x2)
And when the earth fades
Falls from my eyes
And You stand before me
I know You love me
I know You love me
At the cross I bow my knee
Where your blood was shed for me
There's no greater love than this
You have overcome the grave
Your glory fills the highest place
What can separate me now? (x2)
You tore the veil
You made a way
When You said that it is done (x4)
1 Corinthians 15:55 "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?" Note: Always be careful of music from Hillsong as they promote the New Apostolic.
Because of who You are I give you glory
Because of who You are I give you praise
Because of who You are
I will lift my voice and say
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Because of who You are I give you glory
Because of who You are I give you praise
Because of who You are
I will lift my voice and say
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Jehovah Jireh, my provider
Jehovah Nissi, Lord You reign in victory
Jehovah Shalom, my Prince of Peace
And I worship You because of who You are.
Jehovah Jireh, my provider
Jehovah Nissi, Lord You reign in victory
Jehovah Shalom my Prince of Peace
And I worship You because of who You are.
Because of who You are
I give You glory
Because of who You are
I give You praise
Because of who You are
I will lift my voice and say
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Lord I worship You because of who You are
Good song. True worship is worshipping the attributive names of God. Would have been nice to mention Jesus Christ as He should always be our focus of worship because both the Father and Holy Spirit make Jesus Christ the centerpoint of our worship today in true biblical churches.
[Verse 1]
This is my revelation
Christ Jesus crucified
Salvation through repentance
At the cross on which He died
[Verse 2]
Now here my absolution
Forgiveness for my sin
And I sink beneath the waters
That Christ was buried in
[Chorus]
I will rise
I will rise
As Christ was raised to life
Now in him now in Him I live
[Verse 3]
I stand a new creation
Baptised in blood and fire
No fear of condemnation
By faith I'm justified
[Chorus] x 2
[Bridge 1]
I rise as You are risen
Declare Your rule and reign
My life confess Your Lordship
And glorify Your Name
Your word it stands eternal
Your kingdom knows no end
Your praise goes on forever
An on and on again
[Bridge 2]
No power can stand against you
No curse assault Your throne
No one can steal Your glory
For it is Yours alone
I stand to sing Your praises
I stand to testify
For I was dead in my sin
But now I rise
[Chorus] x 3
This song would be fine apart from the fact it got the facts wrong about Jesus' death, if that is what the underlined phrase above is refering to. We need to be careful to teach the truth because there are a lot of people out there who know little or nothing about what the Bible teaches, including many Christians. Christ was not buried in water at His death. If this is refering to His baptism we need to be careful to explain that also. He was not baptized as an evidence of being a sinner (ie. "forgiveness of my sin") then being born again and filled with the Spirit but rather as an example of what others should do. We are not saved by baptism nor are our sins forgiven by it. That is only by belief and committment to the Lord Jesus Christ as the One and Only Sacrifice for our sins. If this is a figurative statement regarding His death depicting the spiritual realm as "waters" then that should be explained. But many people would be confused by this lyric, as was the person who pointed it out to me. It is better to be sure that statements like this will be clearly understood as such by even small children if being used as a "worship" song. Otherwise you end up with a song that has a lot of good in it and one false statement that most people might take in the wrong way. Because of that I cannot really recommend this song.
This song is taken from Psalm 84:10: "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked." As long as people don't take this song to mean that Christians are to expect the Shekinah Glory in their churches, but instead are looking forward to the resurrection, then it is fine. I am not at all sure what the author means by saying he has "tasted" and "seen". If he is saying he has tasted and seen God in the sense of being born again and filled with the Spirit, than that is good. If he is saying that he as tasted and seen the Shekinah Glory, then he is mistaken. Since this author is associated with Hillsong he may well be subtly advocating New Apostolic/Latter Rain ideas.
Great song on the willingness to put your whole life in the hands of the Lord, no matter the ups and downs. Though the author is working with Hillsong, this is nevertheless a good song.
Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but
I will maintain mine own ways before him.
Job 1:21 And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked
shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away;
blessed be the name of the LORD.
[Lead:]
There is power in the name of Jesus [3x]
to break every chain, break every chain, break every
chain. [2x]
[Chorus:]
There is power in the name of Jesus [3x]
to break every chain, break every chain, break
every chain. [2x]
[Lead:]
Theres an army rising up. [3x]
To break every chain, break every chain, break every
chain. [2x]
[Chorus:]
Theres an army rising up. [3x]
To break every chain, break every chain, break every
chain. [2x]
[Vamp:]
I hear the chains falling.
[End:]
There is power in the name of Jesus
to break every chain, break every chain, break every
chain.
As discussed elsewhere in this page, repetition is not a good thing to practice in Christian churches. Matt. 6:7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. This can be applied to songs as well. This song is VERY repetitious. It also has some doctrinal problems. The power in the name of Jesus is to cause a person's spirit to be reborn when they believe. Subsequently we are to follow the Spirit and put off the old man, putting on the new man daily by picking up our cross and following Christ. Also, the bit about an "army rising up" is a reference to Joel's Army which has been used to promote Dominionism when it is actually about an army of locusts that destroy. Read about this "Joel's Army" in this article.
This is the air I breathe
This is the air I breathe
Your holy presence living in me
This is my daily bread
This is my daily bread
Your very word spoken to me
And I, I'm desperate for you
And I, I'm I'm lost without you
This is the air I breathe
This is the air I breathe
Your holy presence living in me
This is my daily bread
this is my daily bread
Your very word spoken to me
And I'm, I'm desperate for you
And I'm, I'm lost without you
And I'm desperate for you
And I'm, I'm lost without you.
I'm lost without you.
I'm lost without you.
I'm desperate for you.
(Cry out to live)
I'm desperate for you..
I'm lost, I'm lost, I'm lost without you..
I'm lost without you
I'm desperate for you
The main problem with this song, which is why I do not recommend it for worship music, is that it tends to portray God in a pantheistic way. The authors may or may not have intended it this way and the lyrics can be taken figuratively, but this song sung over and over again brainwashes people into thinking that God is in everything. Therefore if the air that you breath is God, then logically since everyone breaths air they must be part of God. These types of ideas are all leading to a false world religion under the antichrist. Smith, who popularized this song, is himself working with Third Wavers and does concerts in their churches, on TBN, etc. Benny Hinn demonstrated this idea of God being in breath when he was famously filmed blowing on people (and even on himself) to slay them in the spirit. Hinn said:
"When we breathe out we breathe ourselves out and when we breathe in we breathe in the Spirit". (Observed by Ed Tarkowski on TBN, Fri, 11 Jul 1997)
This is clear, unadulterated pantheism. Smith would have been aware of this idea when he picked up this song to perform it. Many Christians who have sung this song assume it is speaking figuratively about Jesus meaning everything to them. To see more on the Third Wave religion of people like Benny Hinn, check out this DVD.
Another problem I have with this song is the assertion of a "believer" like Smith that he is "desperate" for God. It can sound like he really wants "more" of God or like he has perhaps not really connected with Jesus Christ. Yet he states that this experience is his "daily bread" without mentioning the Scripture. The Bible is our bread, not breathing in air. You don't get your "word" out of the air or an experience ... you get it from reading the written Word of God. Those who believe that they can get truth through somehow breathing in the Holy Spirit will be desperate for real truth and will end up feeling very lost unless they allow the indwelling Spirit to teach them through the Scriptures. The reason for the one star rating is the repetition of the worst lyric in this song.
This is a good example of how an otherwise good topic can be misapplied and misunderstood by those singing this type of song. God is in the process of establishing His Kingdom now in the reborn spirits of men who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. He will not establish His physical Kingdom on earth till Christ returns. He will not "heal our streets and lands" until the Millennial Kingdom. Right now we are to preach the Gospel whereby the Holy Spirit changes people who commit to Jesus Christ from the inside out. Two ther phrases in this song show it is from a Dominionist/Latter Rain perspective. "Change our atmopshere" and "Holy Spirit, come invade us now". The "atmosphere" of the world will not be changed until the Millennial Kingdom because right now it is under the dominion of the evil one. The Holy Spirit does not "invade" people, and if they are being forcably "invaded" it is another spirit.
I have found the love of my desire (Jesus)
I'm caught up in the passion of an ever-flaming fire
(We're
lovesick)
Captured by a pure and holy gaze (You're beauty
ravishes me)
Frightened by your beauty but I just can't look away
Burning, oh I'm burning
My heart becomes and instant flame
At the very mention of Your name
You can hear Mike Bickle adding to the song with disgusting references to God in sexual terms. These ideas are misapplications of the Song of Solomon. JFB Commentary states in introductions to the Song of Solomon:
Three notes of time occur [MOODY STUART]: (1) The Jewish Church speaks of the Gentile Church (#So 8:8) towards the end; (2) Christ speaks to the apostles (#So 5:1) in the middle; (3) The Church speaks of the coming of Christ (#So 1:2) at the beginning. Thus we have, in direct order, Christ about to come, and the cry for the advent; Christ finishing His work on earth, and the last supper; Christ ascended, and the call of the Gentiles.Scofield states this:
The interpretation is twofold: Primarily, the book is the expression of pure marital love as ordained of God in creation, and the vindication of that love as against both asceticism and lust: the two profanations of the holiness of marriage. The secondary and larger interpretation is of Christ, the Son and His heavenly bride, the Church (#2Co 11.1-4, refs). In this sense the book has six divisions: I. The bride seen in restful communion with the Bridegroom, 1.1-2.7. II. A lapse and restoration, 2.3-3.5. III. Joy of fellowship, 3.6-5.1. IV. Separation of interestâ€â€ťthe bride satisfied, the Bridegroom toiling for others, 5.2-5. V. The bride seeking and witnessing, 5.6-6.3. VI. Unbroken communion, 6.4-8.14.It is quite a stretch, in fact patently bad hermeneutics, to teach that the Song of Solomon is painting a picture of lust and love between a human individual and God rather than a picture of the relationship (not sexual) between the Church and Christ. To profane this wonderful prophetic book, a picture of both earthly human marriage and the marriage of Christ and His Church is sickening, in fact blasphemous.
Verse:
Your love has ravished my heart
And taken me over, taken me over
And all I want is to be
With You forever, with You forever
Chorus 1:
Pull me a little closer
Take me a little deeper
I want to know Your heart
I want to know Your heart
‘Cause Your love is so much sweeter
Than anything I’ve tasted
I want to know Your heart
I want to know Your heart
Bridge:
Ooh, Ooh how great your love is for me
Ooh, Ooh how great is your love
Chorus 2:
Pull me a little closer
Take me a little deeper
I want to know Your heart
I want to know Your heart
‘Cause Your love is so much stronger
Than anything I’ve faced and
I want to know Your heart
I want to know Your heart
This is yet another Bethel song celebrating the feelings they get from the "transferable impartation" which is not only unbiblical but occult in origin. God does not "ravish" the hearts of His followers. He does not take them over, taking away their will and making them do things they have no control over. The Bible specifically states that the fruit of the spirit is self-control (Gal. 5:23) and that the gathering of the saints is one of order, not disorder (1 Cor. 14:33). Those who sign this song are unaquainted with Jesus Christ. They need to test themselves to see if they are in the Faith (2 Cor. 13:5)
Come, ye sinners, poor and needy
Weak and wounded, sick and sore
Jesus ready, stands to save you
Full of pity, love and power
I will arise and go to Jesus
He will embrace me in His arms
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O, there are ten thousand charms
Come, ye thirsty, come and welcome
God's free bounty glorify
True belief and true repentance
Every grace that brings you nigh
Come, ye weary, heavy-laden
Lost and ruined by the fall
If you tarry 'til you're better
You will never come at all
I will arise and go to Jesus
He will embrace me in His arms
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O, there are ten thousand charms
See Him Prostate in the garden
On the ground your Maker lies
On the bloody tree, behold him
Sinner, will this not suffice?"
Lo! the incarnate God ascended
Pleads the merit of his blood
Venture on him, venture wholly
Let no other trust intrude
I will arise and go to Jesus
He will embrace me in His arms
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O, there are ten thousand charms
This is a good song except for the very last line. It is almost as though they ran out of rhyming words. There is no such reference to Jesus in the Bible, in fact when the word "charms" is used it is used in a bad way, particularly talking about magic charms. The Gospel is not magic, nor is being embraced by Jesus to be compared to charms. Song Of Solomon 1:16 says that the "beloved" is "charming", the only reference to this word in that book. That dialog is a reference to the Lord the Father has for His People, Israel. According to the dictionary the word "charm" is defined as: a : the chanting or reciting of a magic spell : incantation, b : a practice or expression believed to have magic power, :something worn about the person to ward off evil or ensure good fortune : amulet. :a trait that fascinates, allures, or delights,:a physical grace or attraction —used in plural <her feminine charms>, :compelling attractiveness <the island possessed great charm>, :a small ornament worn on a bracelet or chain, :a fundamental quark that has an electric charge of +2?3 and a measured energy of approximately 1.5 GeV; also : the flavor characterizing this particle. The only definition that would fit would be alure or delights. But even that is not really a proper way to address God. Notice that the first primary definition is of a chant or magic spell. Because of this one problem it taints the whole song.
VERSE 1:
Behold You have come over the hills upon the mountain
To me, You will run. My Beloved, You've captured my
heart
(repeat)
CHORUS 1:
Won't You dance with me, Oh
Lover of my soul,
to the song of all songs?
VERSE 2:
With You, I will go You are my Love You are my Fair
One
The winter has passed and the springtime has come
(repeat)
CHORUS 2:
Won't You dance with me, Oh
Lover of my soul,
to the song of all songs?
Romance me, Oh
Lover of my soul
to the song of all songs.
Here we have another song that is being used by IHOP, Bethel Church and other NAR establishments to try to paradigm shift people into the "bridal" movement (again (see reviews of lyrics to "Burning", "Obsession", "Sailed On" and "Undivided Focus" for information on this movement). God is not there to "romance" us, though He loved us enough to send His Only Son, Jesus Christ, to die in our place for our sins. God is not looking for sexual partners, He is looking for born again obedient children who become the bride of Christ. But to use the term "romance" casts a different light on God Who loves us and Who is love but is also the Righteous Judge. God does not want us for some personal sexual satisfaction, He wants our love and devotion because that is what we need. I do not recommend any of the "bridal paradigm" songs to be sung in true biblical churches because is it simply an introduction to the counterfeit "anointing" that can be transferred by laying on of hands, by the will of man, which is entirely unscriptural. I have also seen much destruction come about in the lives of countless individuals because they got another spirit when someone laid hands on them and "prophesied" over them. Stay far away from this occult stuff that arouses unbiblical sensuality if you are a true born again believer and want to show God that you love Him. Here is God's definition of love: John 14:23-24 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. It would do all of us well to remember the admonishment of Paul to the Ephesians regarding false teachers: Ephesians 4:18-20 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. That, however, is not the way of life you learned. Though these people claim they are hyper sensitive to the "spirit" they are actually insensate and have given themselves over to indulge the soul and flesh instead of understanding the things of the Spirit.
These Are The Days Of Elijah
declaring The Word Of The Lord
and These Are The Days Of Your Servant Moses
righteousness Being Restored
and Though These Are Days Of Great Trials
of Famine And Darkness And Sword
still We Are The Voice In The Desert Crying
prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord!
behold He Comes! Riding On The Clouds!
shining Like The Sun! At The Trumpet Call
lift Your Voice! It's The Year Of Jubilee!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes!
and These Are The Days Of Ezekiel
the Dry Bones Becoming As Flesh
and These Are The Days Of Your Servant David
rebuilding A Temple Of Praise
and These Are The Days Of The Harvest
the Fields Are As White In The World
and We Are The Labourers In Your Vineyard
declaring The Word Of The Lord!
behold He Comes! Riding On The Clouds!
shining Like The Sun! At The Trumpet Call
lift Your Voice! It's The Year Of Jubilee!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes!
there's No God Like Jehovah!
there's No God Like Jehovah!
there's No God Like Jehovah!
there's No God Like Jehovah!
(Repeat 3 Times)
behold He Comes! Riding On The Clouds!
shining Like The Sun! At The Trumpet Call
lift Your Voice! It's The Year Of Jubilee!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes!
behold He Comes! Riding On The Clouds!
shining Like The Sun! At The Trumpet Call
lift Your Voice! It's The Year Of Jubilee!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes!
and Out Of Zion's Hill Salvation Comes
A fanciful song but actually these are not the days of any of those mentioned. That was all in the past. Though Elijah and Moses may come in spirit as the two witnesses during the Tribulation (or possibly Enoch and Elijah), it is not yet their time. This is also not a time of righteousness being "restored" but of a falling away. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, The falling away (apostasy) will come before the two witnesses are revealed and is a mark of the end times. 1 Timothy 4:1 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, The parts of this song looking forward to the second coming are good. But let's not give people a false impression and exaggerated view of the Church. Also it is more proper to use YHWH or Yahweh when referring to the Lord rather than the manufactured term "Jehovah".
I've got a river of living water
A fountain that never will run dry
It's open Heavens You're releasing
And we will never be denied
Cause we're stirring up deep deep wells
We're stirring up deep deep waters
We're going to dance in the river, dance in the
river
Cause we're stirring up deep deep wells
We're stirring up deep deep waters
We're going to jump in the river
Jump in the river and everybody singing now
Deep cries out to deep cries out to
Deep cries out to deep cries out to
So we cry out to, we cry out to, You Jesus
We're falling into deeper waters, calling out to You
We're walking into deeper waters, going after You
If He goes to the left then we'll go to the left
And if He goes to the right then we'll go to the right
We're going to jump jump jump jump in the river
Jump jump jump jump, everybody
If He goes to the left then we'll go to the left
And if He goes to the right then we'll go to the right
We're going to dance dance, dance dance in the river
Dance dance, dance dance, everybody
If He goes to the left then we'll go to the left
And if He goes to the right then we'll go to the right
We're going to shout shout shout shout in the river
Shout shout shout shout in the river, everybody
This is a song from from a heretical church who are proponents of the false teachings of the New Apostolic Reformation. They are known for dancing around during church services, slain in the spirit, spinning around like whirling dervishes, prophets roaming the sanctuary giving personal readings, "gold" dust and angel feather manifestations, you name it. The references to the river in the song is the river of counterfeit revival in the tradition and direct link to the Toronto "Blessing" and Brownsville "Outpouring" movements. Their pastor has taught many heretical teachings which we have exposed on our site.
http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/newapostolic.html#bjohnson
The reference to "open heaven" is not only from the NAR but also from New Age. If your church is beginning to use this type of song, it is time to leave.
Chorus 1
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
Verse 1
This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides
Verse 2
This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame
Verse 3
This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand
Misc 1
(BRIDGE)
All of my life in every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship
(REPEAT)
Verse 4
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favour and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow
This is basically a good prayer to the Lord in every season of life. It does sound suspiciously like a "Desert Fathers" litany but I cannot find the reference. One problem I have with the bridge is that saying "I have a reason to worship" without actually worshipping God (except to say He is "still God") is what a lot of modern "worship" songs do. They are always promising to worship the Lord but rarely get around to doing it. This is more of a prayer/petition song with promises to obey the Lord but is not really a song that extols the many attributes of God. Also, declaration is not what brings the presence of the Lord. It is the gathering of true believers together. Matthew 18:20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.
Draw Me Close to You
Never Let Me Go
I Lay It All Down Again
To Hear You Say That I'm Your Friend
You Are My Desire
No One Else Will Be
Cos no One Else Can Take Your Place
To Feel the Warmth of Your Embrace
Help Me Find the Way
Bring Me Back to You
Chorus
You're All I Want
You're All I've Ever Needed
You're All I Want
Help Me Know You Are Near
Draw Me Close to You
Never Let Me Go
I Lay It All Down Again
To Hear You Say That I'm Your Friend
You Are My Desire
No One Else Will Be
No One Else Can Take Your Place
To Feel the Warmth of Your Embrace
Help Me Find the Way
Bring Me Back to You
Chorus
You're All I Want
You're All I've Ever Needed
You're All I Want
Help Me Know You Are Near
You're All I Want
You're All I've Ever Needed
You're All I Want
Help Me Know You Are Near
Help Me Know You Are Near
Help Me Know You Are Near
The group The Katinas has been working with some organizations that are compromised theologically like World Vision and compromisers like Greg Laurie. This is likely why you see the beginnings of the effect of Mike Bickle's IHOP in this love song. I have heard this song in a number of churches for years. Two problems I see. First is that this love song can be applied to anyone even though it has been used as a worship song and I believe that was the original intent. Second, talking about being warmly embraced by Jesus is a nice metaphor for His love as long as this is not taken in a sensual or sexual way. This song is a little too open to interpretation for me to highly recommend it as a worship song in church.
If you feel too serious and kind of blue, I've got a suggestion, just the thing for you! It's a little unconventional, but so much fun, That you won't even mind when people think you're dumb! Just come to the party God is throwing right now, We can all lighten up and show the pagans how Christians have more fun and keep everyone guessing, Since the Holy Ghost sent us the Toronto blessing! I used to think life was serious stuff; I didn't dare cry, so I acted kind of tough 'Til the Spirit of God put laughter in my soul, Now the Holy Ghost's got me, and I'm out of control! Now I'm just a party animal grazing at God's trough, I'm a Jesus junkie, and I can't get enough! I'm an alcoholic for that great New Wine, 'Cause the Holy Ghost is pouring, and I'm drinking all the time! Now I laugh like an idiot and bark like a dog, If I don't sober up, I'll likely hop like a frog! And I'll crow like a rooster 'til the break of day, 'Cause the Holy Ghost is moving, and I can't stay away! Now I roar like a lioness who's on the prowl, I laugh and I shake, maybe hoot like an owl! Since God's holy river started bubbling up in me, It spills outside, and it's setting me free! So, I'll crunch and I'll dip and I'll dance round and round, 'Cause the pew was fine, but it's more fun on the ground! So I'll jump like a pogo stick, then fall on the floor, 'Cause the Holy Ghost is moving, and I just want MORE!
Perhaps the song lyrics that get the award for being the "ugliest" would
be this song written by Kathy Riss, wife of Dr. Richard Riss who is the
foremost historian and apologist for the Third Wave movement. That Dr.
Riss would allow his wife to write this song and publish and republish
it all over the Internet, shows he has no headship over his wife at all.
This song was used in Toronto "Blessing" meetings to put people into an
altered state of consciousness so they would be more receptive to the false
anointing. It sets people up for unbiblical and even demonic oppression.
The things mentioned in this song have been going on since John Wimber
and the Vineyard and continue today in Toronto "Blessing" and Brownsville
AoG influenced churches. This song is so disgusting I had reservations
in citing it, but I do so to inform you about how far away from the Word
of God many churches have strayed in their music, teaching and actions.
Here I am, Lord, and I'm drowning in your sea of forgetfulness
The chains of yesterday surround me
I yearn for peace and rest
I don't want to end up where You found me
And it echoes in my mind, keeps me awake tonight
I know You've cast my sin as far as the east is from
the west
And I stand before You now as though I've never sinned
But today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from
You leaving me this way
Jesus, can You show me just how far the east is from
the west
'cause I can't bear to see the man I've been come
rising up in me again
In the arms of Your mercy I find rest
'cause You know just how far the east is from the
west
From one scarred hand to the other
I start the day, the war begins, endless reminding
of my sin
Time and time again Your truth is drowned out by the
storm I'm in
Today I feel like I'm just one mistake away from
You leaving me this way
I know You've washed me white, turned my darkness into
light
I need Your peace to get me through, to get me through
this night
I can't live by what I feel, but by the truth Your
word reveals
I'm not holding on to You, but You're holding on to
me
You're holding on to me
Jesus, You know just how far the east is from the west
I don't have to see the man I've been come rising
up in me again
In the arms of Your mercy I find rest
'cause You know just how far the east is from the
west
From one scarred hand to the other
One scarred hand to the other
From one scarred hand to the other
This song is based on this verse: Psalms 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. The problem with some believers is that they allow the enemy to taunt them with sins that God has already forgiven. If a person is fighting a war with being reminded of their past forgiven sins everyday, they likely have not understood the Gospel message or have not really repented of those sins. This song is more of a personal testimony and should not be sung as a worship song in the assembly of believers. Not every believer can sing this because those who truly know the grace of God have left the past behind and stand against the enemy when he tries to bring those sins up again. One problem that causes this situation is methodologies like Cleansing Stream and Theopostics which get people to drag up past sins and dwell on them when true believers need to "let go and let God". You cannot move forward in serving God if you are allowing the enemy to taunt you with past sins. I am glad the author does acknowledge that he does need to change and that Jesus Christ died for his sins in the chorus. This is a good song for those who call themselves followers of Christ to think about if they are dealing with past sins still weighing them down. If they are, however, they should not be singing about it but follow what the Bible says:
Romans 6:6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified
with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should
no longer be slaves of sin.
Ephesians 4:22 that you put off, concerning your former
conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful
lusts,
Of course to say that God will leave you and forsake you over one sin is not biblical. In fact He died for our sins while we were yet sinners.
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:
While
we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Hebrews 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and
be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave
you; never will I forsake you."
It is true that if those who call themselves followers of Christ have never repented of their sins or live in unrepentant lifestyle sin, then they need to test themselves to see if they are in the Faith.
1 John 3:9 No one who is born of God practices sin,
because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of
God.
1 John 3:4 Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness;
and sin is lawlessness.
2 Corinthians 13:5 Test yourselves to see if you are in
the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves,
that Jesus Christ is in you...unless indeed you fail the test?
I'm thirsty Lord, Yes, I'm thirsty Lord. I'm thirsty Lord for the Living Waters of Life. I want a drink (x3) of the Living Waters of Life. Fill me up Lord. I don't have to feel it. Make me drunk with your Holy Spirit and I'll take a drink (3x) of the Living Waters of Life. Fill me up Lord. I don't have to feel it. Lord, make me drunk with your Holy Spirit. I'm tired of whisperin'. I'll start to shout it: "I don't want a cup Lord, give me Your fountain!" I'll take another drink (3x) of the Living Waters of Life
This heretical song is easy to discern in many ways. First of all the Bible says: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. (Eph 5:18) Is this passage teaching us to replace alcohol drunkenness with being "drunk in the Spirit"? No. It is saying we must be "filled" with the Spirit. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Gal. 5:22-23) Drunkenness and self-control are mutually exclusive concepts. Therefore anyone filled with the Spirit will not be drunk, with wine or with the "Spirit". Anyone opening themselves up to being "drunk in the Spirit" is actually opening themselves up to another spirit, because the Holy Spirit never causes people to be drunk in any way. Ever wonder why they called alcohol "spirits" in the old days? In fact, drunkenness is a sign of the antichrist spirit of the whore of Babylon. "Babylon was a gold cup in the LORD's hand; she made the whole earth drunk. The nations drank her wine; therefore they have now gone mad." (Jer. 51:7)
You are good, You are good
When there's nothing good in me
You are love, You are love
On display for all to see
You are light, You are light
When the darkness closes in
You are hope, You are hope
You have covered all my sin
You are peace, You are peace
When my fear is crippling
You are true, You are true
Even in my wandering
You are joy, You are joy
You're the reason that I sing
You are life, You are life,
In You death has lost its sting
Oh, I’m running to Your arms,
I’m running to Your arms
The riches of Your love
Will always be enough
Nothing compares to Your embrace
Light of the world forever reign
You are more, You are more
Than my words will ever say
You are Lord, You are Lord
All creation will proclaim
You are here, You are here
In Your presence I'm made whole
You are God, You are God
Of all else I'm letting go
Oh, I’m running to Your arms
I’m running to Your arms
The riches of Your love
Will always be enough
Nothing compares to Your embrace
Light of the world forever reign
My heart will sing
no other Name
Jesus, Jesus
Oh, I’m running to Your arms
I’m running to Your arms
The riches of Your love
Will always be enough
Nothing compares to Your embrace
Light of the world forever reign
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath
are the everlasting arms. This song overemphasizes a bit
of a romantic aspect to our relationship to God. Fortunately it does
not go as far as songs from IHOP.
Psalm 7:17 I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness;
I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.
Verse 1
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
No no no no no
No no no no no
No no no no no
Bridge 1
I feel him in my hands
I feel him in my feet
I feel him in my heart
I feel him in my soul
I feel him all over me
Verse 2
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
God's not dead, [no] He is alive
No no no no no
No no no no no
No no no no no
Bridge 2
I feel him in my hands
I feel him in my feet
I feel him in my heart
I feel him in my soul
I feel him all over me
This kid's song sung in many churches these days is the beginning of indoctrinating children to have a pantheistic view of God. This song is patently unbiblical as we are not called to "feel" God but to have a relationship to Him sight unseen. 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by faith, not by sight. Let's assume the person singing this song is a born again Christian, though I am sure many children have not yet made that commitment of faith. Are they then to believe that God is literally and substantively in their hands and feet? If that is the case then they should be able to touch people and heal them by the exercise of their will and they should be able to create reality out of nothing as Jesus did (Col. 1:16). Sound a bit like Word of Faith ideas? These ideas would inevitably lead people closer, in their thinking and belief systems, to the counterfeit transferable impartation of the Third Wave, which I believe is the purpose of such lyrics apart from the fact they were likely written by a postmodern pantheist. These lyrics appeal to people who have given themselves over to sensuality and the things of the body and soul instead of understanding the tripartite nature of man and the difference between the temporal and the things of the spirit. If you are spending all your time trying to "feel" God through cheer leading type songs like this one, you can definitely miss the spiritual fact that God IS alive and Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, not taking up residence in the hands and feet of Christians or anyone else.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found -
Was blind, but now I see so clearly
(CHORUS)
And hallelujah,
Grace Like Rain falls down on me
And hallelujah,
And all my stains are washed away -
They're washed away...
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
(CHORUS)
(BRIDGE)
When we've been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing Your praise
Than when we first begun...
(CHORUS 2X)
And hallelujah...
And hallelujah...
And hallelujah...
And hallelujah,
And all my stains are washed away -
They're washed away...
This song is basically the lyrics to the classic song "Amazing Grace" with added new lyrics and melody in-between. This is a good song that adds little to the wonderful lyrics of "Amazing Grace".
Here in this moment in time we search for wonders for miracles and signs. Something to satisfy the hunger in us all. A human rage from deep within the soul. Like a machine in pursuit on the horizon like a raging fire we move. Driven by questions in an endless search for truth. There is a stirring in us, a great awakening begins. I believe there's a mighty power. I believe it's a latter rain. I believe there's a move of God calling us all higher. Oh I believe these are the days of the great awakening. More than our hearts can contain it is an overflow of God's amazing grace coming to reconcile a world that's lost its way. Oh, all consuming fire come purify us once again. There's no containing this great move of restoration. It knows no walls, no boundaries or lines. Without a doubt I do believe if we'll just get down on our knees. The latter rain is gonna fall. It's just a matter of time.
This song, by the group 4HIM, has so much bad doctrine it ought to be easy for anyone with even a simple knowledge of the Scriptures to spot. But it is amazing how many church leaders let songs like this slip by without even checking them for content. Lets test this song step by step.
(1) The song talks about seeking "signs and wonders". The Bible does
not call us to seek signs and wonders but rather the sign for our generation
is "the sign of Jonah" (Lu. 11:29) which is the death and resurrection
of Jesus Christ through faith and repentance.
(2) It speaks of a "great awakening" or end times revival. The Bible
does not paint that picture but rather one of apostasy (2 Th. 2:11, 2 Pe.
2:1, Matt. 24) and a great turning away from the love of the truth (2 Th.
2:10).
(3) What "mighty power" are they talking about? Since it is not articulated,
it could be any mighty power, including the power of the enemy. These things
need to be spelled out in Christian songs because so many people are calling
on any "power" these days.
(4) It talks about the "latter rain". The Latter Rain is a false
doctrinal system of end times revival and impartation of a false anointing.
The latter rain has already fallen at Pentecost and the Holy Spirit is
available to all men through salvation in Jesus Christ today. We're not
waiting for a latter rain, we are already living in the time of the latter
rain since Pentecost.
(5) It speaks of "restoration". Restorationism is another false eschatological
doctrine that states the Church will take over the systems of government
of the world and Christ will rule the earth through His church, not as
a result of His bodily return at the start of the millennium.
As you can see, this is a very dangerous song because of all the false doctrine in the lyrics. Yet it has been played on most Christian radio stations and is used by youth groups. As it is with most unsound doctrinal songs and teachings, error is laid alongside truth (2 Pet. 2:1) to make it more palatable. But the fact is that the message of the song can cause people to be lead astray into doctrines and movements that are not of God, and in fact may lead them into following the coming antichrist.
Great is the Lord, He is holy and just, by His power we trust in His love. Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true, by His mercy He proves He is love. Great is the Lord and worthy of glory, great is the Lord and worthy of praise. Great is the Lord, I lift up my voice, I lift up my voice, great is the Lord, great is the Lord.
This song also has good theology. God truly is holy, just, powerful, trustworthy, faithful, true, merciful, full of love. No matter whether this song is sung a cappella, with a pipe organ, with a guitar or with a rock band, it teaches sound doctrine. Please note that this was written prior to Smith getting involved in the Third Wave.
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not; As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me!
Even in the first verse and chorus of this great hymn it teaches us many important core sound doctrinal concepts.
(1) God is faithful.
(2) God never changes.
(3) God is always compassionate.
(4) Gods mercies are new every morning.
(5) God provides for His children.
The doctrines presented in this song are all supported by the whole Scripture, both in word and in testimony.
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised! (repeat 16x)
I lift my hands i praise you lord
I bow my head i honor you lord
I lift my hands i praise you lord
I bow my head i honor you lord
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
I lift my hands i praise you lord
I bow my head i honor you lord
I lift my hands i praise you lord
I bow my head i honor you lord!
key change
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy to be praised
Hallelujah you're worthy TO BE PRAISED!...
instrumental break
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah, lord we lift you up!
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah, lord we lift you up!
(guitar solo)
Lord we lift you up!
(gutar solo)
Lord we lift you up!
(sopranos)
Halleljuah youre worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah,
(all)
lord we lift you up!
(altos)
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah,
(all)
Lord we lift you up!
(tenors)
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah,
Lord we lift you up!
ALL
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah,
Lord we lift you up!
Halleljuah you're worthy!
Hallelujah we praise your name
Hallelujah so worthy
Hallelujah,
Lord we lift you up!
LORD WE LIFT YOU UP
LORD WE LIFT YOU UP
LORD WE LIFT YOU UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The repetitive nature of these lyrics is unfortunate. The words are generally good, though I get tired of being pressured into raising my hands in so many modern worship songs. I'm sure the performance by this choir is inspiring though I have not heard the song but have heard songs by them before. I just wish more could be said about the Lord that would teach people about Who He is.
Two months is too little
They let him go
They had no sudden healing
To think that providence
Would take a child from his mother
While she prays, is appalling
Who told us we'd be rescued
What has changed and
Why should we be saved from nightmares
We're asking why this happens to us
Who have died to live, it's unfair
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We'd be held
This hand is bitterness
We want to taste it and
Let the hatred numb our sorrows
The wise hand opens slowly
To lilies of the valley and tomorrow
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We'd be held
If hope if born of suffering
If this is only the beginning
Can we not wait, for one hour
Watching for our Savior
This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We'd be held
Good song about suffering and the love of Jesus. A little awkward as a worship song. Better as a performance song but the message of being held by God is a good one.
Is. 41:13 For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right
hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
Hughes wrote this song after reading Philippians 2. That is the good part. The problem with it is that it is heavy on the self more than on God. It seems to be about trying to impress God with man's worship. Case in point: the song uses "you" in refering to God 11 times whereas it refers to I, me and my 23 times. Most postmoderns would not even notice that point as the music they listen to is full of references to themselves. Many modern Christian "worship and praise" songs are full of more references to self than to God. This would be a better song if they had taken out all the references to self.
Crowder has changed the orginal lyrics from "sloppy wet kiss" to "and heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss and my heart turns violently inside of my chest". The author has apparently gotten flak about the "sloppy wet kiss" lyric because some, like Crowder, are changing his original lyric. You can see, if you look on the web however, that most groups and churches, such as Bill Johnson's "Bethel Church" are still using the original lyric. This kind of lyric is popular with the Mike Bickle/IHOP crowd who regularly refer to Jesus in sexual terms.
There's a voice that cries out in the silence,
searching for a heart that will love Him,
longing for a child that will give Him their all,
give it all, He wants it all
And there's a God that walks over the earth,
He's searching for a heart that is desperate,
And longing for a child that will give him their
all,
give it all, He wants it all
And He says, "Love Me, love Me with your whole heart
He wants it all today
serve Me, serve Me with your life now
He wants it all today
bow down, let go of your idols
He wants it all today (x3)
He wants it all
And there's a God that walks over the earth,
He's searching for a heart that is desperate,
longing for a child that will give Him their all,
give it all, He wants it all
And He says, love Me, love Me with your whole heart
He wants it all today
serve Me, serve Me with your life now
He wants it all today
bow down, let go of your idols
He wants it all today (x3)
He wants it all
All of you, more of you
He wants it all today oh oh oh oh ( x2 2nd & 3rd
line)
All of you more of you
He wants it all today, today, today
He wants it all today, He wants it all today
so give it all
There is a voice that cries out in the silence,
searching for a heart that will love Him,
longing for a child that will give Him their all,
give it all
He wants it all
The problem with this song is that it implies that some men and women are "desperate" for God when the Bible is clear that none seek God (Ps. 14:2-3, 53:2-3, Rom. 3:10-18) but that it is God who seeks us. Romans 10:20 And Isaiah boldly says, "I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me." Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins (John 16:8), opens our blind eyes (Acts 26:18), and then gives us a choice whether to believe and follow Him or not (Acts 16:31). Finally, if God had waited for men to seek Him He would not have sent His Son to die for our sins "while we were yet sinners" (Rom. 5:8).
Holy Fire burn away,
My desire for anything
That is not of you and is of me.
I want more of you and less of me.
Holy Fire burn away,
My desire for anything
That is not of you and is of me,
I want more of you and less of me, yeah.
Empty me,
Empty me, yeah,
Fill, won't you fill me,
With you, with you, yeah.
Holy Fire, burn away,
My desire for anything
That is not of you and is of me.
I want more of you and less of me, yeah.
Empty me,
Empty me, yeah.
Fill, won't you fill me, with you, with you, empty
me now.
Well won't you empty me, well won't you empty me now.
repeat x2
I want more, I want more, I want more of you, Jesus.
I want more, I want more, oh.
Thank you, Jesus.
Thank you, Jesus, oh yeah,
Thank you, Jesus, yeah.
Holy Fire, Holy Fire, Holy Fire, Holy Fire.
There are a couple problems with this song. Though it is admirable
to want to be filled with the Spirit, it is not biblical to ask for emptiness.
We are to be filled with the Holy Spirit and even ask for it for the purposes
of serving the Lord and His purposes, but we are never to seek emptiness
in doing so. 1 Peter 1:13 Therefore gird up the loins
of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that
is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and
of a sound mind. When God's Spirit moves it is never in
spite of the human mind but in concert with a mind dedicated and committed
to Him. This song then is promoting exactly what the Third Wave has
been promoting for decades which is to (1) empty your mind, leave it at
the door and do not pray so that you can (2) receive a transferable impartation
from someone else, which is entirely unbiblical. This is another
example of a song which can be taken in a figurative way but which was
written to get people into the mood to receive "slain in the spirit".
There's nothing worth more
That will ever come close
Nothing can compare
You're our Living Hope
Your Presence
I've tasted and seen
Of the sweetest of loves
Where my heart becomes free
And my shame is undone
Your presence Lord
Holy Spirit You are welcome here
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere
Your glory God is what our hearts long for
To be overcome by Your presence Lord
Your presence Lord
There's nothing worth more
That will ever come close
Nothing can compare
You're our Living Hope
Your presence
I've tasted and seen
Of the sweetest of loves
Where my heart becomes free
And my shame is undone
Your presence Lord
Holy Spirit You are welcome here
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere
Your glory God is what our hearts long for
To be overcome by Your presence Lord
(Repeat)
(end)
Let us become more aware of Your presence
Let us experience the glory of Your goodness
(Repeat)
Lord
Holy Spirit You are welcome here
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere
Your glory God is what our hearts long for
To be overcome by Your presence Lord
Not surprisingly, this song is from Bethel Church attendees. They
are continuing the same mantra used in the Toronto "Blessing" of invoking
and summoning the Holy Spirit. But since this is not a biblical activity
it gives an opportunity to the enemy to come into meetings and deceive
which has been happening all the way back to William Branham, through Paul
Cain and John Wimber, Benny Hinn, Rodney Howard Browne, John Arnott, Steve
Hill and is now being carried on by aposate cultic churches like Bethel.
Please do not use this song in your church service or else you may be summoning
something other than the Holy Spirit, Who has already promised to be present
where two or three believers are gathered together (Matt. 18:20).
I see the king of glory
Coming down the clouds with fire
The whole earth shakes, the whole earth shakes
I see his love and mercy
Washing over all our sin
The people sing, the people sing
Hosanna, hosanna
Hosanna in the highest
I see a generation
Rising up to take the place
With selfless faith, with selfless faith
I see a new revival
Staring as we pray and seek
We're on our knees, we're on our knees
Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like you have loved me
Break my heart for what is yours
Everything I am for your kingdom's cause
As I walk from earth into eternity
The Bible does not speak of an end times revival (with the exception
of when the remnant of Israel finally acknowledges Jesus Christ as Messiah
in the Tribulation) but rather a generation the has slipped into apostasy.
2
Thessalonians 2:3 Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not
come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is
revealed, the son of destruction, The falling away (apostasy) will
come before the antichrist is revealed and is a mark of the end times.
1 Timothy 4:1 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some
will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits
and doctrines of demons, So the generation in our day, which is clearly
the end times, is a generation that is falling away. This generation
does not exhibit a "selfless faith" because they have, by in large, abandoned
preaching the Gospel to all nations, sacrificing their lives to do mission
work, and instead are intent on getting some kind of Gnostic revival by
way of "slain in the spirit" and other unbiblical methods.
If you pray for revival yet are teaching and practicing unbiblical things,
you will not get a revival from God but a revival of spiritism, which is
what we see happening all over the world today. This is yet another
example of how Christians need to be very wary of songs from Hillsong.
Great song about Jesus' death on the cross to save us because of God's love for us!
Good song because it extols the Biblical virtues of God, particularly the Trinity, which is so much under attack in Christendom today.
I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk
By Your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes will see
When Your face
Is before me
I can only imagine, yeah
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for You, Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
When that day comes
And I find myself
Standing in the Son
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for You, Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for You, Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine
Jude 1:24 Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, The only problem with this song is that "I", "me" and "my" are repeated 42 times if you sing all the verses and choruses. Hence the lower rating.
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
Verse 1:
Here I am
Here I stand
Lord, my life is in your hands
Lord, I’m longing to see
Your desires revealed in me
I give myself away
Verse 2:
Take my heart
Take my life
As a living sacrifice
All my dreams, all my plans
Lord I place them in your hands
Chorus:
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
Chorus:
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
Bridge(7X):
My life is not my own
To you I belong
I give myself, I give myself to You
Chorus:
I give myself away
I give myself away
So You can use me
Good song about surrendering your life to the Lord. James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. But too much repetition and the use of "I", "me" and "my.
There is only one problem with this song. The lyrics are fine except for the typical repetition of "I" and "my". But the problem comes with the repitition of "I lift my hands to believe again". I don't like songs that manipulate the congregation into doing and singing things they may not agree with. Songs that force people with peer pressure to raise their hands in worship are not really suitable for use in the Church. I have no problem with raising hands, although it can be a distraction to actual worship when people are trying to show how "holy" they are, but if someone does not want to raise their hands they will feel obligated to do so in singing this song. But then why are they raising their hands according to the song? Because they want to "believe again". But what if you have never stopped believing? How can you believe again if belief has never stopped, which would be the mark of a true believer. I would not feel comfortable singing this song because it does not reflect my heart. Songs like this should rather be performace songs reflecting the experience of the person performing them instead of used for worship songs where people may not agree with them. I see too many songs in this category today. Better not to use them for your church.
This would have been a great song if not for two lyrics. The first one is "light of the world by darkness slain". If he had said "light of the world in darkness slain" that would be correct as the sky turned dark during the daytime when Jesus died (Matt. 27:45). But Jesus was not slain by darkness or by the devil as many Word of Faith teachers claim. Jesus laid down His own life for the purpose of redemption. John 10:17 The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. The second problem is the line "no scheme of man could ever pluck me from His hand". Yet the Bible warns us to beware of the schemes of men. Ephesians 4:14 As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; Matthew 7:15 “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves". It is clear that we are to grow to maturity as Christians or else we can be carried off into heresy, especially by false teachers. Those who are carried off by the schemes of men can end up believing in vain (1 Cor. 15:2). God holds those in His hand who continue to believe in Him and obey Him and hold on till the end (Heb. 3:6). Those who choose to walk away should not blame God.
I've lost some good friends along life's way
Some loved ones departed in heaven to stay
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I've lost faith in people who said they cared
In time of my crisis they were never there
But in my disappointment, in my season of pain
One thing never wavered, one thing never changed
I never lost my hope,
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all, I never lost my praise
My praise is still here,
My praise is still here
I've let some blessings slip away
When I lost my focus and went astray
But thank God I didn't lose everything
I lost possessions that were so dear
I lost some battles walking in fear
But in the midst of my struggles, in my season of
pain
One thing never wavered, one thing never changed
I never lost my hope,
I never lost my joy
I never lost my faith
But most of all, I never lost my praise
Praise, Praise, Praise, Praise, Praise
Most of all, I never lost my praise
My praise still here,
My praise still here
Of course these lyrics beg the question a bit: Who never lost their praise? It would have been nice to state clearly that it was God Who never lost their praise. I guess that is supposed to be implied. But this could also be used as a relationship song with a husband or wife, etc. This is more of a performance/concert song rather than a praise and worship song, since it is fundamentally about the person singing it.
I receive You, O Spirit of love, how I need your healing from above, I receive you. I receive You, I receive your healing from above. I can feel Your power on me now. I can feel Your power on me now. I can feel you, touching me right now, Come reveal Your power on me now, I can feel You. I can feel You. I can feel Your power on me now. I can feel Your power on me now.
Another catchword of the Third Wave is talk about the Holy Spirit in terms of a power "on" someone. This song uses hypnotic induction to get people to think that what they feel is the power of God without any objective evidence. How can a person prove they are "feeling" the power of God? The most important evidence is that we tell the truth and live the truth, and show the fruit of the Spirit. How can a person singing this song claim to be telling the truth when they cannot prove in any objective way that the "feeling" of the "power on" them is God and not simply emotions or another spirit. This is not the fruit of the Spirit of truth. We do not lie to people to get them to experience something. The end does not justify the means. We tell them the truth and then if they experience the hand of God in their lives it is because they are living in the truth, worshipping God in Spirit and in truth. Also, why would you want to sing a song to God telling Him that you "feel" Him? Imagine standing in front of Jesus Christ in person and singing a song saying "I can feel you". Whether or not you actually felt Him, would that be the point? Would it not be better to worship and praise Him at His feet?
Verse I
I know the odds are stacked against you
And it seems there's no way out
I know the issue seems unchangeable
And that there's no reason to shout
But the impossible is God's chance
To work a miracle, a miracle
So just know
Chorus
It ain't over until God says it's over
It ain't over until God says it's done
It ain't over until God says it's over
Keep fighting until your victory is won
Verse II
He never said it would be easy
But you're a winner in the end
Jesus defeated all your enemies
Way before the fight began
But the impossible is God's chance
To work a miracle, a miracle
So just know
Chorus
Bridge
When people say you can't, remember
(He can, He can)
When you don't know what to do,
Please remember
(He has the master plan)
He will free you from your sin
And give you peace within
So hold your head up high
You're gonna win
(You're gonna win)
Chorus
Vamp
Keep fighting, keep praying, keep fasting
It ain't over, no
Keep pressing, progressing, keep moving
It ain't over, no
Keep reading, interceding, keep believing
It ain't over, no
Keep trusting, keep trying, keep travailing
It ain't over, no
Keep living, keep giving, keep going
It ain't over, no (8x)
Keep fighting until your victory is won
This is a good biblical song in that the Lord tells us to keep fighting for the victory.
1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
He gives us victory over sin and then as we continue to repent and go His way He gives us many victories over our old man.
1 John 5:4 for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This
is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the
victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Finally He gives us the ultimate victory of salvation when we are resurrected and join Him for His millennial reign and later in the new heaven and new earth.
1 Corinthians 15:54-55 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"
The only small problem I have with this song is lumping in fasting with fighting, praying, reading, interceding, believing, etc. Fasting doesn't quite rise to the necessity level of the other things mentioned in this song, though fasting is something that has it's obvious physical, mental and spiritual merits.
John 21:19 This He spoke, signifying by what death he would
glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, "Follow Me."
It is a nice sentiment to sing that you could sing of the love of Christ forever. However, there are a couple of serious problems with this song. As stated previously this song has too few lyrics which means you will be repeating those scant lyrics over and over again. There is also an untruth in the song. When the world sees the return of Christ they will not be dancing, nor are they dancing now in anticipation. They will not dance with joy but be sorrowful. Luke 13:28 “There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out. The world neither knows Him or those who are true believers. It is clear that the world follows the devil and does not rejoice at the coming of the Messiah, but rather joins with the anitchrist to fight Him. 1 John 3:1 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. Revelation 13:3 One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was filled with wonder and followed the beast. Revelation 13:8 All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world. Revelation 16:14 They are demonic spirits that perform signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty. I don't know where those who wrote this song got their theology, but this is yet another reason to test all Hillsong music.
I've been walking with a big grin
Singing with my eyes closed
Lifting up my hands
I've been lost in the moment
Sending up praises
Now I think I understand
When I open up and let it flow
I felt your touch and then I know
[chorus]
I can never live without it
And I'm never gonna doubt it
Everyday is new, yeah
There's nothing any better
I'll be singing it forever I worship you
I'm standing on the edge now
Looking for a new place
Going deeper still
The feeling is electric
The power and the glory
Just move me where you will
Cause you take a song and make it fly
Into my soul and that is why
[chorus]
I just want to dive into your grace
I want to feel your presence,
seek your face
I just want to be where you are
I can never live without it
And i'm never gonna doubt it
Everyday is new, yeah (repeat)
[chorus]
For the uninitiated and those who somehow don't know about the Third Wave, this song is describing experiencing the "transferable impartation" or "slain in the spirit" - "opening up" and "letting it flow", the "feeling is electric", "diving into "grace"", "feeling His presence", etc. These lyrics are not meant to be figurative but are describing exactly what happens in the experience of getting some kind of of unbiblical "anointing". The Third Wave has long promoted just opening up and jumping into "the river". They want you to stop thinking and start experiencing what they are doling out, but what they are doing is no different that the practice of Kundalini "Shaktipat" from India. This is the same experience the followers of Bahgwan Shree Rajneesh experienced. The feeling of electricity is exactly what Benny Hinn, Rodney Howard Brown and others have described what happened to them and what they attempt to pass on to others.
Read these articles on the "new" anointing:
The NEW Anointing
by Mike Oppenheimer, Let Us Reason Ministries
Shocking
facts about Benny Hinn...
The New Violence of
the holy Spirit? by Mike Oppenheimer, Let Us Reason Ministries
There are many more articles on the Third Wave/Word of Faith practice of "slain in the spirit" which are available on the Apologetics Coordination Team.
For these reasons I do not recommend this song for any Biblical church
as it is simply introducing a practice that is not biblical.
I give You all the honour
And praise that’s due Your name
For You are the King of Glory
The creator of all things
And I worship You
I give my life to You
I fall down on my knees
As Your Spirit moves upon me now
You meet my deepest need
And I lift my hands up to Your throne
Your mercy I’ve received
And I worship You
I give my life to You
I fall down on my knees
You have broken chains that bound me
You have set this captive free
I will lift my voice to praise Your name
Through all eternity
And I worship You
I give my life to You
I fall down on my knees
Yes I worship You
I give my life to You
I fall down on my knees
Generally older songs by publishers such as Vineyard, particularly pre 1986 or so, are predominantly good songs. Fortunately this song was apparently written before Vineyard people started falling on their backs!
On the last day of God's creation
Blood will flow from stone
Earthquakes will destroy Your nation
And swallow the king's throne
And flood will follow fire
To wash away the stains
So finally he can rest in peace
Now nothing of man remains
In the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God
Now time was man's invention
For regulating his ways
But time has lost its meaning
In cities of eternal days
And every city became Sodom
Man bore the mark of Cain
Until God raised atomic fire
Now nothing of man remains
In the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God
Now the last traces fade away
Of his creation gone wrong
Fish return to the rivers
And whales sing their ocean song
The bears roam in the mountains
And buffaloes roam the plains
Eagles fly in freedom
Now nothing of man remains
In the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God
Let silence be the music
That settles on the Earth
And hunger be the rhythm
That drowns man's last words
And let melody be the sound
Of the wind and the lashing rain
Blowing away man's harmonies
Until nothing of him remains
In the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God
So nothing of man remains
In the kingdom of God
The kingdom of God
This sounds like some environmentalist view of the new earth, or the Millennial Kingdom. But it has some glaring flaws according to what the Bible teaches. "Now nothing of man remains" is a misnomer. Yes, the works of the flesh will be swallowed up in the victory of Jesus Christ establishing His promised physical Kingdom on earth, finally putting an end to the dominion of the devil. But the works that come from faith remain as well as those who have been part of the Rapture and will rule and judge the nations and angels with Christ. Eph. 2:6-9 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Our works by the grace of God through faith will shine forever. So something of man DOES remain in the Kingdom and beyond. 1 Cor. 6:2-3 Or do you not know that the Lord’s people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! There is also this phrase: "Now time was man's invention". Time was not man's invention but a constraint put on mankind by the Creator God Who is not constrained by time. We can be thankful to the Lord that He will reward those who have been faithful to Him with eternal life and crowns. These will be evident forever. Sorrow, tears, pain, sin and death will be gone forever (Rev. 21:4), and even the memory of this life will fade (Is. 65:17), but the good works through faith will remain shining forever (1 Pet. 5:4)
"Kiss me with the kisses of your mouth
Your love is better than wine
Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfume
No wonder the maidens love you
Take me away with you, let's hurry
Let the king bring me into His chamber"
Other tracks include: "All Night Long," "My Lover," "Faint with Love." (Orrel Steinkamp, The Plumbline, Volume 14, No. 2, March/April 2009) Again, it is blasphemous to refer to God in a sexual way. Though the ideas are take from the Song of Solomon that book is looking forward to the relationship between Jesus Christ and His Church or bride, not a sexual relationship with God.
Where did these people get their inspiration for this new wave of "worshipping" God by promoting a spiritual/sexual union with God? It comes from the same Catholic mystics that the Emerging Church people have been studying (instead of their Bibles, I might add).
The writings of mystics in the Middle Ages echo the passion of the Song of Solomon and indicate the intimacy which characterized their relationship with their Saviour.Looks like Heather Clark and the others lyrics mimic these ideas from Madame Guyon, a mystic and pantheist.Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
(1090-1153)St Bernard, from France, was the compiler of the Rule of the Order of Knights Templar. He wrote eighty-six sermons on the Canticle (Song of Songs). Towards the end of his life Bernard attempted to describe how he himself experienced the coming of the Word â€â€ś the Bridegroom â€â€ś to the soul.
You ask, then, how I knew that He was present, since His ways are past finding out? Because the Word is liv-ing and effective, and as soon as ever He entered into me, He has aroused my sleeping soul, and stirred and softened and pricked my heart, that hitherto was sick and hard as stone. He has begun to pluck up and destroy, to build and to plant, to water the dry places and shed light upon the dark, to open what was shut, to warm the chill, to make the crooked straight and the rough places plain; so that my soul has blessed the Lord and all that is within me praised His Holy Name. Thus has the Bridegroom entered into me.[3]Hildegard of Bingen
(1098-1179)Hildegard claimed to see visions from a young age. She wrote,
"Creation is allowed in intimate love to speak to the Creator as if to a lover. As the Creator loves the creation, so the creation loves the Creator. The whole world has been embraced by this kiss."[2]Gertrude the Great was a nun of the abbey of Helfta in Saxony. Her devotional "Exercise of Divine Love," uses the Song of Songs as part of a step by step progression on the road to God. The text admonishes:At Lauds, pray that you be taught the art of Love; At Prime, that you be led into the school of love with God as a teacher and master; At Terce, that you learn the alphabet with which the Spirit writes his law of love on your heart; At Sext, that you learn to know the Lord not only by syllables but also by theory; At None, that you be accepted into the militia of love and bound by oath; At Vespers, that you march in the armor of love and triumph over evil; At Compline, that you become oblivious to the world and be consummated in loving union with God.She continues in a more amorous vein:Ah! Show me your face and let me contemplate your radiance. Lo, "your face," which the most beautiful dawn of divinity illuminates, "is pleasant and comely" (6:3). Miraculously, your cheeks blush with "omega" and "alpha" (Apocalypse 1:8). Very bright eternity burns inextinguishably in your eyes. There God's salvation glows as red for me as a lamp. There radiant charity sports merrily with luminous truth. The scent of life breathes forth from you to me. â€Ĺ“Honey and milk drip down from your mouth" (4:11) to me." [3]John of the Cross wrote "The Spiritual Canticle of the Soul and the Bridegroom Christ" in the 16th century.O you soul, then, most beautiful of creatures, who so long to know the place where your Beloved is, that you may seek Him, and be united to Him, you know now that you are yourself that very tabernacle where He dwells, the secret chamber of His retreat where He is hidden. Rejoice, therefore, and exult, because all your good and all your hope is so near you as to be within you; or, to speak more accurately, that you can not be without it, "for lo, the kingdom of God is within you." So says the Bridegroom Himself, and His servant, St. Paul, adds: "You are the temple of the living God." What joy for the soul to learn that God never abandons it, even in mortal sin; how much less in a state of grace! "Courage, then, O soul most beautiful, you know now that your Beloved, Whom you desire, dwells hidden within your breast; strive, therefore, to be truly hidden with Him, and then you shall embrace Him, and be conscious of His presence with loving affection. [4]The "Friends of God"Henry Suso (c. 1295-1366) was a part of the "Friends of God", a loosely constituted and informal but wide-spread spiritual and mystical movement. In his written answer to Elizabeth Stäglin who begged to be told more of what God is, he wrote:
Ah, gentle God, if Thou art so lovely in Thy creatures, how exceedingly beautiful and ravishing Thou must be in Thyself. "Come, daughter, thou hast now found thy God, whom thy heart has so long sought after. Look upwards, then, with sparkling eyes and radiant face and bounding heart, and behold Him and embrace Him with the infinite outstretched warms of thy soul and thy affection, and give thanks and praise to Him, the noble Prince of all creatures.One of his contemporaries, Flemish mystic Jan van Ruysbroek (1293-1381), author of the "Adornment of the Spiritual Marriage", also explored the inward life and described:The pure soul feels a constant fire of love, which desires above all things to be one with God, and the more the soul obeys the attraction of God the more it feels it, and the more it feels it the more it desires to be one with God.[4]Developments in the ReformationMadame Guyon (1647-1717). French mystic. Her written works include, "The Song of Songs of Solomon."
VERSE 1. Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth.
THIS kiss, which the soul desires of its God, is essential union, or a real, permanent and lasting possession of its divine object. It is the SPIRITUAL MARRIAGE. ... This, then, is the lofty and intimate union that the Spouse so pressingly demands at the hand of the Bridegroom. She asks it of Him as though she was addressing another; an impetuous sally of love, giving vent to her passion without particular thought as to whom she was speaking. Let Him kiss me, says she, since He can do it, but let it be with the kisses of His mouth; no other union can content me; that alone can satisfy all my desires, and that is what I demand.[5] (Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridal_theology)
As I just stated, these people are some of the influences and mentors for Emerging Church leaders such as Brian McLaren, Leonard Sweet, Richard Foster and a whole host of others. John Wimber, whose CORE group that initially implemented his Vineyard movement, was teaching Bridal theology. Today many others in the New Apostolic Reformation such as Mike Bickle (IHOP and Bridegroom Movement), other Kansas City Prophets, C. Peter Wagner and his New Apostolic "apostles" are following the ideas of the above heretics and mystics of the Catholic Church. They are leading the churches further and further into apostasy. If these people are promoting some kind of sexual relationship with their so-called "Jesus" we need to rebuke them and if they refuse to discontinue their adherence to this music and the false teachings of Mike Bickle, then we need to mark and avoid them.
Those promoting this movement and its music are a leaven that is leavening
the whole lump. If your church has not been leavened yet I suggest
you get the leaven out before it activates and you have no choice but to
leave your church.
When the stars came crashing down
In tiny pieces to the ground
I was all alone down here
Trapped beneath the atmosphere
Then I, thought somebody called my name
I spun around and caught a flame
I gave into a God I didn't know
And now everything is falling into place
A brand new life is calling and I owe it all to grace
It's so much brighter living in your world
Savior what you did for me
You gave me something I want everyone to see
When we stumble and it all goes wrong
Only you can make it right
So I say oh oh oh oh oh
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
When a heart is cold as ice
You can't melt it with advice
No one wants to listen to
A list of things they shouldn't do
So I build a city on a hill
And I light a candle on the sill
Knowing you'll be always knocking at the door
Oh God I just want to love on everyone
All I have is yours to give so let the people come
It's so much brighter living in your world
Savior what you did for me
You gave me something I want everyone to see
When we stumble and it all goes wrong
Only you can make it right
So I say oh oh oh oh oh
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
im learning to be the light
that makes the shadows hide
the light that breaks the curse of pride
the light that takes the weary in it's arms
When it all came crashing down
There was only darkness all around
But in the distance I could see
A Flame
It's So much brighter living in your world
Savior what you did for me
You gave me something I want everyone, and I mean
everyone to see
When we stumble and it all goes wrong
Only you can make it right
So I say oh oh oh oh oh
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
whoa, whoa
I'm learning to be the light
I'm sure a lot of this song is what could be termed "poetic license". However, worship songs need to be specific to be useful. There is obviously no time when the stars actually came "crashing down in tiny pieces on the ground". What kind of "flame" can be caught? We are not to give in to a "god" we do not know but come to know the true God through His Son. There is no mention of that in this song. Another issue I have with this song is that it sounds like they may not have repented of theri sins when they says "No one wants to listen to a list of things he shouldn't do". The Bible says we must recognize we are sinners and do not measure up to the One True Holy God. I hate to tell them but there ARE things we should and should not do. I will give the authors credit for saying that the "light" breaks the curse of pride, but it is not enough to have our pride broken. We also need to repent and turn to Christ, making Him our Lord. This song is their personal testimony and should not be used as a worship song because it lacks enough biblical support.
O God You are my God
And I will ever praise You
O God You are my God
And I will ever praise You
May my prayer like incense rise before You
Lifting up my life as sacrifice
Oh Lord Jesus turn Your eyes upon me
For I know there is mercy in Your sight
Your statutes are my heritage forever
My heart is set on keeping Your decrees
Please still my anxious urge toward rebellion
Let Love keep my will upon its knees
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
To all creation I can see a limit
But Your commands are boundless and have none
So Your Word is my joy and meditation
From the rising to the setting of the sun
All Your ways are loving and are faithful
The road is narrow but Your burden light
Because You gladly lean to lead the humble
I shall gladly kneel to leave my pride
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
Oh God, You are my God
And I will ever praise You
I will seek You in the morning
And I will learn to walk in Your ways
And step by step You'll lead me
And I will follow You all of my days
And I will follow You all of my days
And I will follow You all of my days
And step by step You'll lead me
And I will follow You all of my days
Generally a good song obviously inspired by Ps. 119. The one aspect I wish had been enumerated is that the "statutes" and "decrees" we are to obey and follow today are the law of Christ, not the Old Testament Mosaic Law from which Christ freed us through his death and resurrection. Romans 8:2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death (the Mosaic Law). If this song is sung with the understanding that you cannot be justified by obeying the Mosaic Law (Gal. 2:16, 3:11), since no one can obey it (except that Jesus did) then it is proper to say that we will obey the commands of Jesus Christ. John 14:15 If you love me, keep my commands.
Jesus, I've forgotten the words that You have spoken
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown
dim
With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly
wisdom
Forgive me for my unbelief
Renew the fire again
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
I have built an altar where I worship things of men
I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from
You
Now I am returning to Your mercies ever flowing
Pardon my transgressions
Help me love You again
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
I have longed to know You and Your tender mercies
Like a river of forgiveness ever flowing without end
I bow my heart before You in the goodness of Your
presence
Your grace forever shining
Like a beacon in the night
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy
Lord have mercy on me
Smith has been promoting the New Apostolic and now the Emergent Church for some time. This song shows the influence the Catholic mystics have had over him. The chorus is taken directly from the "Litany of the most sacred heart of Jesus" from the liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church (http://www.jesusiam.com/jesus_litany.pdf). It is not bad to ask for mercy from Jesus but simply repeating this litany over and over again will not force mercy from the Lord. Matt. 6:7 And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. Mindless repetition is exactly what the RCC promotes with their endless liturgies. Yet many "Protestants" are now headed back to the pagan ways of the RCC in many respects via the Emergent Church movement. The second problem with this song is that it is not particularly worshipful to sing about your failures to the Lord in unison since they may or may not apply to the individual. Again, what we look for is worshipping God "in sprit and in truth" and if you are singing this song and (1) sinning the sins mentioned yet not planning to repent of them or (2) not sinning those sins yet singing those words trying to convince yourself that you have sinned does not being people to unity of the Faith.
(Verse)
Lord, I lift Your name on high
Lord, I love to sing Your praises
I'm so glad You're in my life
I'm so glad You came to save us
(Chorus)
You came from heaven to earth
To show the way
From the earth to the cross
My debt to pay
From the cross to the grave
From the grave to the sky
Lord, I lift Your name on high
Exodus 15:2 The LORD is my strength and my defense ; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. Psalm 9:2 I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.
Well, I know this life is filled with sorrow
And there are days when the pain just lasts and lasts
But I know there will come a day
When all our tears are washed away with a break in
the clouds
His glory coming down and in that moment
Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
That God is love and love has come for us all
Every heart set free, every one will see
That God is love and love has come for us all
For anybody who has ever lost a loved one
And you feel like you had to let go too soon
I know it hurts to say goodbye
But don't you know it's just a matter of time till
the tears are gonna end
You'll see them once again and in that moment
Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
That God is love and love has come for us all
Every heart set free, every one will see
That God is love and love has come for us all
Oh, and on that day we will stand amazed
At our Savior, God and King
Just to see the face of amazing grace
As our hearts rise up and sing
Glory, glory, hallelujah
Thank You for the cross
Singing glory, glory, hallelujah
Christ has paid the cost
Glory, glory, hallelujah
Thank You for the cross
Singing glory, glory
Christ has paid the cost
And every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
That God is love and love has come for us all
Every heart set free, every one will see
That God is love and love has come for us all
Love has come for us all
Love has come for us all
And every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
God is love and love has come for us all
Every heart set free, every one will see
God is love and love has come for us all
Every knee shall bow, every tongue confess
God is love and love has come for us all
Every heart set free, every one will see
God is love and love has come for us all
I don't know about the background of this composer but there are some serious problems with this song. (1) The Bible does not say that "every knee shall bow, every tongue confess that God is love and love has come for us all". It says in Romans 14:11 "For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." Believers will confess that Jesus Christ is their Savior and unbelievers will have to acknowledge that Jesus Christ is God though it is too late to do so and be saved. (2) This song implies that anybody who has lost a loved one will see them again. We don't know this for sure with the exception that Christians will be reunited with their loved ones. Unbelievers are to stand before the Great White Throne judgment and then go on to eternal punishement. (3) "Love has come for us all" is true in the sense that Jesus Christ died for the sins of all men, but when He returns He returns in judgment on those who have not believed. This song sounds like Inclusivism or Universalism. I do not recommend using this song in any biblical church.
Majesty
Worship His majesty
Unto Jesus, be all glory
Honor, and praise
Majesty
Kingdom authority
Flow from His throne
Unto His own
His anthem raise
Majesty
Worship His majesty
Unto Jesus, be all glory
Honor, and praise
Majesty
Kingdom authority
Flow from His throne
Unto His own
His anthem raise
So exalt, lift up on high
The name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify
Christ Jesus the King
Majesty
Worship His majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified
King of all Kings
So exalt, lift up on high
The name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify
Christ Jesus the King
Majesty
Worship His majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified
King of all Kings
This is another song that has been sung for decades by many churches. But this song was written by Jack Hayford who is fully supportive of the New Apostolic Reformation and their Dominionist agenda. False teachers are known for laying error alongside truth. This song has a clever way of inserting a Dominonist theme inside of worship words. Most Christians I know have never noticed this. I did many years ago before I knew Hayfords affiliations and teachings. Christians only have "Kingdom authority" as long as they are preaching the Gospel and discipling Christians from all nations. Jesus is establishing His spiritual Kingdom in the hearts of men now, and when He comes again He will establish His physical Kingdom on earth in fulfillment of the many prophecies of Scripture. The Church will not establish God's physical Kingdom on earth. Only Christ can do that. Read my article called A Tale Of Two Kingdoms by Sandy Simpson, 8/31/11.
Silent as He stood accused
Beaten mocked and scorned
Bowing to the Father's will
He took a crown of thorns
Oh that rugged cross
My salvation
Where Your love poured out over me
Now my soul cries out
Hallelujah
Praise and honour unto Thee
Sent of heaven God's own Son
To purchase and redeem
And reconcile the very ones
Who nailed Him to that tree
Now my debt is paid
It is paid in full
By the precious blood
That my Jesus spilled
Now the curse of sin
Has no hold on me
Whom the Son sets free
Oh is free indeed
See the stone is rolled away
Behold the empty tomb
Hallelujah God be praised
He's risen from the grave
This is a good example of why all songs must be tested, not matter the
source. Hillsong is and organization fully committed to putting out
music that supports the false teachings of the Third Wave. But in
order to sway people over to trusting them so they can bring them into
their paradigm, they also put out good Biblical songs from time to time.
This a an example of that. Just be careful because they generally
add arror to truth in order to deceive, but this is an excellent song.
Everyone needs compassion,
Love that's never failing;
Let mercy fall on me.
Everyone needs forgiveness,
The kindness of a Saviour;
The Hope of nations.
Saviour, He can move the mountains,
My God is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
Jesus conquered the grave.
So take me as You find me,
All my fears and failures,
Fill my life again.
I give my life to follow
Everything I believe in,
Now I surrender.
My Saviour, He can move the mountains,
My God is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
Jesus conquered the grave.
Shine your light and let the whole world see,
We're singing for the glory of the risen King...Jesus
(x2)
My Saviour, He can move the mountains,
My God is Mighty to save,
He is Mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave,
Jesus conquered the grave.
My Saviour, you can move the mountains,
You are mighty to save,
You are mighty to save.
Forever, Author of Salvation,
You rose and conquered the grave,
Yes you conquered the grave
This is a song that has a few minor flaws. I don't like the phrase "I give my life to follow everything I believe in". Technically this is correct but it would have been better stated "I give my life to follow the Savior I believe in". Also Jesus Christ is not the hope of the nations at this point. He is the hope of Christians all over the world but not the nations. As usual, test all Hillsong music.
The more i seek you,
the more i find you
The more i find you, the more I love you
I wanna sit at your feet
drink from the cup in your hand.
Lay back against you and breath, hear your heart
beat
This love is so deep, it's more than I can stand.
I melt in your peace, it's overwhelming
First of all, we are to seek God after we are born again by studying His Word, obeying it, and bringing our petitions and praise before Him in prayer. But the Bible is clear that no one really desires to seek Him.
Romans 3:11 There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God.
He seeks us, convicts us of sin, and opens our blinded eyes so that then we can understand the Gospel and believe. But it is also clear that we are encouraged to seek God for petitions.
Luke 11:10 "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Seeking is good and if we seek according to His will (1 John 5:14) and His Word (John 15:7), then we will find what we ask for, though this is not talking about finding God but finding what we are asking from God according to what we need.
The real problem with this lyric, however, is the resemblance it bears to the Gnostic story that, because John was close to Jesus and leaned on His breast, John received something special above the other Apostles. This is used to bolster the idea of a transferable impartation, for instance, which the Bible does not teach. I am not saying the author is aware of this, but this is a false teaching that crept into Pentecostalism a long time ago and many have been expose to it in one form or another. I heard a guy witnessing to a man in a restaurant some years ago and was happy he was doing it until I heard him tell this yarn. You don't get truth by laying back against Jesus and feeling Him breathe and his heart beat. The author may have meant this figuratively but a whole lot of pantheistic ideas about God have crept in this way via music into the churches. I don't recommend any songs that reduce God to a force, as in those songs which endorse "slain in the spirit" or talk about God being "the air I breathe". God is not only One "What" but also three "Who's" who share all the aspects of deity and personality. To talk about Him as a pantheistic God gives people the wrong impression of His character and how He actually works in the life of the believer.
I climbed up to the highest mountain
I looked all around, couldn't find nobody
Went down into the deepest valley
Looked all around down there, couldn't find nobody
I went across the deep blue sea
Couldn't find one to compare... to your grace, your
love, your mercy
Nobody greater... nobody greater than you
Searched all over... couldn't find nobody
I looked high and low... still couldn't find nobody
Nobody greater... nobody greater no... nobody greater
than you
Nobody can heal... like you can
Oh most holy one you are the Great I am
Awesome in all your ways and mighty is your hand
You are He who carried out redemption's plan
You are He who carried out redemption's plan
Searched all over... couldn't find nobody
I looked high and low... still couldn't find nobody
Nobody greater... nobody greater... nobody greater
than you
Nobody greater... nobody greater... nobody greater than you [repeat, adlib and fade]
There is certainly no one greater than God (Heb. 6:13-14).
"You are my everything, my hearts delight
You are my obsession; I wait for you through the
night
In the morning when I rise I ache for you."
Bridal Identity teachings are a strong influence for an abundance of
intimacy worship songs. These songs are tied to and used by
Mike Bickle and his IHOP (International House Of Prayer). Bickle
is a long time false prophet originally with the Kansas City Prophets,
who is a leader in C. Peter Wagner's "New Apostolic Reformation" and has
been a member and leader in Wagner's "International Coalition of Apostles"
for many years. Anytime to hear a song being used in this way talking
about Jesus Christ, you are seeing blasphemy at work.
Again we have yet another example of defining God in terms of a sexual relationship. That is not a proper definition of God at all. This is also a performance song, not a worship song that should be dung by a congregation. Some Christians think if they just sing a song and repeat it enough that it will become reality for them. But if you sing lyrics that you really don't mean you are lying to God.
Lately, I've been thinking about You
And lately, I've been dreaming of You
And lately, I can't get You out of my head
Get You out of my head
chorus
Something about the ocean
Makes me rise up and praise
Something about the heavens
Makes me stand in awe again
Something about the sunrise
Reminds me of Your faithfulness
Something about the ocean
And I'm lost in love again
I'll sing until I sense a smile
Upon Your great and lovely face
And till I know Your glory's in this place
Your glory's in this place
This is a song about how the creation reflects our God, though God is not named in any way. The problem I have is that the person singing this song is expecting that through the singing of this song God's glory, the Shekinah Glory, will fill the place where they sing this. Yet no man can invoke God, summon God, or sing any magic formula to command God. The true God of Christianity is sovereign. The glory cloud was over Israel, in the tabernacle and in the temple. But where is the glory of the Lord today? It is within each believer (2 Cor. 3:18, 1 Pet. 4:14) and in the Church as a whole (Eph. 3:21) by virtue of them being the collective bride of Christ. The idea of the Shekinah Glory being in churches today is an idea from the Third Wave, New Apostolic movement which is a dangerous misunderstanding of Scripture. That is not how God is working in this time. Jesus Christ will return in His glory (Matt. 24:30). Till then we believe in Him who we have not seen (John 20:29).
1 Peter 2:5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a
spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices
acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Psalm 54:6 I will sacrifice
a freewill offering to you; I will praise your name, LORD, for it is good.
Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to
God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess
his name. The point is that it is not just singing
that brings praise to God. The most important thing is that we openly
profess His name, not just in church but before the world through the Gospel.
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
Washed my sins away (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When my Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
He washed my sins away
He taught me how (oh, He taught me how)
To watch (to watch, to watch)
Fight and pray (to fight and pray)
Fight and pray
And he taught me how to live rejoicing
yes, He did (and live rejoicing)
Oh yeah, every, every day (every, every day)
(oh yeah) Every day!
Oh happy day (oh happy day)
Oh happy day, yeah (oh happy day)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When my Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
When Jesus washed (when Jesus washed)
My sins away (oh happy day)
I'm talking about that happy day (oh happy day)
He taught me how (oh yeah, how)
To watch (to watch)
Fight and pray (sing it, sing it, c'mon and sing it)
Fight and pray
And to live
yeah, yeah, c'mon everybody (and live rejoicing every,
every day)
Oh happy day.....
"Oh Happy Day" is a 1967 gospel music arrangement of an 18th century
hymn. Recorded by the Edwin Hawkins Singers, it became an international
hit in 1969, reaching No. 4 in the US and No. 2 in the UK pop charts. It
has since become a gospel music standard. This song is simplistic
but has a good message. All believers should rejoice about being
born again and should be watching and fighting in prayer. Matthew
26:41
Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation;
the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Ephesians 6:12 For our
struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against
the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual
forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
When is the author expecting to see the Lord? Now or in heaven?
Most would assume that he is talking about seeing Jesus Christ in heaven,
but then it seems that he is saying that he wants to see God in His glory
"as we sing holy, holy, holy" now. Which is it? The song is
not clear on this. So then this can be taken in a future tense or
in a present tense and can be used by Third Wave churches in claiming they
are experiencing these things now in glory clouds, etc. Also God does not
pour out His power for experiences, but for the purpose of ministry.
Those who continually ask for power usually get fooled by the enemy.
There is no prayer for power in the Bible. God lends his miraculous
power to those who are involved in ministry to others, particularly in
the proclamation of the Gospel. So this song can confuse people.
It also has too few lyrics so has to be sung over and over again.
Lord I come to You
Let my heart be changed, renewed
Flowing from the grace
That I've found in You
Lord I've come to know
The weakenesses I see in me
Will be stripped away
By the power of Your love
Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I'll rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love
Lord unveil my eyes
Let me see You face to face
The knowledge of Your love
As You live in me
Lord renew my mind
As Your will unfolds in my life
In living every day
By the power of Your love
(repeat chorus twice)
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love
(repeat)
Good song but notice that almost every line talks about "I, me, and my". Too many Christian songs today are unduly focused on self rather than on the Lord. We should be singing praise to Him, extolling his attributes, rather than on focusing on ourselves.
Chorus 1:
Praise Him (4x);
Jesus, blessed Savior,
He’s worthy to be praised.
Verse 1:
From the rising of the sun,
Until the going down of the same;
He’s worthy, Jesus is worthy,
He’s worthy to be praised.
Chorus 2:
Glory (2x),
In all things give Him glory;
Jesus, blessed Savior,
He’s worthy to be praised.
Verse 2:
God is our rock,
hope of salvation,
a strong deliverer,
in Him will I always trust.
Great song. Revelation 5:12 saying with a loud voice: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!
Good new worship song that takes many of its observations about Jesus Christ from the Bible. I like this song because it is refreshing to read song lyrics that do not dwell on self but rather on extolling the virtues of Jesus. Only 6 mentions of what "we" will do and 25 mentions of "Him". If you are concerned with the "rainbows" reference, I looked it up to remind myself of how the King of Kings is described.
Ezekiel 1:28 Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds
on a rainy day, so was the radiance around him. This was the appearance
of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell facedown,
and I heard the voice of one speaking.
Revelation 4:3 And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper
and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.
Revelation 10:1 Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from
heaven.
He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head;
his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars.
The "mighty angel" is a reference to Jesus by how He is described at the beginning of Revelation. The pre incarnate Christ was called "the" angel of the Lord in the Old Testament so, even though Jesus Christ is not a created being, He has been called the angel of the Lord many times.
I would like to see other composers follow the trend this artist is following in ascribing glory to God by listing His glorious attributes. Kudos!
Down the mountain the river flows and it brings refreshing wherever it goes. Through the valleys and over the fields the river is rushing and the river is here. The river of God sets our feet a-dancing. The river of God fills our hearts with cheer. The river of God fills our mouths with laughter and we rejoice for the river is here. The river of God is teeming with life and all who touch it can be revived and those who linger on this river's shore will come back thirsting for more of the Lord. Up to the mountain we love to go to find the presence of the Lord. Along the banks of the river we run. We dance with laughter giving praise to the Son
This "river" being sung about is not some allegorical river but the
river of the counterfeit revival. It is tied to the Third Wave so tightly
that its intent cannot be easily separated from that movement. Notice the
reference to "the river" causing "laughter". This is in reference to the
"holy laughter" of Rodney Howard-Browne and the Toronto "Blessing" movement.
Also, to state that touching this "river" will revive a person is deception.
Only salvation in Jesus Christ can cause a person to be born again, and
only the indwelling Holy Spirit can revive. The Bible says: "Repent,
then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of
refreshing (revival) may come from the Lord ..." (Acts 3:19).
The criteria for true revival (refreshing) is repentance, not getting some
kind of mystical Gnostic "anointing" experience imparted by "slain in the
spirit". And finally, can we get any more of the Lord than we already have?
Think about it. He created us, He sustains us, He died to save us from
our sins, He rose again to guarantee us eternal life, and He gave us His
Spirit to indwell us, sealing us till the day of our resurrection. In the
light of what God has done for us, all this "I want more" business sounds
incredibly self-serving.
Great lyrics. The only thing I would have liked to have seen is a little more on confessing and repenting from sin. His death on the cross purchased forgiveness and justification for all men, but only those who believe and repent will be saved.
(There's) No place I would rather be
(There's) No place I would rather be
(There's) No place I would rather be
Than here in Your love here in Your love
(So) Set a fire down in my soul
That I cant contain that I cant control
Cause I want more of You God I want more of
You
First of all there are not enough lyrics to this song to prevent it from being repeated over and over again just to take up enough time.
Second, though the sentiment of not wishing to be anywhere away from the love of God is good, the chorus to this song reveals the theological background. The words "fire" and "more, more, more" were the mantra of the Toronto "Blessing" and Brownsville "Outpouring" counterfeit Third Wave revivals which featured "slain in the spirit" and other unbiblical practices. This continues unabated in the Word of Faith, New Apostolic and Third Wave movements and churches, bolstered by songs like this one.
Third, the idea of getting something into your soul that you "can't control" is totally against the revealed character of God and those who follow Him, as well as the fruit of the Spirit of self-control.
Gal. 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Against such there is no law.
2 Thessalonians 3:6 But we command you, brethren, in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks
disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us.
1 Corinthians 14:40 But everything should be done in a fitting
and orderly way.
1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace...as
in all the congregations of the Lord's people.
Those who do not control themselves show the evidence of the lack of the fruit of the Spirit. What continues to be seen in counterfeit revival meetings as a result of slain in the spirit is disorder, not order. Those who have the Spirit of truth revere control, not the lack thereof.
Finally, as mentioned above, the continual cry of false teachers is to ask God for more and more with patent disregard to the fact the Christ gave his ALL already on Calvary, following that up by sending His Holy Spirit. Why are we not singing His praises for that? I do not recommend this song to be sung in the congregations of saints.
Lord, the light of your love is shining
In the midst of the darkness, shining
Jesus, Light of the world, shine upon us
Set us free by the truth you now bring us
Shine on me, shine on me
Shine, Jesus, shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit, blaze
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river, flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth your word
Lord, and let there be light
Lord, I come to your awesome presence
From the shadows into your radiance
By the blood I may enter your brightness
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness
Shine on me, shine on me
As we gaze on your kingly brightness
So our faces display your likeness
Ever changing from glory to glory
Mirrored here may our lives tell your story
Shine on me, shine on me
This is a song practically every Christian has sung countless times.
My only problem with it is the reference to a river that will flow and
flood the nations. This sounds like an introduction to the "river"
of the Third Wave and Dominionism. It can be taken figuratively and
has been by many churches, in other words it could be referring to evangelism
and missions. The other problem is that Graham is very involved with Catholicism
as is evidenced on his web site and recent concerts. I bet most Protestants
who use this song don't know about the author. This is not to say
that Catholic songs cannot be used if they are Biblical. This one,
however, has some compromise built in.
My Jesus, my Saviour
Lord there is none like You
All of my days I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love
My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You
Shout to the Lord
All the Earth, let us sing
Power and majesty
Praise to the King
Mountains bow down
And the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name
I sing for joy at the work
Of Your hands
Forever I'll love You
Forever I'll stand
Nothing compares
To the promise I have
In You
Good biblical song which, for once, is looking forward to the Kingdom, not claiming the physical Kingdom is already here now. The Lord surely is our comfort (Ps. 86:17) and shelter (Ps. 61:4).
There aren't even words to describe just how great
You are
In all Your majesty
You continually
Provide for me
There just isn't anything that You can't do
Lord I've seen Your work before
So I'll trust you all the more
Because You are
You are the sovereign God
Bigger than all my problems
And every situation
There is nothing too hard
For the sovereign God
A wave of Your hand can command the seas to hold their
peace
If you can handle the seas
Then I know that You can deal with all my needs
So I will put every situation
Into Your capable hands
I don't have to know the plan
Because You are
You are the sovereign God
Bigger than all my problems
And every situation
There is nothing too hard
For the sovereign God
He is able to do exceedingly abundantly
Above all we ask or think
So take all your burdens and lay them at His feet
And watch Him meet the need
We have the victory
Because You are
You are the sovereign God
Bigger than all my problems
And every situation
There is nothing too hard
For the sovereign God
He is sovereign, He is
He is sovereign, He is
(repeat sequence 3 times, inverting each time up to
one octave¦)
You are the sovereign God
Bigger than all my problems
And every situation
There is nothing too hard
For the sovereign God
This is the kind of song you should look for if you want to have a song that extols the virtues of God and teaches sound doctrine. Good job, Maurette!
Spirit of the Living God
Spirit of the Living God
We wanna know you more and more
We're hanging on every word
Speak to us
Spirit of the Living God
Spirit of the Living God
We're leaning in to all you are
Everything else can wait
Spirit of the Living God
Spirit of the Living God
Come now and breathe upon our hearts
Come now and have your way
Cause when you speak, when you move
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
When you come in the room
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
You're changing everything
Spirit of the Living God
Spirit of the Living God
Come now and breathe upon our hearts
Come now and have your way
Cause when you speak, when you move
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
When you come in the room
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
You're changing everything
When you move, you move all our fears
When you move, you move us to tears
When you move, you move all our fears
When you move, you move us to tears
When you fall, we fall on our knees
When you fall, we fall at your feet
God, when you fall, we fall on our knees
When you fall, we fall at your feet
Cause when you speak, when you move
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
When you come in the room
When you do what only you can do
It changes us, it changes
What we see and what we seek
You're changing everything
It is clear this song comes from from the Third Wave. They are talking about what they perceive as the Holy Spirit through slain in the spirit. First of all, they are talking about hearing the voice of God, not through the Word, but through the air in the "room" they are in. The fact is that they are not falling to their knees but falling on their backsides. Also there is not reference of God or the Holy Spirit falling in the Bible. The word "falling" is most often used int he Bible to describe people falling away or falling into error. In this age, the Holy Spirit indwells each born again believer and the Church as a whole. He then fills Christians for service with grace gifts, spiritual gifts. He does not fall on rooms are He filled the tabernacle or temple of old. He does not show up in a Shekinah glory cloud. This song is sung to try to brainwash people with the unbiblical ideas of the Latter Rain.
I'm giving you my heart, and all that is within
I lay it all down for the sake of you my King
I'm giving you my dreams, I'm laying down my rights
I'm giving up my pride for the promise of new life
And I surrender all to you, all to you
And I surrender all to you, all to you
I'm singing You this song, I'm waiting at the cross
And all the world holds dear, I count it all as loss
For the sake of knowing You for the glory of Your
name
To know the lasting joy, even sharing in Your pain
Even though this song is from Vineyard Songs and you should always test songs from Vineyard or Hillsong, this one is a good one. Just don't repeat it countless times since there are few lyrics.
There's a wind a-blowin', all across the land
A fragrant breeze of Heaven
Blowin? Once again
Don't know where it comes from
Don't know where it goes
But let it blow over me
Oh, sweet wind, come and blow over me
There's a rain a-pourin', showers from above
Mercy drops are comin'
Mercy drops of love
Turn your face to heaven
Let the water pour
Well let it pour over me
Oh, sweet rain, come and pour over me
There's a fire a-burnin', falling from the sky
Awesome tongues of fire
Consuming you and I
Can you feel it burnin'
Burn the sacrifice
Well let it burn over me
Oh, sweet fire, come and burn over me
Oh lift your voice
Call for the wind, call for the rain, call for
the fire
We say we're keen Lord...
Come and pour, oh Lord.
Do it again and again and again and again and again,
oh Lord
Oh, sweet fire, come and burn over me
Oh, sweet rain, come and pour over me
Oh, sweet wind, come and blow over me
Let it blow over, let it blow over, let it blow over...
Such a cute repetative refrain! How could you not like this song,
some of you will say. Four problems. (1) This is written by
a Vineyard artist. You always have to test everything from Vineyard
as they are one of the original modern day promoters of the Latter Rain.
This song is promoting asking God for an experience, which is "slain in
the spirit" in their universe. (2) If there is any wind blowing over
America or any other nation at that point it is the wind of wickedness,
sin and apostasy, not the wind of the Holy Spirit. Just singing it
does not make it so. In order for the Holy Spirit to move in people's
lives and in nations the Gospel must be preached, which this song and many
like it from Vieyard do not do. (3) Calling for fire, rain and wind
sounds very New Agey like you are calling on the elements, making ties
to occultism. (4) Instead of asking for earth, wind and fire (my
little joke) why not speak to the Lord and ask for His blessings, and better
yet, ask for discernment to not use songs that are unbiblical.
This is a good song, yet again much of the focus is on what "I" will do and less on the Lord. This is because this generation likes to sing and hear about themselves more than actually taking the time in this and other songs to praise the Lord.
It's always like springtime with You, making all things
new
Your light is breaking through the dark
This love it is sweeter than wine
Bringing joy, bringing life
Your hope is rising like the dawn
It's always like springtime with You, making all things
new
Your light is breaking through the dark
This love it is sweeter than wine
Bringing joy, bringing life
Your hope is rising like the dawn
This is what You do, this is what You do
You make me come alive
This is what You do, this is what You do
You make me come alive
This is what You do, this is what You do
You make me come alive
This is what You do, this is what You do
You make me come alive, You make me come alive
You make me come alive, You make me come alive
You make me come alive, You make me come alive
You make me come alive, You make me come alive
[x2]
It's like I'm living for the first time
Finally living for the first time
It's like I'm living for the first time
Finally living for the first time
It's like I'm living for the first time
Finally living for the first time
It's like I'm living for the first time
Finally living for the first time
First of all, I do not recommend ANY music from Bethel. They are a Latter Rain, New Apostolic heretical cult church. They do slain in the spirit claiming that is what is "making people new". Only the Gospel can make people new. This song sounds innocuous and is meant to be that way in order to ladle it into as many churches as possible. But without the Gospel message this song is empty of any real power. They do not preach the Gospel at Bethel, and in fact teach against a number of core doctrines. See Bill Johnson section. Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
For so long I was silent
And for so long I did not have a song of praise
Depression filled my days and clouds blocked my way
But there was a voice speaking to me
Awaking the passion so quiet in me
In me
So still in me
But I choose to worship (Choose to worship)
I just cant give up (I just cant give up, no)
I choose to worship (I choose to worship, yes I do)
My mind is made up (My mind is made up, oh)
Is that Your voice, calling me
Into that secret place with Thee
My heart has longed for this moment (My heart has longed for this moment, with Thee)
But I choose to worship (Choose to worship)
I just cant give up (I just cant give up, no)
I choose to worship (I choose to worship, yes I do)
My mind is made up (My mind is made up, oh)
He's healing me, I'm gonna worship (8x)
I'm gonna worship (5x)
My heart longed for this moment with, Thee
And I choose to worship
Of course this is another song that may be taken figuratively by many, yet it comes out of the unbiblical theologies of the Third Wave. The phrase "open heaven" is one being used in the counterfeit revivals and by people like Bill Johnson of Bethel Church in Redding, CA. But that phrase is nowhere to be found in Scripture. The biblical concept is that we have access to the Father in Heaven because we have a High Priest at His right hand. But we are not in heaven literally, nor can we command the territorial spirits from there. We also should not expect the "glory cloud" in churches, real gold dust, angel feathers, etc. We rely on Jesus Christ and His will as we may bring our petitions before Him. The second aspect of this song is that it sounds like it is advocating hearing from God directly by way of a physical voice "Is that Your voice calling me". That is not how we communicate with God in this time. We ask the Spirit to teach us and He speaks to us through the finished revelation of His Holy written Word. He may "speak" to us through our renewed conscience, but if it is a message from the Holy Spirit He always directs us to the written Word. To advocate getting your guidance from listening to an inner or outer voice leaves the door open for deceiving spirits and leads to accepting what the occult and false religions practice. This is what the Emergent Church also advocates. For that reason I cannot recommend this song.
Holy Spirit, I surrender to You [x2]
Take my life I lay it down
All my gifts and all my crowns
Take my life I lay it down
I am Yours
And I am in love, with undivided focus
And I am in love with You
Holy Spirit, I surrender to You [x2]
Take my hand and lead me through
The glorious fields to be with You
Take my hand and lead me through
I am Yours
And I am in love, with undivided focus
And I am in love with You
I am in love
And I am in love, with undivided focus
And I am in love with You
I wanna be a laid-down lover [x3]
Filled with You
I wanna be a fearless lover [x3]
Filled with You
I feel my way down this undiscovered hope
I run my hand along the wall
I'm waiting here for Your call
And I will follow You to the center of Your heart
I wanna be a laid-down lover [x3]
Filled with You
I wanna be a fearless lover [x3]
Filled with You
Filled with You
And I am in love, and I am in love
I'm in love with You...
And I am in love, with undivided focus
And I am in love with You
This song seems to be ok (though the part that says "I am in love with undivided focus, and I am in love with You" is sloppy writing ... sounds like she is in love with undivided focus) until it gets to the line "I want to be laid down lover". To treat God in this way is blasphemous and has to do with the blasphemous "Bridal" paradigm being taught by IHOP and Mike Bickle (see reviews of lyrics to "Burning", "Obsession" and "Sailed On"). We are to love with Lord with all our "heart, soul, strength and mind" (Luke 10:27) but that does not include sexual love. Song of Solomon is a figurative picture of Israel and God or the Church and Jesus Christ but is not to be taken literally to mean we need to seek a sexual relationship with the Lord somehow in the spirit. That is bringing Him down to the sensual desires of men instead of elevating Him to the highest, purest place where He is in character and place. These types of songs are riding the churches right off the rails into sensuality, where Bickle and the NAR crowd has want the churches to be all along with "slain in the spirit" etc. Don't use any songs like this in your church unless you want to fall under the judgment of our Holy God.
On the surface there seems like there is nothing wrong with this song. It is kind of a pep rally type of song to get people pumped up. Redman has written some excellent songs and also some that are marginal. This one is marginal as it references "fire" and "passion" which are both catchwords of the Third Wave. If the fire and passion are to preach the Gospel, to disciple born again believers of all nations and to obey the Word of God, that is worth singing about, though in context of these lyrics it is a bit braggadocios to declare that we will never have moments of failure in this regard. If it is a "fire" and "passion" brought about by the "transferable impartation" then it is decidedly not worth singing about but rather worth decrying. I don't approve of songs that can be taken one way by one group of believers and another way by false brethren. That cannot always be avoided but with a good song that teaches sound doctrines it is difficult to interpret it any other way. This song leaves the door open for a number of ideas, which I suspect was the intent of the author. I don't know Matt but it has been my long observation, as I have been a professional musician all my life, that musicians often have very little discernment and are more focused on pleasing the largest number of people. I used to be like that which is why I know it when I see it.
This is a good song with the one minor exception that our "land", if we are talking about the USA, has never been fully Christian. God has blessed the USA because certain righteous men were held in admiration and the country was founded on basic Judeo/Christian ethics. But the "land" here is not enumerated and many other nations have never been Christian in any sense. The fact is that ALL Gentile nations "fled from what is right" long ago. Ephesians 2:12 remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. Even Israel rebelled against the Lord and went after other gods. Everyone needs salvation and renewal. Lest we forget, repentance is necessary before revival can come. Acts 3:19 Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord;
Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome! Holy Ghost we welcome Thee. Come in power and fill this temple; Holy Ghost we welcome Thee.
Apart from the use of the word "Holy Ghost" which I think gives a bit of a negative picture of the Holy Spirit in our modern English language, this song gives a false impression of the person and work of the Holy Spirit in our times. The Bible clearly states that "where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Christians need not summon the Holy Spirit to meetings because He lives in them if they are believers and He is present with them when they meet together in Jesus' name. The Holy Spirit has already sealed and baptized every true believer. He already inhabits the "temple" made without human hands. Church buildings are not the "temple" today. The Holy Spirit certainly does fill believers for service to the Father and for witness. It is nice to welcome the Holy Spirit, but "invoking" or "summoning" the Spirit by way of words or music in unbiblical ways can be dangerous and actually has more in common with shamanistic practices. God is sovereign and moves as He will, thus we dare not command Him to be anywhere but wait upon His sovereign will to move. We may ask, seek and knock but only in His will according to His Word. If we summon the Holy Spirit and the Word tells us He is already present, then "summoning" is an unbiblical practice. We can give an opening to the enemy to pose as the Holy Spirit and bring deception into the lives of those doing such "summoning". This is exactly what happened in John Wimber's church when Lonnie Frisbee invoked God by repeating "Come Holy Spirit" and the unbiblical manifestations of the Toronto "Blessing" counterfeit revival had their genesis there. We are not to bring "strange fire" before the Lord or worship Him in ways He has not ordained. This very summoning of the "Holy Ghost" is what was done at the beginning of every Vineyard meeting before the false unbiblical manifestations of laughter, barking and screaming would show up, and later on in the Toronto "Blessing" and Brownsville AoG. I would be very leery about singing this hymn in my church, unless it was made clear to those in the church that it is not being used as an invocation but as a song acknowledging the presence and work of the Holy Spirit already taking place.
This is yet another song that cheapens the spiritual love between Jesus Christ and the saints by comparing that love to a sexual relationship. Intimacy in a relationship can be talking about having a close personal relationship to someone but is often used these days to mean sexual relations. If this word is not defined then people are free to make their own associations. In this case it seems to be defined by the words "I have felt your touch". Generally when you are talking about a friend, mother or brother you would not say that you have felt their touch. Also it is acceptable to talk about Jesus Christ as your friend but we must never forget that He is also our God and Savior. This song is an example of how many Christians who sing this song have lost their respect and fear of God by thinking of God in terms of a sexual relationship. The only way this song should be sung is for there to be an explanation that you are NOT implying sex.
Thank you for the cross Lord
Thank you for the price You paid
Bearing all my sin and shame
In love You came
And gave amazing grace
Thank you for this love Lord
Thank you for your nail pierced hands
Washed me in Your cleansing flow
Now all I know
Your forgiveness and embrace
Worthy is the Lamb
Seated on the throne
Crown You now with many crowns
You reign victorious
High and lifted up
Jesus Son of God
Darling of Heaven crucified
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Good song. The only reason I did not give it a four star rating
is that many songs from Hillsong are compromised with Third Wave, New Apostolic
teachings, so I want to warn people to be very careful of their other songs.
You will need to test them on an individual basis. Not sure I like
the phrase "darling of heaven" though if it is talking about the beloved
Son of God then that is backed by what the Bible teaches. We need
to be careful not to use terminology that might have other connotations.
My only wish is that, instead of "God of Jacob", the author had been using the name of Jesus Christ. Jews, for instance, who hear this song would not come to an understanding that it is only through Jesus Christ the Son that we have grace, not through the Law. John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
This song has some things to recommend it but one verse is enough to make is unusable in biblical churches. The idea that God's grace through Jesus Christ is "great" and that it is God who seeks us out is biblical. But after saying God's grace is everything Redman reveals a Pantheistic bent in the song by saying that he is "breathing in" God's grace and "breathing out" God's grace. These artists have obviously been influenced by Benny Hinn who famously stated "When we breathe out we breathe ourselves out and when we breathe in we breathe in the Spirit". (Observed by Ed Tarkowski on TBN, Fri, 11 Jul 1997). I guess Redman has one-uped Hinn since he also clams to beathe out God's praise! I guess a case could be made that Redman is breathing out His praise when he sings or preaches the Gospel, but "breathing in" God's grace? That is not how a person is saved or lives in Christ. His grace is not the air we breathe. It is His unmerited favor based on His death and resurrection. To cheapen it this way shows just how far New Age thinking has entered the churches. This same idea is sung in the song "Breath" by Michael W. Smith. We need to keep songs that confuse the eternal "I Am" with His creation out of churches.
Your love is extravagant
Your friendship, it is intimate
I feel like moving to the rhythm of Your grace
Your fragrance is intoxicating in our secret place
Your love is extravagant
Spread wide in the arms of Christ is the love that
covers sin
No greater love have I ever known
You considered me a friend
Capture my heart again
Spread wide in the arms of Christ is the love that
covers sin
No greater love have I ever known;
You considered me a friend
Capture my heart again
Your love is extravagant
Your friendship, it is intimate
Though there is a sense in which God's love through Jesus Christ is "extravagant" this song borders on being sacreligious. It seems to take up a sensual, even sexual, position on our relationship with Christ. I don't even know what "I feel like moving to the rhythm of Your grace" means as it has no basis in the concept of Grace in the Bible. God does not give off a fragrance and "in our secret place" sounds sexual. I know they base these lyrics loosely on Song of Solomon, but that book is talking about the relationship God has to Israel and by implication, Jesus Christ with the Church. It is not talking about a sexual relatioship between Jesus and the believer. God's relationship with His own is also not a secret. It is based on the Gospel which should be freely and openly proclaimed and evidenced in life. This song is part of the IHOP/Mike Bickle paradigm of singing love songs to Jesus that go far beyond the kind of love of a son or daughter should have for God that we ARE to have into the arena of human sexuality. These types of songs used by IHOP are blasphemous. I cannot recommend that true believers sing this song.
I know I still make mistakes
But You have new mercies for me everyday
Your love never fails
You stay the same through the ages
Your love never changes
There maybe pain in the night but joy comes in the
morning
And when the oceans rage
I don't have to be afraid
Because I know that You love me
Your love never fails
The wind is strong and the water's deep
But I'm not alone in these open seas
Cause Your love never fails
The chasm is far too wide
I never thought I'd reach the other side
But Your love never fails
You make, all things, work together for my good.
Without going into a long theological discussion which I have covered one my site with regards to eternal security versus conditional security, there are some really good teachings of Calvinists, and some really misleading ones. Two of them are unfortunately present in these song lyrics. (1) It is true that nothing, including the devil can seperate us from the love of Christ. However that does not apply to those who run away and stay away. The Good Shepherd will go after the lost lamb but sometimes that lamb wants to stay lost and since man has free will that is always a possibility and is what the Bible teaches. There are many today in the churches who teach that a believer cannot wander away (James 5:19), fall away (Luke 8:13), shipwreck their faith (1 Tim. 1:19), and finally shrink back and be destroyed (Heb. 10:39). But the Bible is clear that Christians can be deceived (Luke 21:8, 1 Cor. 6:9, James 1:16) and therefore must be alert against deception (1 Pet. 5:8). (2) I did an article about the use of the word "mistake" in Christian circles. There is no "mistake" in most Bible versions, and only five times in the NIV. However the words for sin total 766 in the KJV and 915 in the NIV (I guess the KJV is light on the idea of sin :) We don't still "make mistates" as much as we still "sin" as Christians (John 1:10). The difference is that we have forgiveness when we confess our sins through Jesus Christ, wereas unbelievers don't (John 1:9). Let's be accurate about what the Apostles and Jesus Christ taught on these subjects. Also Jesus Culture and McClarney are very involved with Bethel Church which teaches many false doctrines. See our videos on Bethel.
I was driving along and noticing that spring has sprung here in North Carolina. One of the first trees to bloom is the Bradford Pear. I began to notice how that tree has proliferated almost everywhere and then my wife looked up the information on this tree on the web. As she began to read the facts about this tree and its proliferation I began to see an allegorical parallel to what is going on in much of Christendom. But before I get into what the Bradford Pear can show us about the churches, I need to present the facts about the tree.
Only $10. plus s/h. for US.
Go here for further information.
The Lord's Prayer, Our Prayer
by Sandy Simpson
This DVD is a message based on this
article.
Matt. 6:9-13 This, then, is how you should pray: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."
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