No Longer Slaves Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
No Longer Slaves: Finding Freedom in God's Love
Introduction:
"No Longer Slaves" is a powerful worship song written by Jonathan David Helser and Melissa Helser, and performed by Bethel Music. Released in 2015, the song quickly gained popularity and has become a favorite in many Christian worship settings. The lyrics of the song convey a strong message of freedom from fear and bondage, and the assurance of being children of God.
I. Unraveled by a Melody:
The song begins by expressing the transformative power of God's presence through music. The opening lines, "You unravel me with a melody, You surround me with a song," depict the profound impact that worship can have on our lives. Music has a unique ability to touch our souls and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us. It serves as a vehicle through which God can speak directly to our hearts and bring about healing and deliverance.
II. Deliverance from Fear:
The central theme of "No Longer Slaves" is freedom from fear. The chorus boldly declares, "I'm no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God." This powerful statement reminds us that as believers, we have been set free from the chains of fear that once held us captive. Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are adopted into God's family, and fear no longer has control over us.
III. Chosen and Loved:
The song goes on to highlight the depth of God's love for us. The lyrics state, "From my mother's womb, You have chosen me, Love has called my name." This line emphasizes the divine purpose and calling that each of us has in God's plan. Before we were even born, God knew us and chose us to be His own. His love for us is personal and intimate, and He calls us by name.
IV. Blood of the Family:
Another significant aspect of the song is the mention of the blood of Jesus. The lyrics state, "I've been born again into Your family, Your blood flows through my veins." This line speaks of the new life we receive through faith in Christ and the blood He shed on the cross for our redemption. It symbolizes our union with Him and the inheritance we have as children of God.
V. Surrounded by Deliverance:
The bridge of the song brings a powerful image of being surrounded by the arms of the Father and songs of deliverance. It proclaims, "I am surrounded by the arms of the Father, I am surrounded by songs of deliverance." This line reminds us that we are not alone in our journey. God's loving presence surrounds us, and He fights our battles on our behalf. His deliverance is always available to us, and we can trust in His faithfulness.
VI. Splitting the Sea:
The bridge also references the miraculous event of the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus. The lyrics state, "You split the sea so I could walk right through it, My fears were drowned in perfect love." This line draws a parallel between the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and our own deliverance from the bondage of sin and fear. Just as God made a way for the Israelites to pass through the sea, He has made a way for us to walk in freedom through His perfect love.
Meaning and Inspiration:
The song "No Longer Slaves" was born out of a personal experience of the songwriters, Jonathan David Helser and Melissa Helser. They have shared that the song was written during a time in their lives when they were facing fear and uncertainty. It was through their worship and surrender to God that they found peace and the revelation of their identity as children of God. The lyrics of the song reflect their journey of finding freedom and hope in God's love.
Biblical Foundation:
The biblical foundation of "No Longer Slaves" is strong, as it draws from various passages of Scripture that affirm the themes of freedom, adoption, and deliverance. Let us explore some of these references:
1. "I'm no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God" - This line echoes the words of Romans 8:15, which states, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'"
2. "From my mother's womb, You have chosen me" - This line reflects the truth expressed in Jeremiah 1:5, where God says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."
3. "Your blood flows through my veins" - This line speaks of the redemption we have through the blood of Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 1:7, it says, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace."
4. "You split the sea so I could walk right through it" - This line refers to the miraculous event of the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14, where God made a way of escape for the Israelites. It symbolizes God's power to deliver us from our own bondage and lead us to freedom.
Overall, "No Longer Slaves" aligns with the biblical teachings of freedom, adoption, and deliverance through faith in Jesus Christ. The song's lyrics beautifully capture the essence of these truths and serve as a reminder of our identity as beloved children of God.
Conclusion:
"No Longer Slaves" is a powerful worship song that resonates with believers across the world. Its message of freedom from fear and bondage, and the assurance of being children of God, strikes a chord in the hearts of those who long for a deeper relationship with Him. The song's biblical foundation and personal inspiration make it a meaningful and impactful anthem of worship. As we sing these words, let us allow the truth of God's love and deliverance to take root in our hearts, and may we find strength and encouragement in knowing that we are no longer slaves, but children of God.
