Bloodgood - Man in the Middle Lyrics

Man in the Middle Video

Man in the Middle Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Man in the Middle: A Powerful Journey of Sacrifice and Redemption

Introduction:

"Man in the Middle" is a powerful song by the Christian rock band Bloodgood. Released in 1987 as part of their album "Rock in a Hard Place," this song delves into the profound sacrifice and redemption brought about by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. With its impactful lyrics and intense musical composition, "Man in the Middle" offers a deep reflection on the significance of Christ's death on the cross.

I. The Road to the Cross: Via Dolorosa

The song begins by referencing the Via Dolorosa, which translates to "the way of suffering" or "the way of grief." It describes the path that Jesus took, carrying the weight of the cross, towards his crucifixion. This reflects the biblical account of Jesus' journey to Calvary, where he willingly bore the burden of humanity's sins.

The Lamb of God redeeming the lost
Carry the load and the disgrace
Willing to be there in my place

These lines highlight the central message of Christianity – Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, willingly took upon himself the sins of humanity, offering redemption and salvation to the lost. The lyrics depict Jesus' sacrificial act of carrying the burden of sin and shame, taking the place of every individual who believes in him.

II. The Man in the Middle

The chorus of the song repeatedly asks the question, "What about the Man, yeah the Man in the middle?" This phrase emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ, who was crucified between two criminals. The Man in the middle refers to Jesus, who stands at the center of human history and serves as the bridge between God and humanity.

What about the Man, yeah the Man in the middle?
What about the Man, what about the Man?

This repetition underscores the importance of contemplating Jesus' role and the impact of his crucifixion on our own lives. It urges listeners to reflect on the Man in the middle and consider the profound implications of his sacrifice.

III. The Man in the Middle: Flesh of God

The song further emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ, calling him the "Flesh of God." This description aligns with the biblical teaching that Jesus is the Son of God, fully human and fully divine.

The Man in the middle is the flesh of God
The Man in the middle is a lightning rod

These lines portray Jesus as the conduit of divine power and grace. The metaphor of a lightning rod suggests that Jesus attracts and channels the supernatural energy of God, serving as a bridge between heaven and earth.

IV. The Man in the Middle: Bread of Life

In another reference to Jesus, the song describes him as the "Bread of Life." This phrase alludes to Jesus' proclamation in the Gospel of John, where he declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty" (John 6:35).

The Man in the middle is the bread of life
The Man in the middle cuts like a knife

These lines convey the idea that Jesus sustains and nourishes our spiritual lives, providing the essential sustenance that we need. The imagery of cutting like a knife signifies the transformative nature of Jesus' message and the conviction it brings.

V. The Man in the Middle: Creator and King

The song continues to exalt Jesus, highlighting his role as the Creator of all things and the King of kings. These lyrics reflect biblical passages such as Colossians 1:16-17, which states, "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him."

The Man in the middle created all things
The Man in the middle is the King of all kings

These lines affirm the sovereignty and authority of Jesus Christ over all creation. They emphasize his divine nature and the exalted position he holds as the ruler of the universe.

VI. The Crucifixion: Torn in the Flesh

The song acknowledges the physical and emotional anguish that Jesus endured during his crucifixion. The lyrics depict Jesus as being "torn in the flesh" and "ripped open skin," highlighting the extreme suffering he experienced on the cross.

Torn in the flesh
Ripped open skin
Never cried out
Never gave in

These lines capture the immense sacrifice and unwavering commitment of Jesus to fulfill his purpose. Despite the excruciating pain, Jesus remained steadfast and resolute, fulfilling his mission to offer salvation to humanity.

Meaning and Inspiration:

"Man in the Middle" encapsulates the core message of Christianity – the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. The song serves as a reminder of the incredible love and grace that God demonstrated through the person of Jesus. It encourages listeners to reflect on the profound significance of Christ's sacrifice and its impact on their own lives.

The inspiration behind the song likely stems from the biblical accounts of Jesus' crucifixion, particularly the depiction of his crucifixion between two criminals (Mark 15:27). The songwriters sought to convey the timeless message of Jesus' sacrifice and the transformative power it holds for believers.

Biblical Analysis:

"Man in the Middle" aligns closely with biblical teachings regarding Jesus' crucifixion, sacrifice, and his role as the Savior of humanity. The lyrics capture the essence of Jesus' mission on earth and the theological significance of his death on the cross.

The song emphasizes Jesus' identity as the Son of God, the Lamb of God, and the Bread of Life. These descriptions find their roots in biblical passages such as John 1:29, John 6:35, and John 10:11. The reference to Jesus as the Creator and the King of kings is consistent with biblical teachings found in Colossians 1:16-17 and Revelation 19:16.

Furthermore, the song acknowledges the physical and emotional suffering Jesus endured during his crucifixion, reflecting the biblical accounts of Jesus' crucifixion found in the Gospels.

Conclusion:

"Man in the Middle" by Bloodgood is a powerful song that delves into the profound sacrifice and redemption brought about by the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Through its impactful lyrics and intense musical composition, the song invites listeners to contemplate the significance of Christ's death on the cross and its transformative power in their own lives.

The lyrics chronologically depict Jesus' journey to the cross, his role as the Man in the middle, and his divinity as the Flesh of God and the Bread of Life. The song captures the essence of Jesus' sacrifice and serves as a reminder of the incredible love and grace that God demonstrated through Jesus' crucifixion. Furthermore, "Man in the Middle" aligns closely with biblical teachings regarding Jesus' crucifixion, sacrifice, and his role as the Savior of humanity.

As Christians, reflecting on the message of "Man in the Middle" can deepen our understanding and appreciation of the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice and the redemption he offers to all who believe in him.