Verse 1
A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Verse 2
Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing;
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth, His Name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.
Verse 3
And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us:
The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.
Verse 4
That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God's truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever.
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God Video
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" is a timeless hymn that has resonated with Christians for centuries. Originally penned by Martin Luther in the 16th century, the song continues to inspire believers with its powerful message of God's strength and protection. In 2007, Chris Rice, a talented Christian artist known for his heartfelt renditions of hymns, released his version of this classic song. With its simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, Rice's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to the age-old lyrics, reminding listeners of God's unfailing presence and sovereignty.
The lyrics of "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" proclaim the truth that God is our ultimate refuge and defender. In times of trouble and uncertainty, we can find security in His unwavering protection. The song paints a vivid picture of God as a mighty fortress, a stronghold that can never be breached by the challenges of this world. This imagery is deeply rooted in the Bible, where God is often depicted as a shield and protector for His people.
Psalm 18:2 declares, "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." This verse echoes the sentiments expressed in "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," highlighting God's role as a source of strength and security for those who trust in Him. As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that we have a mighty fortress in God, a place of refuge where we can find peace and safety in the midst of life's storms.
The hymn also emphasizes the victory we have in Christ. In the second verse, the lyrics point to Jesus as the ultimate champion who fights on our behalf. Colossians 2:15 affirms this truth, stating, "And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross." Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has conquered sin and death, securing our ultimate victory in Him.
As the song progresses, it acknowledges the presence of evil in the world but asserts that we need not fear, for God's truth will prevail. 1 John 4:4 reassures us, "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." This verse echoes the message of "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," reminding us that God's power within us is stronger than any force we may face in this world.
The final verse of the hymn underscores the eternal nature of God's kingdom. While earthly powers may fade and pass away, God's truth endures forever. Matthew 24:35 declares, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." This verse serves as a poignant reminder that God's kingdom is everlasting and unshakeable, offering hope and assurance to all who place their trust in Him.
In a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, the lyrics of "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" stand as a beacon of hope and strength for believers. The song encourages us to take refuge in God's unchanging character and promises, knowing that He is our ultimate protector and defender. As we meditate on the truths conveyed in this hymn, may we find comfort in the assurance that God is indeed our mighty fortress, a stronghold we can always rely on in every season of life.
