Citizens - The Strife Is Over Lyrics

The Strife Is Over Video

The Strife Is Over Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"The Strife Is Over" is a powerful Christian worship song by the band Citizens. It carries a message of victory and hope, celebrating the triumph of Christ over death and the redemption that is found in Him.

Introduction: The Strife Is Over

The song opens with the line, "The strife is over, it is done, the victory of life is won." This sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing the completion of Christ's work on the cross and His triumph over sin and death. It reminds us that through His sacrifice, Jesus has overcome all obstacles and offers eternal life to those who believe in Him.

Verse 1: The Victory of Life

The first verse continues the theme of victory, proclaiming that the powers of death have done their worst, but Christ the King has borne our curse. This echoes the biblical truth that Jesus willingly took upon Himself the punishment for our sins, conquering death and offering us forgiveness and salvation. The line "Let shouts of holy joy outburst, Alleluia!" reinforces the idea that we should respond to this victory with joyful praise and worship.

Verse 2: The Preciousness of Democracy

The second verse takes a slightly different direction, highlighting the preciousness and fragility of democracy. It acknowledges the challenges and tests that America has faced throughout its history, but ultimately affirms that democracy has prevailed. This can be seen as a call to appreciate and protect the democratic values that allow for freedom and justice. While this verse may not have a direct biblical reference, it aligns with the principles of justice, equality, and the value of human life found throughout Scripture.

Verse 3: From Death to Life

In the third verse, the song shifts back to the central message of Christ's resurrection. It proclaims that Jesus rolled the stone that sealed His grave, moving from death to life in three dark days. This references the biblical account of Jesus' resurrection, which is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. The line "Let hymns of triumph tell His praise, Alleluia!" reinforces the call to worship and celebrate the victory of Christ over death.

Verse 4: The Reign of the Risen King

The final verse speaks of Jesus as the risen King who is now seated on His throne. It looks forward to the day when He will welcome His saints home and emphasizes that all glory belongs to Christ alone. This echoes biblical passages such as Philippians 2:9-11, which declares that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. It encourages believers to fix their eyes on the future and the eternal hope that is found in Christ.

Bridge: The Struggle and Hope

The bridge of the song reflects on the struggles and challenges that we face in life. It acknowledges the presence of pain, but also proclaims the hope that is found in Christ. The lines "Our living hope will be sustained, Jesus has won the war" remind us that no matter the darkness we may encounter, Jesus has already secured the ultimate victory. This aligns with biblical passages such as Romans 8:37, which states that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

Meaning and Inspiration: Celebrating the Victory of Christ

The song "The Strife Is Over" is a celebration of the victory of Christ and the hope that we have in Him. It reminds us of the central message of the Gospel – that Jesus died for our sins, rose again, and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him. The song encourages believers to respond to this victory with joyful praise and worship, recognizing the power and sovereignty of Jesus.

While the specific inspiration or story behind the song is not provided, it is likely that the band Citizens drew from biblical passages and themes to craft this powerful anthem. The lyrics of the song align with the core teachings of Christianity and the redemptive work of Christ.

Biblical Analysis: The Victory of Christ

The song "The Strife Is Over" is rooted in biblical truth and echoes the central message of the Gospel. It proclaims the victory of Christ over sin and death, highlighting His sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection. Let's explore some biblical references that support the key messages of the song:

- 1 Corinthians 15:54-57: "When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: 'Death is swallowed up in victory.' 'O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." This passage speaks of the victory of Christ over death and the hope that believers have in Him.

- Colossians 2:13-15: "And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him." These verses highlight the victory of Christ over sin and the forgiveness and redemption that believers receive through Him.

- Revelation 1:17-18: "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, 'Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.'" This passage emphasizes the resurrection and eternal life that believers have in Christ, as well as His sovereignty over death.

Based on these biblical references and the central message of the song, it can be argued that "The Strife Is Over" aligns with biblical teachings and proclaims the victory and hope found in Christ.

In conclusion, "The Strife Is Over" is a powerful worship song by Citizens that celebrates the victory of Christ over sin and death. It proclaims the completion of Christ's work on the cross and emphasizes the hope and eternal life that believers have in Him. The song encourages believers to respond to this victory with joyful praise and worship. Through its biblical foundation and uplifting message, "The Strife Is Over" serves as a reminder of the central message of the Gospel and the power of Christ's redemption.