Cody Johnson - His Name is Jesus Lyrics
Lyrics
At the mention of his name
Walls crumble, lives are changed
In the midst of life's temptations
He's there to see us through
This man of which I speak
Is here today for you and me
His name is Jesus
But you can call him as you please
They call him Immanuel
The King of all Kings
He's the son of The Father
The Prince of Peace
They call him Hosanna
The Lighthouse at Sea
The Rock of Ages
He's a friend to me
Many times I've called his name
Prayed for forgiveness when used in vain
Oh, but there's a peace in knowing that
His forgiveness stays the same
Most famous in history
Things he spoke, the whole world still reads
His name is Jesus
But you can call him as you please
They call him Immanuel
The King of all Kings
He's the son of The Father
The Prince of Peace
They call him Hosanna
The Lighthouse at Sea
The Rock of Ages
And he's a friend to me
They call him Hosanna
The Lighthouse at Sea
The Rock of Ages
But he's a friend to me
The Rock of Ages
But he's a friend to me
Video
Cody Johnson - "His Name Is Jesus" (Official Audio Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Cody Johnson's song "His Name is Jesus," released on January 18, 2019, via the official audio video, is a powerful declaration of faith centered on the figure of Jesus Christ. The track immediately establishes a profound theme, asserting the transformative power inherent in merely mentioning his name. The lyrics speak of walls crumbling and lives being changed, suggesting an overwhelming force that overcomes obstacles and initiates spiritual renewal. Amidst life's challenges and temptations, the song portrays Jesus as a constant presence, guiding believers through difficulties. The opening lines introduce the subject as a man who is present for everyone today, culminating in the direct statement of his identity: "His name is Jesus." The following line, "But you can call him as you please," acknowledges the personal nature of faith and relationship with the divine figure.
The song expands upon this central theme by listing various titles and descriptions associated with Jesus in Christian theology, presented as alternative ways people "call him." These titles highlight different aspects of his nature and role. "Immanuel," meaning "God with us," emphasizes his divine presence among humanity (Matthew 1:23). "The King of all Kings" points to his ultimate sovereignty and authority (Revelation 19:16). Describing him as "The son of The Father" underscores his unique relationship with God. "The Prince of Peace" reflects his role in bringing reconciliation and tranquility (Isaiah 9:6). The lyrics also use metaphors like "The Lighthouse at Sea," symbolizing guidance and safety in turbulent times, and "The Rock of Ages," signifying steadfastness, strength, and refuge (Psalm 18:2). Ultimately, beyond these grand titles, the song grounds the relationship in personal connection, stating, "He's a friend to me," illustrating an intimate and accessible bond.
The second verse delves into a more personal reflection on the speaker's relationship with Jesus. It touches on moments of calling his name, including seeking forgiveness for times it might have been used thoughtlessly or in vain. This personal acknowledgment is met with the comforting assurance that "there's a peace in knowing that / His forgiveness stays the same," emphasizing the constancy of grace. The lyrics then broaden to acknowledge Jesus's historical significance, noting him as "Most famous in history" and stating that the teachings he spoke "the whole world still reads," referencing the enduring impact of his words as recorded in scripture. The verse circles back to the core declaration, "His name is Jesus," while reaffirming the personal choice in how one relates to him, "But you can call him as you please."
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the multitude of roles and identities attributed to Jesus, from the divine Immanuel and the authoritative King of Kings to the guiding Lighthouse and the steadfast Rock of Ages. This litany serves to remind the listener of the comprehensive nature of his character and influence. The concluding lines, specifically highlighting "The Rock of Ages / But he's a friend to me," reiterate the powerful combination of divine strength and personal closeness that the song celebrates. The repetition emphasizes the profound comfort and security found in this relationship, portraying Jesus as both an unshakeable foundation and a deeply personal confidant. The song, rooted in biblical themes and expressing a heartfelt personal faith, delivers an inspirational message of hope, forgiveness, and the enduring power of Jesus's name and presence.