|Verse 1|
Were creation suddenly articulate
With a thousand tongues to lift one cry
Then from north to south and east to west
We'd hear 'Christ be magnified!'
Were the whole earth echoing His eminence
His name would burst from sea and sky
From rivers to the mountain tops
We'd hear 'Christ be magnified!'
|Chorus|
O! Christ be magnified!
Let His praise arise
Christ be magnified in me
O! Christ be magnified!
From the altar of my life
Christ be magnified in me
|Verse 2|
When every creature finds its inmost melody
And every human heart its native cry
O then in one enraptured hymn of praise
We'll sing 'Christ be magnified!'
O be lifted high, Jesus
|Bridge|
I won't bow to idols, I'll stand strong and worship You
And if it puts me through the fire, I'll rejoice 'cause You're there too
I won't be formed by feelings, I hold fast to what is true
If the cross brings transformation, You can hang me there with You
'Cause death is just the doorway into resurrection life
And if I join You in Your suffering then I'll join You when You rise
And when You return in glory with all the angels and the saints
My heart will still be singing and my song will be the same
Christ Be Magnified - Cory Asbury
Christ Be Magnified Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Cory Asbury's song "Christ Be Magnified" stands as a powerful declaration of worship that moves from a cosmic perspective to a deeply personal commitment. The opening verses paint a vivid picture of a world fully alive with the praise of Christ. They imagine creation itself, if given voice, joining in a unified cry for Christ to be lifted high. This imagery extends from the smallest corner to the vastness of the earth, sea, sky, rivers, and mountains, suggesting that the very fabric of existence yearns to proclaim His eminence. This resonates with biblical themes where creation reflects God's glory (Psalm 19:1, Romans 1:20) and is even called to praise Him (Psalm 148).
The song then shifts focus in the chorus, bringing the grand, universal vision into the heart of the individual worshiper. The fervent plea, "Christ be magnified in me," transforms the cosmic declaration into a personal prayer and commitment. The phrase "From the altar of my life" is particularly potent, evoking the biblical concept of presenting one's entire being as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1). It signifies a willingness to surrender everything—desires, plans, will—so that Christ's greatness is showcased through one's existence, making the worshiper's life a platform for His praise.
The bridge delves even deeper into the personal cost and unwavering resolve of devotion. It outlines a steadfast commitment to worshipping Christ alone, refusing to bow to idols (referencing numerous Old Testament warnings against false worship). This commitment is tested by the trials of life, symbolized by "the fire," yet the worshiper finds joy in suffering because of Christ's presence, echoing the experiences of figures like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3) and the New Testament call to rejoice in suffering as it leads to perseverance and hope (Romans 5:3-5, James 1:2-4). The lyrics assert a firm foundation on truth rather than fleeting feelings, emphasizing the reliability of God's word and character (John 14:6, Hebrews 13:8). The willingness to embrace transformation through the cross, even to the point of joining in Christ's suffering, reflects the call to take up one's cross daily (Luke 9:23) and the profound truth found in Galatians 2:20 about being crucified with Christ.
This journey through suffering is presented not as an end, but as a doorway to resurrection life. The bridge powerfully connects joining in Christ's suffering with the assurance of joining Him in His resurrection (Romans 8:17, Philippians 3:10, 2 Timothy 2:11). This hope extends to the ultimate future—Christ's return in glory. Even in the face of this magnificent event, surrounded by angels and saints (Acts 1:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17), the worshiper's song remains unchanged. The steadfast declaration, "Christ be magnified," persists through trials, death, resurrection, and glorious return, underscoring the eternal centrality and worthiness of Christ. This steadfastness is the culmination of the song's message, rooted in a love and devotion that transcends circumstances and time, finding its complete fulfillment in His presence.
![Christ Be Magnified Lyrics - Cory Asbury]()
