David Funk + Matt Redman + Bethel Music - Son of Suffering Lyrics

Son of Suffering

Son of Suffering Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Son of Suffering" by David Funk, Matt Redman, and Bethel Music is a deeply moving worship song that explores the profound paradox of divine power intersecting with human vulnerability and pain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Jesus, "the perfect Son of God," stepping into the reality of human existence, walking "in the dirt with you and me." It immediately establishes His relatability, emphasizing that He is not a distant deity but one who is intimately familiar with our struggles, knowing "what living is" and being "acquainted with our grief." This portrayal directly connects to the song's central title, presenting Jesus as a "man of sorrows, Son of suffering," highlighting His shared experience of human pain and sorrow as a core aspect of His identity and mission.

The song powerfully addresses the theological mystery of a suffering God, posing the question, "How can it be? That there's a God who weeps, there's a God who bleeds." This imagery of "blood and tears" underscores the reality of Christ's physical and emotional suffering, a concept that can challenge traditional views of divine impassibility. By embracing this truth, the song celebrates the incredible condescension and compassion of God who would enter into the human condition so completely. This theme culminates in a response of praise: "Oh, praise the One who would reach for me," linking God's suffering directly to His active pursuit and redemption of humanity. The repeated cry, "Hallelujah to the Son of suffering," transforms the concept of suffering from a sign of weakness into a source of worship, recognizing it as the pathway to salvation.

The lyrics further challenge any perception of Jesus being "distant and removed." Instead, they assert His active and "merciful pursuit" of humanity, particularly reaching out to the "sinner" with grace and embracing "the broken." The ultimate validation and proof of this pursuit, the song declares, lies "in Your wounds." Christ's wounds are presented not just as historical facts but as enduring evidence of His love, sacrifice, and identification with suffering humanity. This focus on the tangible cost of redemption leads into the powerful bridge section, articulating the core benefits derived from Christ's sacrifice: "Your cross, my freedom; Your stripes, my healing; Your blood still speaking; Your love still reaching." These lines encapsulate the transformative power of Christ's suffering, connecting His pain directly to the liberation and restoration experienced by believers.

Throughout the song, the atmosphere shifts from contemplation of suffering to triumphant worship. The bridge becomes a declaration of praise, repeatedly exalting "King Jesus" and offering "Glory to God in Heaven" and "Glory to God forever." This rhythmic repetition builds intensity, solidifying the song's purpose as an anthem of gratitude and adoration for the one who suffered for the salvation of the world. The concluding section brings back the initial theme of the "Son of suffering" but now framed within the context of overwhelming praise, emphasizing that the suffering was not in vain but led to ultimate victory and the worthiness of Christ to be worshipped forever. Released with an accompanying video in late 2021, the song serves as a powerful reminder for listeners of the accessible, empathetic, and sacrificial nature of God revealed in Jesus Christ, prompting a grateful response of worship for the profound love demonstrated through His willingness to suffer.