Elevation Worship + Israel Houghton - O Come To The Alter Lyrics

O Come To The Alter

O Come To The Alter Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Released in 2015, "O Come To The Altar" by Elevation Worship featuring Israel Houghton has become a widely sung contemporary worship anthem. The song extends a profound invitation, addressing those feeling broken, overwhelmed by sin, or simply at the end of their own resources. It speaks directly to a universal human condition of struggle and need, portraying Jesus not as a distant figure, but as one actively calling out to individuals in their pain. The lyrics resonate with the feeling of being lost or burdened, setting the stage for the central message of hope and redemption.

The heart of the song lies in its powerful chorus, which acts as the central invitation and declaration. The call to "O come to the altar" symbolizes a spiritual coming to God, a place of surrender and encounter. This imagery is immediately met with the assurance that "The Father's arms are open wide," portraying God's unconditional love and readiness to receive. The chorus makes a clear theological statement about the basis of forgiveness: it "was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ." This points directly to the Christian doctrine of atonement, where forgiveness and reconciliation with God are made possible through Christ's sacrificial death.

Building on this foundation, the verses further elaborate on the transforming power available through this invitation. The song encourages listeners to "leave behind your regrets and mistakes," emphasizing that there is no need to delay in responding to Jesus' call. It presents an exchange: bringing sorrows to trade them for joy, and experiencing the miracle of "From the ashes, a new life is born." This echoes biblical themes of restoration and rebirth, highlighting the radical change available to those who come to God through Christ, symbolizing a complete renewal and the start of a new journey free from the burdens of the past.

The bridge shifts from the personal invitation and experience to a corporate declaration of praise and worship. It exclaims, "Oh what a Savior," and "Isn't He wonderful?", leading into the triumphant declaration, "Sing Hallelujah, Christ is risen." This section grounds the personal experience of forgiveness and new life in the historical event of Christ's resurrection, which is central to Christian faith. Declaring "Bow down before Him, For He is Lord of all" acknowledges Jesus' ultimate authority and worthiness of worship, unifying the personal act of coming to the altar with a broader recognition of Christ's victory and reign. The repetition reinforces the truth of the resurrection and its significance.

Overall, the song weaves together themes of human brokenness, divine invitation, the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the possibility of profound transformation and new life, and culminates in corporate worship acknowledging Christ's victory and lordship. It serves as a clear and compelling call to experience God's grace and forgiveness, rooted in fundamental Christian beliefs about the nature of God, humanity, sin, salvation, and the person and work of Jesus Christ. The message is universally applicable to anyone seeking solace, redemption, and a renewed relationship with their Creator.