Hear the cries of the shackled from the onset of time,
For the chains of defeat there’s no key.
See the tears of the broken, the cries of the slaves:
Is there no one worthy to set us free?
Then the crying is stilled as the chorus rings out,
The shackled released from their chains.
And thousands of voices are swelling the song:
Worthy the Lamb that was slain.
Worthy, worthy,
Worthy the Lamb that was slain
Worthy, worthy,
Worthy the Lamb that was slain
Then all the archangels, the saints of all time,
Holding their crowns in their hands,
Fall down before Him joining the song:
Worthy, worthy the Lamb!
Worthy, worthy,
Worthy the Lamb that was slain
Worthy, worthy,
Worthy the Lamb that was slain
Praise Him, praise Him,
Praise the Lamb that was slain (x2)
Worthy The Lamb
Worthy The Lamb Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Released on August 24, 2012, the Gaither Vocal Band and Bill Gaither’s rendition of "Worthy The Lamb" is a profound musical declaration centered entirely on the person and work of Jesus Christ, using the deeply significant biblical title that carries layers of meaning from the Old Testament sacrificial system to the triumphant vision of Revelation. This song doesn't waste time with preamble; it launches straight into an exploration of why Jesus is given this unique designation and why He alone deserves the ultimate worship. The title itself echoes John the Baptist's declaration upon seeing Jesus, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29), immediately establishing the theme of substitutionary sacrifice, a concept foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament where unblemished lambs were offered for atonement. The song builds upon this foundation, portraying the Lamb not merely as a victim but as the victorious, redemptive figure central to God's eternal plan.
The performance by the Gaither Vocal Band, often augmented by Bill Gaither’s presence which can add narrative weight or a distinctive vocal line, is marked by their signature rich harmonies and powerful delivery, conveying a sense of both reverence and awe appropriate for the subject matter. The vocal arrangement swells and recedes, mirroring the escalating revelation of the Lamb's worthiness presented in Scripture. Lyrically, the song is a journey into the throne room depicted in the book of Revelation, particularly chapter five, where a search is made for one worthy to open the scroll, revealing God's purposes. This scene culminates in the identifying of the Lion of the tribe of Judah who is also the Lamb *who was slain* (Revelation 5:5-6), emphasizing that His worthiness comes precisely from His sacrifice. The song’s verses and chorus articulate the myriad reasons the Lamb is worthy: for His blood shed for redemption (1 Peter 1:18-19), for overcoming sin and death (Revelation 1:18, Hebrews 2:14-15), and for His ultimate victory and reign (Revelation 17:14). It captures the essence of the heavenly chorus found in Revelation 5:12, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!" This song invites all who sing or listen to join that celestial throng in acknowledging the unparalleled value and authority of Jesus. It’s more than just a recounting of biblical events; it's a call to participate in the timeless worship directed towards the One who secured salvation and reigns supreme. The powerful ending typically leaves one contemplating the Lamb’s majesty and joining in the declaration of His worthiness, making it a piece that is not only musically impactful but also deeply inspiring and theologically rich, driving listeners back to the foundational truths of faith concerning Christ, the Lamb of God.
