Lyrics
Hear the cries of the shackled from the onset of time,
For the chains of defeat theres 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 (x2)
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 (x2)
Praise Him, praise Him,
Praise the Lamb that was slain (x2)
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“Worthy the Lamb” presents redemption as the answer to humanity’s bondage and grief. Its opening images of shackles, defeat, and tears create a need that no human figure can resolve. The song then turns toward the slain Lamb, whose worthiness is announced as captives are released and sorrow gives way to a swelling chorus of praise. That movement keeps Christ’s sacrificial victory at the center.
The gathering of angels and saints recalls the worship scenes in Revelation, especially the proclamation that the Lamb who was slain is worthy. Crowns held and laid before him reinforce his authority, while the repeated words “worthy” and “praise Him” give the lyric a congregational shape. The song’s hope is both personal and cosmic: freedom comes through the Lamb, and worship unites believers across time. Its restrained narrative builds toward a simple confession that Jesus alone deserves the honor offered by the assembled multitude.
Related Scripture
- Revelation 5:12 Heaven’s multitude declares that the Lamb who was slain is worthy.
- Revelation 4:10-11 The elders lay their crowns before God and proclaim his worthiness.