Oh, can you hear the angels' song, that rang so sweet and clear
When heaven's light and music fell, and mercy found us here
Glory in the highest, and on the earth be peace
Glory to God, the angels sing
He came to tell the Father's love, His goodness and His grace
To show the brightness of His smile, the glory of His face
So, glory in the highest, and on the earth be peace
Glory to God, Your children sing
His name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor
Mighty God, Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace for all eternity, oh oh
His name shall be
He came to lift the weary ones, give peace and perfect rest
To take away our burdens and, to give a glorious gift
So, glory in the highest, and on the earth be peace
Glory to God, the world will sing
His name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor
Mighty God, Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace, for all eternity, oh oh
His name shall be
Wonderful, Counselor
Mighty God, Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace for all eternity, oh oh
His name shall be
One name above all others
One name that came to save us
Oh sing, His name is, His name is Jesus
One name above all others
One name that came to save us
Oh sing, His name is, His name is Jesus
His name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor
Mighty God, Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace for all eternity, oh oh
His name shall be, oh oh
His name shall be
His name shall be
His Name Shall Be
His Name Shall Be Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Matt Redman's song "His Name Shall Be" draws listeners into the profound significance of Jesus Christ, centering around the prophetic names given to Him. The song opens by echoing the angelic declaration at Jesus' birth, bringing to mind the heavenly host proclaiming "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased." This sets a scene of divine intervention and the arrival of mercy into the world, establishing the foundational theme of God's condescension and grace towards humanity. The early verses paint a picture of Christ's mission – revealing the Father's love and grace, showing His goodness, and bringing light into darkness, inviting both the angels and then humanity to join in the chorus of "Glory to God."
The core of the song is built upon the powerful list of names found in the book of Isaiah, chapter 9, verse 6. The chorus declares that His name "shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." These titles are not mere labels but descriptions of Christ's divine nature, His role in salvation, and the hope He brings. "Wonderful" speaks to His awe-inspiring person and works, "Counselor" points to His wisdom and guidance, "Mighty God" affirms His deity, "Everlasting Father" highlights His eternal nature and paternal care for His people, and "Prince of Peace" underscores His ability to reconcile humanity to God and bring inner tranquility. This central refrain is repeated, emphasizing the weight and truth of these ancient prophecies fulfilled in Jesus.
Further verses explore the impact of Christ's coming on human experience, speaking of lifting the weary, providing rest, and alleviating burdens. This reflects the transformative power of His presence and sacrifice in the lives of believers, offering solace and strength. The call to give a "glorious gift" and the expanded invitation for the "world will sing" reinforces the universal scope of Christ's message and the eventual recognition of His glory by all creation. The song transitions from the specific prophetic titles to the personal, saving name of Jesus in the bridge.
The bridge serves as a powerful affirmation, proclaiming Jesus as the "One name above all others" and the name that "came to save us." This ties the Old Testament prophecy directly to the New Testament revelation of Jesus as the Messiah and Savior. It highlights the exclusivity and power of His name for salvation, a central tenet of Christian faith. This declaration, repeated for emphasis, calls listeners to sing out and celebrate the name of Jesus. The song concludes by returning to the majestic list of names from Isaiah, grounding the worship firmly in the biblical identity and mission of Christ, leaving the listener contemplating the fullness and glory contained within His name. The song serves as a powerful reminder of who Jesus is and the reason for the celebration surrounding His arrival.
