Matt Redman - Jesus, Is This Song of Love Lyrics
Lyrics
Jesus is this song of love heard up in the heavens above
Though I stumble and I stray turn to me again.
Do not look upon my sin, but dear Lord look deep within
See the fire that burns therein, a passion for your name
For even though you are a King I hear you call me as your friend,
Is this a love that knows no bounds and beckons even me?
And though your name is greatly feared you still would draw a sinner near,
Turn and with a gracious ear hear my song of love!
Video
Jesus, is this song of love - matt redman ( christian song / with lyrics )
Meaning & Inspiration
Matt Redman’s "Jesus, Is This Song of Love," released on November 22, 2015, arrives as a tender, deeply personal prayer set to music, inviting us into a profoundly human conversation with the divine. This composition is less a declaration and more an honest, vulnerable question posed directly to Christ, exploring the vast chasm between human imperfection and God’s boundless grace. It immediately tackles the core struggle of the believer: how can our flawed offerings truly be acceptable to a perfect God? The very title poses this fundamental inquiry, setting a tone of hopeful trepidation.
The song begins with a direct plea, asking if a song from a stumbling and straying heart can truly reach the heavens and be considered an act of love. This immediately resonates with the universal experience of humanity’s fallen nature, a truth echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Romans 3:23, which states that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Yet, in the midst of acknowledging personal failure, there is an audacious request: "Turn to me again." This reflects a deep understanding of God’s persistent pursuit and His covenant faithfulness, often seen in the Old Testament as God repeatedly turning back to His people despite their rebellion, and supremely in the New Testament through Christ’s sacrifice.
A pivotal moment arrives with the lines, "Do not look upon my sin, but dear Lord look deep within, See the fire that burns therein, a passion for your name." This isn't a dismissal of sin, but rather an appeal to God’s merciful nature and His ability to see beyond surface transgressions into the genuine intent of the heart. It aligns with 1 Samuel 16:7, where the Lord tells Samuel, "For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." The "fire that burns therein" speaks not of self-righteousness, but of a Spirit-imparted desire and longing for God, a passion that, despite human weakness, genuinely seeks to glorify Him. This echoes the promise of a new heart and a new spirit found in Ezekiel 36:26, where God empowers His people to walk in His statutes.
The song then marvels at the astonishing intimacy God offers, recognizing the paradox that "even though you are a King I hear you call me as your friend." This profound truth finds its root in John 15:15, where Jesus tells His disciples, "No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends." This concept elevates the relationship from mere duty to deep, personal communion, shattering the traditional hierarchy between sovereign and subject through the radical act of divine love. It highlights God's initiative in drawing near, rather than requiring humanity to earn its way.
The questioning continues, "Is this a love that knows no bounds and beckons even me?" This reflects a awe-filled grappling with the infinite scope of God’s compassion, which extends even to those who feel utterly undeserving. It powerfully calls to mind Romans 5:8, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us," a love utterly without limits or preconditions. The lyrics further explore this by stating, "And though your name is greatly feared you still would draw a sinner near." This juxtaposition acknowledges God’s awesome power and holiness, the reverence due to Him as creator and judge, while simultaneously celebrating His mercy that transcends all fear. Jesus's ministry was characterized by drawing near to the marginalized and the sinful, as illustrated in Matthew 9:13, where He declares He came "not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Ultimately, "Jesus, Is This Song of Love" culminates in a raw, vulnerable offering: "Turn and with a gracious ear hear my song of love!" It is a plea for divine acceptance, a humble submission of the heart's true desire despite its imperfections. This song encapsulates the essence of true worship – not polished perfection, but honest, broken adoration laid before a God who is both majestic King and loving Friend. It serves as a powerful encouragement, assuring believers that their sincere, albeit flawed, expressions of love and devotion are not only heard but deeply cherished by a God who sees beyond the sin to the Spirit-ignited passion for His name within. It is a profound meditation on grace, inviting every struggling heart to bring their genuine praise to the One who always turns a gracious ear.