Matt Redman - Lamb of God Lyrics

Matt Redman & David Funk - Lamb Of God / Amen (Total Praise) [Live From The Mission]

Lamb of God Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Matt Redman's song "Lamb of God," featuring David Funk and recorded live from The Mission in 2023, presents a powerful reflection on the core tenets of Christian faith, centering on the person and work of Jesus Christ. The opening verses establish a striking contrast, juxtaposing the vast and awe-inspiring beauty of creation—mountain grandeur, sunrise glory, distant stars, and deep oceans—with what the lyricist declares to be the single greatest wonder his soul has ever seen: the Lamb of God on Calvary. This sets the tone, positioning the cosmic spectacle of the universe as secondary to the redemptive act performed through Christ's sacrifice. It highlights a perspective rooted in faith, where the spiritual significance of the cross surpasses the natural wonders of the world.

The chorus serves as a direct call to contemplation and worship: "Behold the Son of God / Who takes away our sin / Behold His perfect sacrifice / Behold the wounds of grace / Upon His hands and feet." This section is rich with theological meaning, referencing key biblical themes. The title "Lamb of God" echoes John the Baptist's declaration in John 1:29, identifying Jesus as the one who would atone for the sins of the world, akin to the sacrificial lambs in the Old Testament. The concept of taking away sin and a "perfect sacrifice" points directly to the atonement accomplished through Jesus' death, as discussed extensively in the New Testament, for instance, in Isaiah 53 and the book of Hebrews. The mention of "wounds of grace" on His hands and feet specifically calls to mind the physical marks of the crucifixion, portraying them not just as signs of suffering but as conduits of God's undeserved favor or grace.

Verse three, contributed by David Funk, expands the perspective beyond the historical event on Calvary to the eternal implications of Christ's work. It speaks of heaven holding a welcome and God's love becoming an eternal anthem, suggesting the future hope and everlasting relationship available through Christ. Crucially, it re-emphasizes the enduring nature of the wonder, shifting from "my soul has ever seen" to "my soul will ever see," culminating in the victorious aspect of the Lamb: "the Lamb who conquered Calvary / Oh, the Lamb of God, our victory." This adds a dimension of triumph over sin and death, highlighting the resurrection and ascension as the ultimate confirmation of Christ's completed work and the promise of future glory for believers.

The bridge provides a communal response of worship and adoration. The repeated questioning, "Isn't He worthy? Forever worthy," is a powerful affirmation, drawing heavily from the imagery in Revelation 5, where the Lamb who was slain is declared worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise. This rhetorical question invites the listener to join in the declaration of Christ's infinite worthiness. The bridge then transitions into a direct act of worship: "We give You the glory... All of the glory to the Lamb who was slain." This reinforces the theme of Christ's sacrifice as the basis for worship and praise, directing all honor and glory to Him for the redemptive work accomplished through His death.

Taken together, the song weaves a narrative that moves from recognizing the surpassing wonder of the cross in light of creation, to beholding the sacrificial act and its meaning, to embracing the eternal hope and victory secured by the conquering Lamb, and finally, to offering collective worship and glory to the One who is forever worthy. Its structure, contrasting natural wonders with the spiritual wonder of Christ, and moving from sacrifice to victory and worship, makes it a comprehensive expression of faith focused on the central figure of Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God. The live recording context further suggests its intended use as a corporate worship anthem, facilitating a shared experience of contemplating and responding to the profound truth of the gospel.