Altar Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Altar: A Song of Surrender and Worship
Introduction:
Altar is a powerful worship song performed by Maverick City Music and Maryanne J. Georgein. It is a heartfelt expression of surrender and devotion to Jesus Christ. The song beautifully captures the essence of laying down one's life and offering it as a sacrifice on the altar of worship. With its powerful lyrics and captivating melody, Altar has touched the hearts of many believers and has become a favorite in Christian worship gatherings around the world.
1. Verse 1: Jesus, Set my heart on fire, Till You're all I want, Till You're everything
The song begins with a plea to Jesus to set the singer's heart on fire. This request is a desire for a deep and passionate love for Christ, where He becomes the sole focus and desire of their heart. It is an acknowledgment that true fulfillment and satisfaction are found in Jesus alone. The lyrics express a longing for Jesus to be everything in their life, indicating a complete surrender and dependency on Him.
2. Chorus: My life is the altar, My song will be the sacrifice, So let it rise higher, Till You alone are glorified
The chorus of Altar declares a profound statement of surrender. The singer acknowledges that their life is the altar, a place where they offer themselves as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). The act of offering one's life as a sacrifice is an act of complete surrender and devotion to God. It is a recognition that our lives are not our own, but belong to Him. The desire is for their song, their worship, to be the sacrifice that rises before God, bringing Him glory and honor. The ultimate goal is for God alone to be glorified through their worship.
3. Tag: Be glorified, Be glorified
The tag of the song reinforces the central theme of bringing glory to God. It is a simple yet powerful declaration that the desire is for God to be glorified in every aspect of their lives and worship. It is a reminder that worship is not about us, but about magnifying and exalting the name of Jesus.
4. Bridge: Every breath is for You, You are worth it, You are worth it all, My whole life I give to You, You are worth it, You are worth it all
The bridge of the song emphasizes the complete surrender and devotion to God. It acknowledges that every breath is for Him, meaning that every aspect of their lives is to be lived for His glory. The lyrics express the worthiness of God, acknowledging that He is deserving of their whole life, their every thought, word, and action. It is a declaration of trust and commitment to give everything to God because He is worthy of it all.
Meaning and Inspiration:
The song Altar encapsulates the essence of true worship – surrendering our lives to God and offering ourselves as a sacrifice on the altar of worship. It is a call to lay down our own desires, ambitions, and plans and fully surrender to God's will. The lyrics reflect a heart that recognizes the worthiness of God and longs to bring Him glory in all areas of life.
The inspiration behind Altar may vary for each individual, but the overall message is clear – to live a life of worship and devotion to Jesus Christ. It is a reminder that worship is not limited to a Sunday service or a specific time of the day, but it encompasses every aspect of our lives. The song encourages believers to make every breath count, to live with a constant awareness of God's presence, and to offer their lives as a sacrifice of worship.
Biblical Analysis:
Altar aligns with several biblical principles and teachings, making it a biblically sound worship song. The central theme of surrendering our lives as a living sacrifice on the altar of worship is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.
1. Romans 12:1 – "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
The chorus of Altar echoes this verse, emphasizing the act of offering our lives as a living sacrifice. The song encourages believers to offer their bodies, their entire being, as a holy and pleasing sacrifice to God, which is a true and proper act of worship.
2. Matthew 16:24 – "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'"
The plea in the first verse of Altar to set the heart on fire and make Jesus the sole desire aligns with Jesus' teaching on denying oneself and following Him. It reflects the call to surrender our own desires and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
3. 1 Corinthians 10:31 – "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
The desire for God alone to be glorified, as expressed in the chorus and tag of the song, reflects the biblical principle of doing everything for the glory of God. Altar encourages believers to live their lives in a way that brings honor and glory to God in every aspect.
Conclusion:
Altar is a powerful worship song that captures the heart of true worship – surrender and devotion to Jesus Christ. Its lyrics and melody inspire believers to lay down their lives on the altar of worship, offering themselves as a living sacrifice to God. The song encourages believers to make every breath count, to live with a constant awareness of God's presence, and to glorify Him in all areas of life.
From a biblical standpoint, Altar aligns with principles of surrender, devotion, and bringing glory to God. It echoes teachings from Jesus and the apostles, emphasizing the importance of offering our lives as a sacrifice of worship.
In conclusion, Altar is a timeless worship song that resonates with believers worldwide. Its message of surrender and devotion to God serves as a reminder of what it truly means to worship and bring glory to His name. May this song continue to inspire and ignite a passion for worship in the hearts of believers everywhere. Let us each lay our lives on the altar and declare, "Be glorified, be glorified!"
