Newsboys - In Christ Alone Lyrics
Lyrics
In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand
In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
Video
In Christ Alone by Newsboys
Meaning & Inspiration
The song "In Christ Alone," as performed by Newsboys, is a contemporary Christian hymn that has resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. While originally written by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty in 2001, Newsboys released their rendition on their album *Go* in 2007, quickly becoming a staple in modern worship and Christian radio. The Newsboys' version brought their signature energetic sound and passionate delivery to the powerful, foundational lyrics. Released on April 3, 2007, the accompanying music video often features performance footage, highlighting the band's dynamic stage presence and connection with the song's message.
The meaning of "In Christ Alone," drawn directly from the provided lyrics, centers on the absolute sufficiency and centrality of Jesus Christ in the believer's life. The opening lines declare Him as the sole source of hope, light, strength, and song, establishing Him as the unshakeable "Cornerstone" and "solid ground." This foundation remains firm through life's most challenging times, described as "fiercest drought and storm," contrasting with unstable earthly supports. The lyrics speak to the profound peace and comfort found when surrendering fears and ceasing personal striving, identifying Christ as the ultimate "Comforter" and "All in All." Standing "in the love of Christ" signifies security and stability rooted purely in His character and actions.
The second provided stanza delves into the incarnation and purpose of Christ. It speaks of Christ, in whom the "Fullness of God" resided, taking on human form as a "helpless babe." This act is presented as a "gift of love and righteousness," underscoring the salvific nature of His coming. The stanza also acknowledges the tragic reality that He was "Scorned by the ones He came to save," highlighting the rejection and opposition He faced despite His divine mission of salvation.
The profound theological truths expressed in the lyrics are deeply rooted in scripture. The concept of Christ as the "Cornerstone" and "solid ground" echoes Ephesians 2:20, which describes believers as being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone, and Matthew 7:24-25, where Jesus speaks of the wise man building his house on the rock. Finding hope and strength in Christ aligns with verses like Romans 15:13, praying for hope through the power of the Holy Spirit, and Philippians 4:13, stating the ability to do all things through Christ who strengthens. Christ as "light" is a clear reference to John 8:12, where Jesus proclaims, "I am the light of the world." The "Fullness of God in helpless babe" points to the doctrine of the incarnation, described in John 1:14 ("the Word became flesh") and Colossians 2:9 ("in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form"). The mention of Him being "Scorned" reflects prophecies and accounts such as Isaiah 53:3, stating He was "despised and rejected by mankind," and John 1:11, noting "He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him."
The Newsboys' musical interpretation infuses this modern hymn with a powerful, anthemic quality that amplifies the resolute confidence expressed in the lyrics. Their performance enhances the song's capacity to uplift and inspire. The song serves as a powerful reminder that true security, peace, and hope are found not in worldly circumstances or personal abilities, but solely in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Its enduring message continues to offer comfort and encouragement, pointing listeners to the steadfast love and unwavering foundation found only in Him.