NewSong - Hero of The Faith Lyrics
Lyrics
Billy, I remember
The first time that I saw you
On our black and white
I was just a little tyke
But I remember it well
Billy, I remember
Wanting to grow up and be a man like you
Serve the Lord the way you do
Yes, I remember it well
And, Billy, through the years
You've been a great example of faithfulness
As you stood before the world
And you proclaimed what the Bible says
We know you don't want to be called a hero
And, Billy, we know, we understand
You're just another man
But you've been so faithful to the call
And, Billy, you've stood tall
You're a hero of the faith to us all
Billy, I remember
The miracle I saw
When you said, "come to Christ"
So many came to give their lives
I remember it well
Billy, I remember
Thanking God for sending us a man like you
Hoping He could use me too
Yes, I remember it well
And, Billy, through the years
You've been a great example of faithfulness
As you stood before the world
And you proclaimed what the Bible says
And we know you don't want to be called a hero
And, Billy, we know, we understand
You're just another man
But you've been so faithful to the call
And, Billy, you've stood tall
You're a hero of the faith to us all
You sure keep it simple
And you sure preach it plain
And, Billy, I just wish
More would preach it just the same
And we know you don't want to be called a hero
And, Billy, we know, we understand
You're just another man
But you've been so faithful to the call
And, Billy, you've stood tall
You're a hero of the faith to us all
You're a hero of the faith to us all
Video
NewSong - "Hero of the Faith" (Billy Graham Tribute)
Meaning & Inspiration
Released in 2000 as part of their compilation album *Arise My Love...best of Newsong*, "Hero of the Faith" is a deeply personal and inspiring tribute that resonates with the enduring power of faithful leadership. The song centers on the profound impact one individual, identified as "Billy," has had on the narrator and, by extension, on a wider community. It paints a vivid picture of a spiritual mentor, seen initially through the innocent eyes of a child captivated by a black and white television screen. The narrator remembers the desire to emulate Billy’s commitment to serving the Lord, a yearning that speaks to the aspirational nature of faith. This early admiration blossoms into a recognition of Billy’s lifelong dedication, his unwavering faithfulness in proclaiming biblical truths to the world.
The core of the song’s message lies in its humble perspective on heroism within the Christian walk. The lyrics explicitly state that Billy would not want the title of "hero," acknowledging his humanity and his understanding that he is "just another man." This humility is precisely what elevates his status in the narrator's eyes. His strength is not in flawlessness, but in his steadfast adherence to his divine calling and his courage in standing tall amidst his service. This resonates deeply with the biblical concept of serving God not for accolades, but out of love and obedience. Think of the apostle Paul, who despite his monumental ministry, often pointed to God's grace and strength, not his own (2 Corinthians 12:9). Billy's faithfulness is presented as a powerful testament, mirroring the encouragement found in Hebrews 10:23: "Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful." The song highlights the ripple effect of such devotion, recalling a specific "miracle" where Billy’s simple invitation to "come to Christ" led many to dedicate their lives to Him. This echoes the Great Commission, where believers are called to share the Gospel, trusting that God will draw people to Himself (Matthew 28:19-20).
What makes "Hero of the Faith" particularly moving is its emphasis on the clarity and simplicity of Billy’s message. The narrator expresses a wish for more preachers to adopt this straightforward approach, allowing the power of Scripture to shine through without unnecessary embellishment. This aligns with the biblical principle of speaking God's word plainly and truthfully. 1 Corinthians 1:17-18 reminds us that the message of the cross, while foolish to the world, is the power of God, suggesting that its intrinsic truth needs no artificial bolstering. The song ultimately celebrates not a perfect paragon, but a human being who, through consistent faithfulness and a clear proclamation of biblical truths, has become an inspiration. This is the essence of true spiritual leadership—not about self-promotion, but about obediently carrying out God’s work and in doing so, becoming a beacon for others. The repeated affirmation that he is "a hero of the faith to us all" is not a declaration of Billy's inherent superiority, but a profound appreciation for the transformative power of a life lived in unwavering commitment to God's will. It is a testament to the idea that ordinary individuals, empowered by extraordinary grace, can achieve extraordinary things for the Kingdom.