Verse 1
Alone in my sorrow, and dead in my sin
Lost without hope, with no place to begin
Your love made a way to let mercy come in
When death was arrested, and my life began
Verse 2
Ash was redeemed, only beauty remains
My orphan heart was given a name
My mourning grew quiet, my feet rose to dance
When death was arrested, and my life began
Chorus 1
Oh your grace so free, washes over me
You have made me new, now life begins with You
Verse 3
Released from my chains, I'm a prisoner no more
My shame was a ransom, He faithfully bore
He cancelled my debt, and He called me his friend
When death was arrested, and my life began
Chorus 2
Oh your grace so free, washes over me
You have made me new, now life begins with You
It's your endless love, pouring down on us
You have made us new, now life begins with you
Verse 4
Our Savior displayed on a criminal's cross
Darkness rejoiced, as though heaven had lost
But then Jesus arose, with our freedom in hand
That's when death was arrested, and my life began
That's when death was arrested, and my life began
Bridge
Oh, we free, free, forever we're free
Come join the song of all the redeemed
Yes, we're free, free, forever amen
When death was arrested and my life began
Tag
When death was arrested, and my life began
Yes, when death was arrested, and my life began
Death Was Arrested Video
Death Was Arrested Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Death Was Arrested" is a powerful and moving song performed by North Point Worship, a collective of musicians from the North Point Ministries based in Alpharetta, Georgia. The song was initially released on April 7, 2017, and quickly became a beloved anthem within Christian communities for its profound message of hope, redemption, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ's resurrection. This worship song draws from Biblical narratives and promises, offering listeners a musical journey through the story of salvation and the victory over death and sin.
North Point Worship, known for their heartfelt and contemporary worship songs, crafted "Death Was Arrested" to articulate the Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus and its implications for humanity. The song begins with a personal reflection on the state of being lost in sin and separation from God, a condition that the Bible describes in Ephesians 2:1, "And you were dead in the trespasses and sins." The lyrics then transition to the moment of spiritual awakening and redemption, echoing the promise found in Ephesians 2:4-5, "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved."
The chorus of "Death Was Arrested" is a declaration of freedom and new life in Christ. It captures the essence of 2 Corinthians 5:17, which states, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This part of the song celebrates the grace of God that washes over believers, making them new and initiating a life that begins with Him. It is a powerful reminder of the transformation that occurs when one accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Verse 3 of the song speaks to the liberation from the chains of sin and the personal relationship believers have with God through Jesus Christ. It reflects the biblical truth of redemption and adoption into God's family, as outlined in Galatians 4:7, "So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God." The imagery of chains being broken and debts being canceled resonates with the scriptural promise of freedom found in Christ.
The song culminates with a verse that describes the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, underscoring the victory over death and the hope of eternal life. This segment aligns with 1 Corinthians 15:55-57, "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?... But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." The resurrection of Jesus is central to the Christian faith, signifying God's power over death and His ability to bring life out of darkness.
For those looking to play "Death Was Arrested," the song is traditionally performed in the key of A Major. Worship leaders and musicians may also opt to play it in G Major or Bb Major, depending on vocal range preferences or the congregation's needs. The chords and progression are accessible for guitarists and pianists alike, making it a versatile piece for worship settings.
"Death Was Arrested" stands as a testament to the hope and freedom found in Jesus Christ. Its lyrics not only encapsulate the core beliefs of Christianity but also offer encouragement and solace to believers around the world. Through this song, North Point Worship invites worshippers to join in celebrating the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, acknowledging the profound impact of His sacrifice and the joy of salvation. As the bridge of the song proclaims, believers are free forever, a truth that prompts a response of worship, gratitude, and a life lived in the light of Christ's victory over death.
