Phil Wickham - Back To Life Lyrics

Phil Wickham - Back To Life (Official Audio)

Back To Life Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Released on August 18, 2023, Phil Wickham's song "Back To Life" offers a profound reflection on spiritual transformation and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The central theme revolves around being brought from spiritual death to life, drawing a clear parallel to the biblical account of Lazarus being raised from the grave in John chapter 11. This miracle serves as a powerful metaphor for the new life experienced by a believer, moving out of the darkness of sin and into the light and grace offered by God.

The lyrics contrast the state before salvation with the state after. Verse one speaks of being called out of the "grip of darkness" into "the light of grace," highlighting the transition from a life separated from God to one covered by His favor. Verse two distinguishes between "dead religion" and "living faith," emphasizing that true spiritual life is not found in empty rituals but in a vibrant relationship rooted in Jesus' name, which is the source of hope and freedom. The repeated affirmation, "Just like Lazarus, You brought me back to life," reinforces this dramatic shift from death to life.

The chorus encapsulates the essence of this transformation, echoing the Apostle Paul's words in Galatians 2:20: "No longer I who live, but Christ in me." This signifies a complete change of identity and purpose; the old self is gone, and the life of Christ now governs the believer. Being "born again," a concept found in John chapter 3, further describes this spiritual rebirth. With "the hope of Heaven before me, the grave behind," the lyrics point to the resurrection of Christ and the promise of eternal life as the foundation of hope, leaving behind the fear of death and condemnation associated with the grave. The response is one of overwhelming praise: "Hallelujah, You brought me back to life."

Verse three addresses the challenges believers face, such as feelings of guilt and unworthiness. The response provided is rooted firmly in the finished work of Christ. When accused by guilt, the believer points to the "price You paid," referencing Jesus' atoning sacrifice on the cross. When feeling unworthy, the response is to point to the "empty grave," a symbol of Christ's resurrection power and victory over sin and death, which validates the believer's new standing before God. These actions demonstrate that salvation is based entirely on Christ's work, not on personal merit.

The bridge and outro express deep gratitude and recognition that repaying God for such a gift is impossible in this lifetime. The thought, "How can I begin to thank You for all that You've done for me? Jesus, to fully praise You, it will take all eternity," underscores the immeasurable nature of salvation and the unending worship that will be offered in response. The repeated declaration, "Hallelujah, I'm saved," serves as a simple yet powerful testimony to the reality of this life-altering experience. The song concludes by reiterating the central theme, giving thanks to Jesus for bringing the believer back to life.