Ricky Skaggs - Are You Afraid to Die Lyrics
Lyrics
Are you a stranger to God
Carried away with your pride
Tell me sinner did you ever stop to think
Are you afraid to die?
Are you afraid
Are you unsaved
Are you afraid to die?
Call on him while he's near
Moments are swift passing by
Will you seek him where he may be found
Are you afraid to die?
Are you afraid
Are you unsaved
Are you afraid to die?
Are you too wicked to cry
Would you to God's bosom fly
Soon he's coming like a thief in the night
Are you afraid to die?.
Are you afraid
Are you unsaved
Are you afraid to die?
Are you afraid
Are you unsaved
Are you afraid to die?...
Video
Bill & Gloria Gaither - Are You Afraid to Die? [Live] ft. Ricky Skaggs
Meaning & Inspiration
The Bill & Gloria Gaither performance of "Are You Afraid to Die?", featuring Ricky Skaggs, released on July 23, 2012, presents a deeply resonant inquiry into the human spirit's ultimate reckoning. This profound gospel hymn, delivered with Skaggs’ characteristic conviction, transcends mere musical performance to become an urgent, timeless spiritual appeal. The song’s essence lies not in its melodic construction, though it certainly carries a simple, classic hymn feel, but entirely in the unflinching directness of its message, designed to prompt a soul-searching introspection about one’s eternal state.
At its core, "Are You Afraid to Die?" poses a series of pointed questions intended to shake spiritual complacency. The opening lines, "Are you a stranger to God? Carried away with your pride?", immediately confront the listener with a foundational challenge to self-awareness and spiritual relationship. This echoes biblical wisdom found in Proverbs 16:18, which warns that "Pride goes before destruction," suggesting that an inflated sense of self can indeed create a chasm between an individual and their Creator. The inquiry "Tell me sinner did you ever stop to think, Are you afraid to die?" is a stark reminder of our shared mortality and the eternal implications of our earthly existence. It calls to mind the solemn words of Hebrews 9:27, "it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment," compelling a pause for reflection on our readiness for that inevitable transition. The recurring question, "Are you afraid, Are you unsaved, Are you afraid to die?" serves as a powerful refrain, a drumbeat of spiritual urgency that penetrates the often-distracting noise of daily life.
The song continues its poignant exhortation with "Call on him while he's near, Moments are swift passing by," urging immediate action rather than procrastination. This aligns perfectly with the invitation found in Isaiah 55:6, "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near." It underscores the finite window of opportunity for repentance and reconciliation, a truth amplified by passages like James 4:14, which describes life as "a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes." The question "Will you seek him where he may be found?" reinforces the active pursuit required in a spiritual journey, emphasizing that God, though always present, desires a seeking heart. The passing nature of time and the swift approach of eternity are central to the song’s persuasive power, reminding all that today is the day of salvation, as echoed in 2 Corinthians 6:2.
The final stanza delves into the depths of human sinfulness and the promise of divine mercy, asking, "Are you too wicked to cry? Would you to God's bosom fly?" This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between the burden of sin and the profound comfort and safety found in God's presence, reminiscent of the prodigal son's return in Luke 15. It offers solace, implying that no one is beyond redemption if they choose to turn. The declaration, "Soon he's coming like a thief in the night," introduces the powerful New Testament imagery of Christ's imminent return, as depicted in Matthew 24:43-44 and 1 Thessalonians 5:2. This serves not as a threat, but as a final, urgent call to readiness, emphasizing the need for constant spiritual vigilance. Ultimately, "Are You Afraid to Die?" is more than a song; it's a spiritual catalyst, a direct challenge to examine one's standing with God, inspiring individuals to embrace the grace and salvation offered through faith, thereby transforming fear of death into the hope of eternal life.