Sandi Patty - We Beheld His Glory Lyrics
Lyrics
The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us
And we beheld His glory
Video
Sandi Patty/Larnelle Harris - We Beheld His Glory
Meaning & Inspiration
Released on December 16, 2014, "We Beheld His Glory" by Sandi Patty, often presented with Larnelle Harris, is far more than a simple musical piece; it is a profound theological declaration set to song, a deep dive into one of Scripture's most monumental truths. The very title immediately references John 1:14, the foundational verse that encapsulates the miraculous event of the Incarnation, making it a song designed to foster worship and contemplative reverence for the person of Jesus Christ. The genius of this composition lies in its laser focus on this single, earth-shattering statement, allowing the weight of its meaning to resonate fully with anyone engaging with the track.
The narrative at the heart of "We Beheld His Glory" is the biblical account of God entering humanity, a truth that transforms all understanding of divine interaction with creation. When the song proclaims, echoing John 1:14, "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us," it is articulating the infinite God, the eternal Logos who was "in the beginning with God, and was God" (John 1:1-2), choosing to assume human form. This isn't merely a metaphor; it's the astonishing reality of Jesus Christ, who, though existing in the form of God, "did not consider equality with God as something to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:6-7). This self-emptying, this taking on of physical existence, means that the Creator literally walked among His creation. The phrase "dwelt among us" further deepens this concept, evoking the imagery of the tabernacle where God's presence resided with Israel (Exodus 25:8), signifying that in Jesus, God's very essence was not just present, but intimately available and visible to humanity.
The crucial turning point, and the song’s ultimate message, lies in the declaration, "and we beheld His glory." This isn't a casual glance or a fleeting observation; it speaks to a profound, Spirit-illuminated recognition of the divine nature of Christ. Those who encountered Jesus during His earthly ministry, and indeed, all believers through faith, are invited to witness this glory. The disciples on the Mount of Transfiguration saw a powerful manifestation of His divine radiance (Matthew 17:1-8). Even in His ordinary acts, such as turning water into wine, John notes that Jesus "manifested his glory, and his disciples believed in him" (John 2:11). The glory beheld was not always outward splendor but an inward truth—the perfect holiness, unblemished love, supernatural power, and redemptive purpose that defined His life, culminating in His sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection. It’s a glory evident in His compassion for the sick, His authority over nature, His wisdom in teaching, and His victory over sin and death. This "beholding" is not just with physical eyes but with spiritual understanding, a revelation granted by God's grace (2 Corinthians 4:6).
Sandi Patty's rendition, amplified by the inclusion of Larnelle Harris, delivers this monumental theological truth with an unparalleled vocal prowess that elevates the message without overshadowing it. Their combined artistry serves as a vessel for the weight of John 1:14, allowing the profound implications of God incarnate to wash over the soul. The power of the vocalists is harnessed to convey reverence and awe, guiding those immersed in the music to a deeper appreciation of who Christ is and what His incarnation means for salvation and divine relationship. The song stands as a powerful call to contemplate the living Word, encouraging a personal encounter with the One whose glory was made manifest. It serves as an enduring reminder that the historical event of Christ's arrival is not just ancient history, but a vibrant, ongoing reality for all who believe, enabling us to continuously behold His glory through faith and in the transforming power of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18). This song therefore becomes an anthem for profound theological reflection, guiding us to marvel anew at the incredible truth that God indeed "dwelt among us," allowing humanity to truly behold His eternal glory.