Sidewalk Prophets - Closer Lyrics

Closer Video

Closer Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Closer by Sidewalk Prophets: Exploring the Song's Message and Biblical Analysis

Introduction:
We will analyze the main key messages of the song and explore its meaning. Furthermore, we will discuss any available inspiration or story behind the song. Finally, we will critically analyze if the song aligns with biblical principles and provide relevant biblical references.

Key Messages of the Song:

"Closer" is a powerful song that conveys the desire to draw closer to God. The lyrics express a longing to be in the presence of God and to deepen the relationship with Him. The main key messages of the song can be identified chronologically through the lines:

Verse 1:
"I've been tired and weary, heading back home
Never thought it'd be so hard, walking the narrow road
Through all the toils and trials, Lord You never left me
So I'm finally closer, closer to where I wanna be"

The first verse acknowledges the challenges and struggles faced on the journey of faith. It emphasizes that even in weariness, God has been present and faithful. The desire to be closer to God is expressed as the ultimate goal, a place of rest and fulfillment.

Chorus:
"A man's got a worth, but the problem has been
I spent my whole life working, instead of taking Your hand
Lord won't You burn away all that keeps You from me
I want You here closer, closer than anything"

The chorus highlights the realization that earthly pursuits and distractions have hindered the pursuit of a closer relationship with God. It acknowledges the need for God to remove anything that comes between Him and the individual. The desire for God's presence to be closer than anything else is expressed.

Verse 2:
"What I know about fire, You use it to refine my heart
What I know about the ocean, when You tell it to part it parts
Even though the darkest of nights, it draws me to my knees
And it brings me closer, closer when I hear You speak"

The second verse reflects on the transformative work of God in the individual's life. It acknowledges that trials, represented by fire, are used by God to refine and shape the heart. The reference to the ocean parting alludes to God's power and control over even the most challenging circumstances. The darkest of nights are seen as opportunities for drawing closer to God and hearing His voice.

Bridge:
"Blessed are the broken, blessed are the weak
Blessed are the hungry and thirsty, blessed are those that seek
Blessed are the lonely, for they will have a love to spare
Blessed are the poor in spirit, Lord Your kingdom is there"

The bridge of the song highlights the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-12). It emphasizes that those who recognize their brokenness, weakness, and need for God are blessed. The call to seek God and experience His love is emphasized, as well as the promise of God's Kingdom for the poor in spirit.

Meaning and Inspiration:
The song "Closer" expresses the universal longing to draw closer to God and deepen the relationship with Him. It acknowledges the struggles and challenges faced on the journey of faith but also emphasizes God's faithfulness and presence throughout. The song inspires listeners to reflect on their own pursuit of God and encourages them to prioritize a closer relationship with Him above all else.

Although the specific inspiration or story behind the song "Closer" by Sidewalk Prophets is not readily available, it resonates with the experiences and desires of many believers. The lyrics reflect the ups and downs of the Christian walk and the longing to be in God's presence. The song serves as a reminder that despite the difficulties faced, God is always near and ready to draw us closer to Himself.

Biblical Analysis:
To critically analyze if the song "Closer" aligns with biblical principles, let us examine the key messages of the song and compare them to relevant biblical references.

The desire to be closer to God: The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the importance of seeking a close relationship with God. James 4:8 says, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." Psalm 73:28 also states, "But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds." The song's message aligns with biblical principles in recognizing the need to draw near to God.

Acknowledging challenges and God's faithfulness: The Bible acknowledges that the Christian journey is not without difficulties. However, it also assures believers of God's faithfulness and presence throughout. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." The song echoes this sentiment by acknowledging the challenges faced but also recognizing God's unwavering faithfulness.

Removing distractions and prioritizing God: The song highlights the need to remove anything that hinders a closer relationship with God. This aligns with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:33, where He encourages believers to seek God's kingdom above all else. The lyrics express the desire for God's presence to be closer than anything else, reflecting the biblical principle of prioritizing God in our lives.

Transformation through trials: The song acknowledges that trials and hardships can be used by God to refine and shape the heart. This aligns with biblical teachings in James 1:2-4, which states, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." The song's recognition of the transformative power of trials reflects a biblical understanding.

The Beatitudes: The bridge of the song references the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. The Beatitudes highlight the blessedness of those who recognize their need for God and seek Him. This aligns with biblical teachings in Matthew 5:3-12, where Jesus pronounces blessings on the poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry and thirsty for righteousness, and those who seek God. The inclusion of the Beatitudes in the song's lyrics demonstrates a biblical foundation for its message.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the song "Closer" by Sidewalk Prophets conveys the desire to draw closer to God and deepen the relationship with Him. The song's key messages align with biblical principles, emphasizing the importance of seeking God, acknowledging challenges, removing distractions, and finding transformation through trials. The inclusion of the Beatitudes further adds a biblical foundation to the song's message. "Closer" serves as an inspirational reminder to prioritize a closer relationship with God above all else.