O come all you unfaithful
Come weak and unstable
Come know you are not alone
O come barren and waiting ones
Weary of praying, come
See what your God has done
Christ is born, Christ is born
Christ is born for you
O come bitter and broken
Come with fears unspoken
Come taste of His perfect love
O come guilty and hiding ones
There is no need to run
See what your God has done
He’s the Lamb who was given
Slain for our pardon
His promise is peace
For those who believe
So come, though you have nothing
Come He is the offering
Come see what your God has done
O Come, All You Unfaithful
O Come, All You Unfaithful Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"O Come, All You Unfaithful" by Sovereign Grace Music stands as a poignant invitation, diverging from traditional Christmas carols that often call the joyful or faithful to worship. This song intentionally speaks to those feeling distant, flawed, or burdened, directly addressing the "unfaithful," "weak," "unstable," "barren," "weary," "bitter," "broken," "guilty," and "hiding ones." It reframes the Christmas message as a welcome not just for the devout, but specifically for those in need of grace, highlighting the inclusivity of God's love offered through Christ. The recurring call, "See what your God has done," serves as a central theme, urging listeners to witness and receive the transformative work accomplished in Christ.
The song's message is further emphasized by its presentation, with the official song video being released on October 10, 2020. This release timing, while predating the traditional Christmas season, positioned the song as a timely message of hope, particularly relevant in challenging times, reminding listeners that the reason for Christ's birth is deeply personal and intended for those who feel least deserving. The video's presentation often complements the introspective and grace-focused nature of the lyrics, reinforcing the song's core theme of finding acceptance and peace in Christ regardless of one's state.
Central to the song's meaning is the profound assertion "Christ is born for you." This line shifts the focus from a historical event to a personal reality, emphasizing that the Nativity is not merely a past occurrence but an act of God with direct implications for the listener, especially for those who feel flawed or estranged. The lyrics then expand this message beyond the birth, moving towards the purpose of Christ's life and ultimate sacrifice. The declaration, "He’s the Lamb who was given, Slain for our pardon," connects the manger to the cross, drawing on powerful biblical imagery that points to atonement and forgiveness made possible through Christ. This underscores the foundational Christian belief that peace with God is secured not through human merit but through Christ's redemptive work.
The themes woven throughout the song find deep roots in scripture. The invitation to come weary and burdened echoes Christ's words in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." The welcome extended to those who feel broken, guilty, or unfaithful reflects the heart of the Gospel message, exemplified in parables like the prodigal son (Luke 15) and the persistent teaching that Christ came not for the righteous, but for sinners (Mark 2:17). The identification of Christ as "the Lamb who was given, Slain for our pardon" directly references titles used for Jesus, such as John the Baptist's declaration in John 1:29, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" and the numerous Old Testament prophecies and sacrificial systems fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice. The promise of peace for those who believe aligns with passages like Romans 5:1, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Ultimately, the song serves as a melodic summation of the Gospel invitation – come as you are, for Christ has done everything necessary to welcome you into His presence and offer pardon and peace.
