Strive to Be - Disciple of Christ Lyrics

Disciple of Christ | Official 2024 Theme Song feat. Benjamin Josiah | Youth Christian Music

Disciple of Christ Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

"Disciple of Christ" by Strive to Be, featuring Benjamin Josiah, emerges as a powerful anthem, designated as the official 2024 Youth Christian Music theme song. Released on October 27, 2023, the track immediately establishes a tone of unwavering faith and active commitment to Jesus Christ. The song's core message revolves around the identity and responsibility of a believer, particularly relevant for a youth audience navigating the complexities of life and faith. It serves as a declaration, solidifying the listener's stance as one dedicated to following Christ.

The opening verse sets the scene by acknowledging life's inevitable challenges, symbolized by "stars burn out and the strong winds come." In the face of such adversity, the focus shifts to unwavering faith, lifting eyes "to the rising Sun," a common metaphor for Christ as the source of hope and light. The lyrics then transition from passive reliance to active service, proclaiming Christ as the "prince of peace" who stabilizes the soul, while simultaneously declaring oneself as "His hands and feet," ready to share His message so "the whole world will know." This duality of receiving peace and actively serving forms a foundational aspect of Christian discipleship.

The chorus serves as the central declaration, boldly stating, "I'm a disciple of Christ." This is reinforced by a vow of steadfastness: "I will never leave Him." The lyrics further articulate the nature of Christ using fundamental descriptors from scripture: "He is the truth and the life" (John 14:6) and "He's the strength in my weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). The call to action returns with the commitment to "shine 'til the whole world sees," positioning the disciple as a beacon reflecting Christ, who is identified as "the light that will set us free" (John 8:12). This section encapsulates the essence of the disciple's identity, reliance on Christ, and outward mission.

Verse two continues to explore the commitment, presenting life's choices as a journey where "giving Him my life was the only way." This highlights the transformative decision inherent in becoming a disciple. Christ is depicted as essential sustenance and guidance, referenced through powerful biblical imagery: "He is my fire by night" (alluding to the pillar of fire guiding Israel in Exodus 13:21), and "the air in each breath." Such imagery underscores the profound dependence on Christ for direction and existence. The verse culminates in a renewed pledge to "stand and testify," signifying a public and repeated declaration of faith.

The song effectively weaves together themes of personal identity in Christ, reliance on His divine nature, and the outward expression of faith through service and witness. The repeated emphasis on being "a disciple of Christ" throughout the choruses and post-choruses reinforces this central identity. The song's structure, with its clear verses building upon the foundational declaration of the chorus, creates a sense of unwavering resolve. As a theme song, it provides a clear and compelling message for youth, encouraging them to embrace their identity as followers of Christ, draw strength from Him, and actively share His light with the world. It is an inspirational call to live a life of dedicated discipleship, rooted in the knowledge of Christ as the ultimate truth, life, strength, and light.