The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir - Worthy is The Lamb Lyrics

Worthy is The Lamb

Worthy is The Lamb Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir's rendition of "Worthy is The Lamb" is a powerful expression of worship and gratitude centered on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Known for their large-scale vocal arrangements and heartfelt delivery, the choir brings a profound depth to this declaration of faith. The song's core message revolves around thanksgiving for the sacrifice made on the cross and the subsequent exaltation of Jesus. This is conveyed through verses that express personal gratitude for the "Amazing Grace" received through the shedding of sin and shame, and a chorus that shifts focus to corporate worship, proclaiming the worthiness of the "Lamb."

The initial stanzas lay a foundation of personal reflection and thankfulness. Phrases like "Thank you for the cross, Lord" and "Thank you for the price you paid" directly acknowledge the atonement. The mention of "bearing all my sin and shame" highlights the personal impact of Christ's sacrifice, leading to the reception of "Amazing Grace." This theme continues with gratitude for the "nail-pierced hands," a poignant image of the crucifixion, and the transformative power of being washed in a "cleansing flow," resulting in "forgiveness and embrace." These lines articulate the fundamental Christian experience of salvation and spiritual renewal through Christ's work.

The song crescendos into a declaration found in the recurring chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb." This title for Jesus holds significant theological weight, frequently appearing in the Book of Revelation. The lyrics describe the Lamb "Seated on the throne," depicting Christ's post-resurrection authority and reign. The imagery of "We crown You now with many crowns" draws directly from Revelation 19:12, symbolizing ultimate authority and glory. The proclamation "You reign victorious!" underscores the triumph of Christ over sin and death. Further descriptive phrases such as "High and lifted up" echo Isaiah 6:1 and John 12:32, signifying Christ's exalted status. Identifying Jesus as "Son of God" affirms his divine nature, while "The darling of Heaven, crucified" juxtaposes his beloved status in heaven with his earthly suffering, emphasizing the profound humility and love inherent in the sacrifice. The repeated assertion "Worthy is the Lamb" serves as the central worshipful acclamation, summarizing the song's theme of Christ's supreme worthiness to receive honor and praise.

The structure, moving from personal gratitude to collective adoration of the exalted Lamb, builds emotional and spiritual momentum. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the central declaration of Christ's worthiness and victorious reign. The song's themes are deeply rooted in Christian scripture. The concept of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world is found in John 1:29. The sacrifice on the cross for sin is a core teaching throughout the New Testament (e.g., Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:24). The cleansing blood is referenced in 1 John 1:7 and Hebrews 9:22. The exaltation of Jesus to the throne is described in Ephesians 1:20-21 and Hebrews 12:2. The scene of the Lamb being worshipped as worthy is extensively depicted in Revelation, particularly chapters 4 and 5, where the Lamb is found worthy to open the scroll and receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise (Revelation 5:12). The imagery of crowning with many crowns is found in Revelation 19:12, and the title "King of kings and Lord of lords" in Revelation 19:16 underscores his victorious reign. The song's emphasis on Jesus as the "Son of God" is foundational (John 3:16, Hebrews 1:1-3).

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir released a video performance of "Worthy is The Lamb" on 2009-05-23. This release brought their powerful vocal arrangement and the song's message to a wider audience through visual media. The song serves as both a personal hymn of thanksgiving for salvation and a corporate anthem of worship, uniting believers in proclaiming the ultimate value and authority of Jesus Christ, the Lamb who was slain and is now seated on the throne, reigning victorious and worthy of all praise.