If you could see what I once was
If you could go with me
Back to where I started from
Then I know you would see
A miracle of love that took me
In it's sweet embrace
And made me what I am today
Just an old sinner saved by grace
I'm just a sinner saved by grace
When I stood condemned to death
He took my place
Now I live and breathe in freedom
With each breath of life I take
Loved and forgiven, backed with a living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace
How could I boast on anything
I've ever seen or done?
How could I dare to claim as mine
The victories God has won?
Where would I be
Had God not brought me
Gently to this place?
I'm here to say I'm nothing
But a sinner saved by grace
I'm just a sinner saved by grace
When I stood condemned to death
He took my place
Now I grow and breathe in freedom
With each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiven backed with a living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace
Now I grow and breathe in freedom
With each breath of life I take
I'm loved and forgiven backed with a living
I'm just a sinner saved by grace
Sinner Saved By Grace
Sinner Saved By Grace Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
The Cathedrals’ presentation of "Sinner Saved By Grace," released on November 2, 2012, immediately establishes itself as a powerful musical declaration of a foundational truth of the Christian faith: the journey from spiritual brokenness to redemption through God's unmerited favor. This song unfolds not just as a performance but as a testimony, painting a vivid picture of a life marked by sin and separation from God, acknowledging the weight of that condition and the inability to fix it through human effort. It speaks candidly about past failures, mistakes made, and the distance from a holy God that defines the state of being lost. However, the narrative doesn't dwell in despair; it pivots dramatically to the moment of encountering divine grace. This encounter is depicted as life-altering, bringing forgiveness, cleansing, and a brand new identity. The music itself supports this transformation, often moving from more reflective or somber tones depicting the past to soaring harmonies and a sense of profound relief and joy as the reality of salvation takes hold. The strength of the vocal delivery conveys the deep sincerity and overwhelming gratitude that comes with experiencing such a radical change.
Analyzing the message through the lens of Scripture reveals its deep biblical roots. The initial state described in the song aligns precisely with what Romans 3:23 tells us: "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." It recognizes the reality of our fallen nature and the just consequence of sin, which Romans 6:23 states is death. The honesty about being a "sinner" is not one of mere regret but an acknowledgement of a spiritual reality. The turning point, the moment of being "saved by grace," directly echoes Ephesians 2:8-9: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." The song beautifully illustrates this gift, emphasizing that salvation is not earned through any personal merit or religious effort, but is a free act of God's love and mercy received through faith. The transformation that follows is the heart of the message, reflecting the promise of 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" It’s about more than just forgiveness; it's about being made new, a spiritual rebirth akin to what Jesus described in John 3:3. The song captures the wonder of being cleansed, as Isaiah 1:18 describes, where sins that were like scarlet are made white as snow through God’s power. It is this truth—that a sinner, undeserving and unable to save themselves, can be completely redeemed and given a new life solely through the grace offered in Jesus Christ—that provides the song its enduring power and its ability to inspire. It’s a timeless declaration of hope for anyone who feels the weight of their own imperfection, pointing them toward the boundless love and transforming power available through surrender to God’s grace.