Photo by Steven Wright
Contemporary Christian artist Worship leader Cody Carnes started his career with EPs The Lighter Side in 2009 and All He Says I Am in 2014 before signing. He released The Darker the Night The Brighter the Morning in 2017 and Run To The Father this year. He is also the husband of Kari Jobe.
Check out my reviews of Run to the Father and The Cross Has the Final Word.
Cory Asbury is a worship pastor at Radiant Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is also a contributor to Bethel’s network of worship leaders. He started as an intern in 2005 with the International House of Prayer and officially became active in 2007. He released four albums, including:
- Holy (2008)
- Let Me See Your Eyes (2009)
- Reckless Love (2018)
- To Love a Fool (2020)
Asbury received three GMA Dove Awards, two K-Love Fan Awards, and one We Love Christian Music Award for his work on Reckless Love.
Check out my reviews of The Father’s House, Endless Alleluia, and Reckless Love.
Lyrics can be found at https://genius.com/Cody-carnes-christ-be-magnified-lyrics.
Note to new users: This is a different kind of review site! Read About the Berean Test and Evaluation Criteria prior to reading this review. I strongly encourage you to consider the potential blessings and dangers of this artist‘s theology by visiting Resources.
1. What message does the song communicate?
This song is about creation worshipping Christ, offering actions that the world does to demonstrate this truth. These reasons include:
- Non-human creation who cannot speak declare His glory
- Proclaiming Christ’s fame
- Worshipping with our native cry post-death
Carnes and Asbury do not worship idols, rejoicing with Christ regardless of outcome. They will not be swayed or tossed about by feelings, but find their anchor by carefully examining things; believing the truth. It is the cross that changes them, causing their old self to die and new self to take life. When Christ returns, their hearts will sing.
Score: 10/10
2. How much of the lyrics line up with Scripture?
All of it is Scriptural.
[Verse 1]
Lines 1-4: That is, creation that is not human. According to Luke 19:37-40, a crowd was essentially lauding Jesus. However, according to Jesus, if they kept silent, the rocks would cry out, thus, cementing this illustration as parallel to Jesus’ illustration. Also, according to Psalm 19:1-4, creation declares God’s glory without words. However, Carnes and Asbury reasonably assess that if such creatures were to speak human language, they would say “Christ be magnified”.
[Verse 2]
Lines 1-4: If we spread Christ’s fame and superiority, his name would make its rounds around the world. We would hear “Christ be magnified” from some who, as stated in Verse 1, repented and trusted in Jesus.
[Chorus]
Lines 1-6: That is, Carnes and Asbury worship Jesus (Matthew 2:11, Matthew 14:33, Matthew 21:9, Matthew 28:8-9, Matthew 28:16-17, and Luke 24:50-53, John 12:13, and John 20:28).
[Verse 3]
Lines 1-5: That is, our native cry after we receive our incorruptible, immortal, spiritual bodies (1 Corinthians 15:44) after Christ returns and we are raptured (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17), every knee will bow and confess Christ as Lord (Romans 14:11 and Philippians 2:10-11).
[Bridge]
Line 1: Carnes and Asbury obey the first and second commandments in Exodus 20:3-6.
Line 2: That is, the idol places Carnes and Asbury in the fire. This references the events in Daniel 3:1-30, where Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego refused to worship the golden image, were thrown into the fiery furnace, and were protected by what many consider the pre-incarnate Christ. Rejoicing whether God protected or not was their response. Carnes and Asbury echo this praise.
Line 3: Rather than tossed and turned by fleeting feelings, Carnes and Asbury will carefully examine everything, believing the truth (1 Thessalonians 5:21).
Lines 4 and 5: Carnes and Asbury must die to self to follow Jesus (Matthew 5:29, Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Mark 9:43, Luke 9:23, Acts 20:24, Philippians 3:2-11, Hebrews 11:25, and 1 Peter 2:11).
Line 6: When Carnes and Asbury participate in Christ’s sufferings, they will also be with Him when He returns (1 Peter 4:13).
Line 7: That is, when Christ returns (Matthew 24:43, Acts 1:9-11, 1 Corinthians 11:26, 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4, 2 Peter 3:10, and Revelation 16:15).
Line 8: Carnes and Asbury’s heart will sing the Chorus.
Score: 10/10
3. How would an outsider interpret the song?
Creation magnifies Christ without words. Christians magnify Jesus by telling others about Him.
Unbelievers will likely comprehend that Carnes and Asbury don’t worship idols and will rejoice because God is there with them. They may not agree with Carnes and Asbury that Christianity is true, but should see that Carnes and Asbury do not believe based on feelings.
As for death that leads to life, including Joining Christ in suffering, I doubt that they will comprehend its meaning without deep research or experiencing it for themselves. Ditto for Jesus returning in glory and the connection between native cry and rapture. They may not understand Carnes and Asbury’s reasoning, but will know that they worship by singing, believing that creation itself points us to Jesus.
Score: 6/10
4. What does this song glorify?
It glorifies God that Carnes and Asbury magnify Christ, avoid idols, and crucify their flesh to follow Him.
Score: 10/10
Closing Comments
Cody Carnes and Cory Asbury’s Christ Be Magnified is magnificent. They glorify and magnify Christ by making Him famous, worshipping Him, avoiding idolatry, and surrendering to Him, especially when receiving their glorified bodies. Unbelievers will comprehend most of this song’s important bits, but require more than a basic understanding of the Bible to understand the death that leads to life.
I recommend this song for corporate worship for non-seeker sensitive churches.
Final Score: 9/10
Artist Info
Track: Christ Be Magnified (listen to the song)
Artist: Cody Carnes and Cory Asbury
Album: Run To The Father (Cody Carnes’ release)
Genre: Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)
Release Year: 2020
Duration: 5:03 (Carnes); 5:12 (Asbury)
Agree? Disagree? Don’t be shy or have a cow! Calmly and politely state your case in a comment, below.
Updates:
08/10/2022 – After prayerfully considering Neal Cruco’s words and noticing the word “enraptured”, I updated my commentary on all sections and adjusted scoring for sections 1, 2, and 4, raising this song’s score from 7.5/10 to 9/10 and corporate worship appropriateness to “perhaps”.
05/19/2022 – Quinn’s comment made me realize that I could recommend this song for corporate worship if worship leaders change Verse 3.
05/17/2022 – After prayerfully consideration Dave Whitcroft’s comments, I agreed with him about Verse 1. Thus, I updated my review to update my current thinking about Verse 2, raising the song’s score from 6.5/10 to 7.5/10.
04/08/2022 – Rescored sections 1, 2, and 4 to match similar reviews, raising this song’s overall score from 5.5/10 to 6.5/10.
11/02/2021 – Added an EP to Carnes’ list.
07/16/2021 – Per Artist Theology announcement, I expanded the red text to encourage others to study Bethel Music’s theology, which Asbury is a leader.
07/10/2021 – Updated section 1, bullet 1, to be consistent with commentary in section 2.
03/23/2021 – Updated per repetition announcement. Also, fixed a few spelling and grammatical errors.
Comments
Railway Street music
I agree – it is such a great song overall but this phrase just does not make sense even with a fair hearing
In our church we have decided to gently edit to:
“If I join You in Your sufferings
Then I’ll join Your rising too”
Dave Whitcroft
Yip, we changed it at Orangefield and PCI general assembly this June to join you when WE rise. Is that Railway street Lisburn by the way? If so Hello!
Dan
I’m not bothered at all by “native cry,” but am bothered by another sloppy line. Specifically, I am bothered by the line, “And if I join You in Your suffering, then I’ll join You when You rise”
You state, “they will also be with Him when He returns” but that’s not what the song says. The song says, “”when You rise.”
Christ has already risen indeed! Matthew 28:6, 1 Corinthians 6:14, Romans 6:9; 8:34, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Eph 1:20, etc. We do not look forward to His future resurrection, but back on His resurrection in the 1st Century AD. True, we will be raised if we fall asleep. If this line said “when we rise” or “as You rose”. I’d find it a lot less unsettling. 1 Peter 4:13, Matthew 16:24, and other places imply that while we are commanded to join His sufferings as we are persecuted by the world, we have a choice. Phil 3:10 seems the only place that supports this line–maybe, but a careful reading doesn’t. Paul wants to know the Power of Jesus’ resurrection being future.
I don’t accuse them of deliberate error nor of an intention to lead astray here. Other than that line, I LOVE this song’s words.
Doug Schauer
Dan, I agree with you. That one line in Bridge 3 which indicates that Christ has not yet risen hits at the core of our faith. The already (past tense) risen Christ is the #1 identifying fact that separates Christianity from all other (false) religions. Without the resurrection, there is no Christianity. For the lyrics to even hint that Christ is not yet risen (“when” (future tense) you rise) render this song as inadmissible in the worship song repertoire of our praise and worship group. I don’t see any way to sing a song that speaks of the resurrection and rising of Jesus as something to take place in the future. It is scriptural that we can partake of His sufferings in this life via persecution toward our faith. It is also very scriptural that we will join the “already risen” Christ when we rise from the dead. But Christ is already risen as the first fruits of all who will rise. We will rise to meet the risen Christ, but we won’t join Him “when” He rises because He has already risen and we haven’t.
Leen
Didn’t the songwriters have something else in mind? I’m sure they don’t really think that Jesus hasn’t risen yet. If there’s one thing Christians agree on, that’s it.
Doug Schauer
Leen,
I am 100% sure of their faith and testimonies. I absolutely love worship with both Cody Barnes and Cory Asbury. They leave you no doubts about their genuineness of faith in the risen Jesus our Lord. I only question the one lyric line in the song that I feel is a poor representation of the “past” resurrection. The lyric line itself could easily be misinterpreted. I do not think that Cody or Cory would ever be misunderstood in person. But, this analytical Berean test of the specific words in a song and the criteria that the lyrics have to stand on their own, would cause me to question the lyric line that states “when” you (Christ) rise. I write Christian worship music myself and am very much aware of the importance that “every single word” matters when I am representing Christ and God’s Word in a song. I do not question the motive or faith of the songwriters. I only question the use of the word “when” in relation to the rising of Christ. The scriptures never mention a second rising. The scriptures state that when “we” rise it is to meet him in the air when he comes “down” from heaven. 1 Thes 4:16-17. I guess someone could “presume” that after Christ comes down from heaven that He would have to rise to go back up to heaven. But this is never mentioned. It simply says that after we rise to meet Him that we will then be with Him forever.
I just question the use of the word “when” which infers a future event or an event that has not yet occurred. It would be helpful to hear how they intend that line to be understood. I am sure I am just not understanding their desired intention. But if I am not catching their intent, am I the only one?
Leen
I fully understand what you mean. It’s just that I am very curious about their reasons.
Neal Cruco
Vince,
Many people have contested your judgment of verse 3 with Scripture references. However, I will focus here on refuting your own words directly. In all honesty, your argument in the review does not make any sense to me. You say, “One could argue that our “native cry” is before the fall; However, if that were true, then, it would be possible to enter heaven apart from Christ. His sacrifice would be in vain (Galatians 2:21).”
The problem is that Galatians 2:21 is talking about righteousness gained through following God’s law. If that were possible for us, then Christ’s sacrifice would be vain because we could make ourselves right before God through following His law. But that cannot be, because the law simply shows how sinful we are; it cannot justify us. (Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16)
The situation before the Fall was completely different! Adam and Eve lived in perfect communion with God. They knew neither shame, nor hardship, nor even death. (Genesis 3:7,17-19). God apparently walked among them in the Garden! (Genesis 3:8) So they had righteousness! They had a close, unbroken relationship with God. They didn’t need to redeem themselves. They didn’t need to restore their relationship with God. They didn’t need salvation of any kind, because they hadn’t sinned. The Fall changed all of that, soiling us with a stain so deep that only God could remove it. Only then did sin enter the world. Only then did humanity stand condemned before God without being covered with Jesus’ blood. Only then did we experience death. (Romans 5:12-19)
So I believe it is nonsensical to say that our native cry is not to magnify Christ because we can’t clean up the mess we made of ourselves. God created us to worship, glorify, and honor Him. (Isaiah 43:7) THAT is our native cry and inmost melody, regardless of what we actually do. As an analogy, I could leave the USA and live in, say, France for 20, 30, 50, or even more years- but I would never be native to France. That would never be my original home. Similarly, we can spend our entire life glorifying ourselves and yet still have the glorification of God as our native purpose. I simply cannot find the slightest Scriptural support for saying otherwise.
Now, if that point was conceded, I think the next objection would be “but not everyone will be saved”. Which is true, and could be a minor point against the song. But we know that there will be a time that “at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11, NLT) Even if I am stretching that verse too far in claiming that it supports verse 3, I do not consider this a significant fault in the lyrics, if it is a fault at all. In fact, the lyrics could just as easily refer to the new heaven and new earth described in Revelation 21, which only the redeemed will enter.
Vince Wright
Neal,
Thank you for your comment!
After prayerfully considering your words, I can see now that there’s no connection between Christ dying needlessly and our “native cry” as before the fall.
I’ve looked again at Verse 3 and noticed something different that I missed before. Namely, the word “enraptured”. This of course refers to the rapture, which I won’t dare discuss when specifically that will take place! However, when I thought about this event in the context of our native cry, we would be in the state of our immortal, incorruptible, spiritual bodies (1 Corinthians 15:44), magnifying Christ. Thus, dying and acquiring our new body via rapture is how we acquire our native cry that magnifies Christ. How does that happen? According to 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, the “dead in Christ will rise first” before we meet the Lord in the air. In this state, we would have our native cry, fully able to worship, glorify, and honor Him. If this is what Carnes was going for, perhaps he could have made it more clear. What do you think about this argument?
I’m ok with the word “every” because of my conversations with Steve. He used Scripture to convince me that the word “all” (or “every”) doesn’t always mean “every single instance” (see https://yuriystasyuk.com/relearn-the-bible-10-verses-where-all-does-not-mean-all/).
-Vince Wright
Neal Cruco
Vince,
That argument sounds correct to me. I agree that we will not return fully to our native cry until we have acquired our new and incorruptible bodies.
Vince Wright
Neal,
Great! I adjusted my review. I’ll update the Song Review Index early next week.
-Vince Wright
past0r_r0bert
How could verse 3 be re-written to be more accurate (according to Vince’s assessment)?
Tom
The lyrics read: “When every creature FINDS its inmost melody. And every human heart (FINDS) its native cry. We are made and meant to worship God. That is the purpose of our living determined by our creator. That’s is what the song is all about. Why is the question if we have a sinful nature or not relevant for this song?
Isaiah 43:21. “This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.”
Revelations 4:11, “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.”
Matthew 21:16, “And they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, Out of the mouth of little children and nursing children you have brought forth praise?”
a reference made by Jesus to Psalm 8:2:
“Of the mouth of young children, not speaking and sucking milk, thou hast made perfect praising, for thine enemies; that thou destroy the enemy and the avenger. (Out of the mouths of young children, who do not speak, but who suck milk, thou hast rebuked thy mighty enemies; yea, thou hast destroyed the enemy and the avenger.)”
A native cry indeed.
Michael Ramsey
Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. and Psalms 8. Think about this when is says creation Magnifies the Lord.
Vince Wright
Michael,
Thank you for your comments!
My issue is not that the heavens and God’s creation declare God’s glory, as pointed out in Psalm 19 and Romans 1. It’s that mere articulation and our sinful, native cry don’t inherently magnify Christ in us.
-Vince Wright
Michael Ramsey
I understand. Love reading your reviews by the way they give me something to think about when listening to worship music. Thanks for responding quickly also.
Vince Wright
Michael,
Sure thing! Also, I rescored sections 1, 2, and 4 slightly higher, giving the song a small bump up in score. 5.5 was too low a rating for this song.
-Vince Wright
Andrew
Thank you so much for this review. The first verse seems to be the most discussed. It took me a bit but I understand the objection you have. Creation includes humanity. Our nature is not good in this world fallen by sin so creation becoming articulate includes all people. That kind of ties into the problems of the 3rd verse which troubles me the most. I feel the church is falling more into a self worshipping relationship with God where He just wants us happy and finding our “true” self is of utmost importance even if it doesn’t line up with scripture’s direction for our identity in Christ. Our native cry is “ME, ME, ME”. I can handle the first verse as I do feel even an unbeliever would not tend to pull humanity into creation that becomes articulate because humans already speak. That third verse however is a barrier to me at the moment even though other parts counter what it says (“I won’t be formed by feelings”).
ken
Just curious. Has the author of this article – or anyone who has responded to it – actually talked to the song writers to find out what they meant by the lyrics? Or have you assumed an interpretation that may not necessarily be true so you could exercise your gift of criticism…?
Vince Wright
Ken,
Great question!
No, I haven’t talked to the songwriters for their viewpoint. I do that intentionally because I want the lyrics to speak for themselves without the influence of the author’s intent. This methodology allows the lyrics to stand or fall on their own merits. If you disagree with my interpretation, make a case and I’ll consider revision.
-Vince Wright
Laura
I’ve never commented here before! 🙂
I guess everyone has different visions for songwriting/singing, but the very form of a song (that it is poetic) basically means it should often not be taken literally. Sometimes you have to seek what the songs “means” and not just what it “says”. Reading through most of the comments, I’m taking that the original writer (Vince?) is giving such a low rating based purely on how an outsider would interpret it? I’m suggesting a kinder rating and an update to the original post in this light. 🙂 (HEAR! HEAR!)
I think the first verse is talking about if creation (minus humans, obviously, as we can speak) could speak with words, they would sing Christ Be Magnified (Luke 19:40).
“The altar of my life” – isn’t it obvious that this is in reference to being a living sacrifice? I don’t see how this is bad. lol.
“native cry” could be an issue, but I think you could interpret it as the song we were meant to sing – “Christ be magnified”. Powerful stuff.
Also, isn’t it ok for an outsider not to understand a song every once in a while and have to do some digging to get it? Maybe some of these songs with more depth just need a more thorough explanation from the worship leader when being introduced. Teachable moments.
My only initial issue with the song (before coming here lol) was that dying with Christ when taken literally (and I’m sure they mean dying to self and physical death) is pretty brave to sing and I don’t know if we should sing things we don’t mean.
Those are my thoughts!
Laura
vikky
This is probably the best analysis of this song that I’ve found so far in this comment section
Laura
Well, thanks Vikky! I’ve decided to introduce the song when the timing is right and may edit a few words in the bridge and explain a few parts of the song when I introduce it. 🙂
Pam
I love the great analytical dialogue that has ensued from Vince’s initial critique. I can see valid biblical support to interpret that all creation would cry out, including the rocks, to exalt God’s name. That indeed was my interpretation the first time I heard the song. However, there was enough “questionable” lyrics, that lead me to see what Vince would have to say. I think the “ native call” line is too vague to be interpreted, without doubt, as biblically sound, and would say the same about the “altar of our life.”
From the comments it seems evident that each person is fairly biblically knowledgeable. Therein lies my concern for a large percentage of Sunday worshippers. It is sad to say that in many church settings, likely a great percentage of worship participants do not open their bibles outside so Sunday church setting. They do not have the depth of knowledge needed to form Biblically correct connections between lyrics and life applications. It’s highly likely many, even stronger Christians, give no thought to whether song lyrics meet a “Berean test”. Many are swept away by melody, harmony, beat, and a “this makes me feel good” experience. I am assuming all of the above conversations have been underlined by the thought or question, “do we need to be sure our worship songs are biblically correct” so we don’t lead non-believers or immature believer down pathways that take us away from God and His gospel instead of closer. So, knowing there is some conflict here, helps me determine if a song is appropriate for corporate worship. I appreciate the sincere efforts here.
Jake
Couldn’t agree more, I have honestly not done worship songs due to one line because trying to explain that line before the song would have not been worth what another song makes clear. Cultural relevance is important, but biblical clarity will be the deciding factor for me in song choice. Artistic expression is an important factor in lyrics, however, I’m convinced that Psalms and just Scripture in general give us enough poetic elements as a baseline for what would be acceptable in worship 🙂 that being said, I also have to submit to my pastor’s authority and pray for humility on any disagreements. Lastly, I try to focus on songs that clearly represent God’s Word, but I need grace for that as I have so much to learn!! 🙂
william byfleet
Over a year ago I made a comment on this song. Since then here in New Zealand Church has been closed down for an awful long time with worship going online . I will settle for any worship song that worships God as a follower of Jesus just so long as we can worship together I am learning not to focus on the differences. There is real division here on vaccination vs anti vax in the Church I mean ….thats sad . Keep praying for us ..it can’t be a good thing that the Government has effectively closed us even if we are complicit in that and we think we are doing the right thing. Also even quoting the bible is becoming political everywhere … America remains a spiritual powerhouse for all its foibles don’t give up your freedom to worship the one true living God.
Dave M
Like any text, the structure/format of the song, itself, lends clarity where individual phrases might get micro-assessed into confusion. If we understand the first verse as a ‘flashback’ to be both describing our pre-fall, originally-intended, created state AND the ongoing praise of God by creation (Ps 148) as well as statements from Jesus like the rocks “crying out.” Then, we can also understand the 2nd verse as a ‘flash forward’ to Christ’s return, when the brokenness of our ability to worship is fully restored. Both verses lend themselves to a coherent progression toward the cry “Christ be Magnified.” There are images just like this around the throne in Revelation.
What that leaves us with in the meantime between Genesis (pre-fall) and Revelation (post restoration), is the Bridge of the song which describes what the truths of the past and of the future imply for the way we live our lives NOW. The implication/application: we won’t bow to idols because God is who we are made to worship and he’s who everyone WILL worship in the end, whether they want to or not. The Bridge also states that we’ll hold fast to truth and trust it over our own feelings. When you take all these in context, then the chorus lyrics–which at first glance may be slightly confusing–become much clearer, because they are proclaiming that our lives are living sacrifices, that the “altar of my life” will magnify Christ because I won’t put idols there (not even my own feelings) and instead my life will be a sacrifice of praise (ie, “let his praise arise”).
Lisa N MacMillan
The word articulate also means to join together. I see it more as creation is joining together and lifting their voice to praise Christ.
Child of God
God has already lifted Christ, every nation shall bow before Him and every tongue confess. Who are we not to glorify Him. Indeed “Christ Be Magnified”
william
I’ve been a bit unhappy about ‘May Christ be magnified from the altar of my life’. Altars in the bible all external and physical not internal .Of course people keep telling me that we are a living sacrifice etc. Plenty of chance for God to tell us we need internal altars but he doesn’t ..he did away with intercessory priests and physical temples why we want to re introduce internal altars .. still .. when you read psalm 69 where it talks of magnifying God its really in the sense of exalting him. Overall any lyric that requires that much theoretical analysis and worry is a ‘stretch ‘ for me. But I’ve agreed with my Pastor to sing it he tells me my life is an altar …is it? .One thing I’ve discovered to be a truth..pastors of every church I’ve ever been to are never wrong. Funny that.. it has a nice tune and I like singing it but I also like singing at soccer matches and thats not Godly at all. Unity in Love per Corinthians is the answer there’s always been trouble in church right from the very first one.. I note the Author is a contributor to Bethel ..well to quote Nat King Cole …’there may trouble ahead’. Greetings from NZ.
Vince Wright
william,
Thank you for your thoughts!
I thought that the “altar of my life” was our past self that was sacrificed to follow Jesus; However, I could have explained that better.
-Vince Wright
Jeff Crabtree
I have always interpreted the line ‘altar of my life’ to be in line with Romans 12 “I appeal to you therefore, brothers by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
The concept is that we are a living sacrifice to God thus framing the line ‘altar of my life.’
Justin
The ONLY critique I could offer is in the first verse, one could interpret Carnes/Asbury’s lyrics to speak of Luke 19, in Jesus’ triumphal entry when he noted that if the disciples were to stop praising him, the “rocks would cry out.”
I could see how, in that context, their lyrics are saying “look, if the ‘creation order’ around us COULD, it WOULD sing ‘Christ be magnified.'”
But I may be way off base here.
Vince Wright
Justin,
Thank you for your comment!
Perhaps that is what Carnes attempted to communicate. However, I have to go with the lyrics as they are stated, not Carnes’ intentions.
I tend to think logically, in part, due to my background in web development. “If creation were articulate, then we’d hear ‘Christ be magnified'”. That’s how I interpret this first Verse.
-Vince Wright
Nick
I am on the same page as Justin here. The way it’s stated in the song is that if creation were able to speak audibly that is what they would be singing. As far as verse 3 are we not created to be in relationship with God? So that would be our native cry once we are saved. That has been my thoughts and how those lines are understood.
Abram
Another in agreement here. As a listener without any additional context, my immediate interpretation was that if the rocks and seas and skies could speak this is what we’d hear. I appreciate all you do on this site, as I’ve been much more intentional about making sure what I’m leading in worship is Biblically sound. I’ve listened to this one a few times as a candidate for a song to introduce, and the only line that I struggle with a little bit is about the native cry. That phrase will vary based on what our definition of “native” in this context is, but overall feels like a great way to song to lift His name.
william byfleet
Personally I am a total hypocryte bcause I sing this but what I think is that 1. Money is being paid to Hillsong who’s head pastor says Allah and Jesus are the same God. 2. They support the passion bible which apparently was revealed to the sole author/translator personally by Jesius on a trip to the library in Heaven (its on youtube). 3. I asked people in our church what may Christ be magnified on the altar of my life mean’t and no one knew.
Why do it? Thats all I say ..is it to get bums on seats and be popular ? Of course there are references in the bible to rocks/trees etc. singing BUT they do not have a spirit… that though is what new age teaching says so mentally people make the connection (wrongly of course) its the world entering the Church … a rewriting of the word (the passion) /woolly songs and name it and claim it teaching. Most people are surprised to know new age embraces Jesus as ‘a’ God but not ‘the’ savior God (just like Jehovas witnesses do) they also pray to the archangel Michael. But as I say I sing it and don’t lose sleep which is hugely pharasitical of me but now you know .
Vince Wright
Abram,
Thank you for your comments! I am glad that you liked my review and continue to use this website.
-Vince Wright
Susan Clement
I agree with Justin. And I would argue that the phrase, “were all creation articulate” just means “were all creation able to speak.” Your criticism of the first verse seems to be based primarily on the idea that “articulate” means “eloquent.” By definition, the word articulate refers to speaking coherently and fluently, but not necessarily eloquently. For example, I can articulate my needs in a foreign language (German) coherently, such that I can get basic stuff accomplished, but I am definitely not able to speak eloquently in German.
Vince Wright
Susan,
Thank you for your comments!
I was using both the “articulate” and “eloquent” interpretations in my analysis on section 2; However, it just occurred to me that this does not translate in section 1. I corrected this inconsistency.
Either definition we use is beside the point though. My chief complaint is that becoming more articulate does not translate to declaring “Christ be magnified”. This requires a work of the Holy Spirit, when one’s heart repents and trusts in Jesus. Once that occurs, then we can declare emphatically “Christ be magnified”.
-Vince Wright
B Champeon
Vince, won’t it be amazing when we can fully articulate praise to God as we were created to?
Based on your argument above, if creation was set free to articulate it wouldn’t praise Christ, but what does Romans 9:19-23 teach us?
19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
Notice the words “set free from its bondage”. Think of creation as a mute man having his tongue loosed so he can now “articulate”. Creation is longing for “the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” Praise God that hope is not in vain because of Jesus our Redeemer.
Vince Wright
B Champeon,
Thank you for your comments!
My argument was more directed towards unbelievers, that if they (who are part of creation) were to become more articulate, it would not cause them to respond with “Christ be magnified”. The believer perhaps could state it better, but the unbeliever would not, unless a different catalyst took place that would cause them to repent and trust in Jesus.
-Vince Wright
Kristy
Creation doesn’t just mean humans, it means all animals, everything on the earth, everything in the entire universe. So really why can’t this lyric just mean if the rocks, animals, sea, sun, moon etc could speak we would here them speak in worship to Christ? He is the creator of all things not just humans.
Vince Wright
Kristy,
Thank you for your comment!
Yes, creation includes these things, but it doesn’t address my critique regarding unbelievers.
-Vince Wright
Dave Whitcroft
Hi Vince, I quite like this opening lyrics in verses 1&2. I think it’s a reasonable poetic musing on the witness of the skies and creation from psalm 19.
Psalm 19[a]
For the director of music. A psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they reveal knowledge.
3 They have no speech, they use no words;
no sound is heard from them.
4 Yet their voice[b] goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
I also think that creation’s position in relation to the fall is different from that of humans. Nature is not fallen, but is ‘subject to frustration’ i.e. living with the consequences of our sin, but still crying out for Jesus to return and the church to be glorified in Him:
Romans 8
20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that[h] the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.
22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.
I think adding human’s ‘inmost cry’ to other creatures’ inmost cry in verse 3 is more debatable, but a reasonable inference.
Although we are dead in our transgressions, and only made alive in Christ (Ephesians), all human being are beneficiaries of God’s ‘Common grace’ or universal blessing even before becoming Christians through ‘Saving grace’ Matthew 5:45.
In reformed terms, it’s the debate between “total depravity’ meaning that the image of God has either been erased in every area and replaced by sin, or meaning that we retain the image of God but that it is marred or totally depraved/vandalised in every area. For me it’s the latter. We are primarily made in the image of God, that image is systematically defaced by our fallenness, but for those who are in Christ, we are redeemed and being sanctified.
I know that’s contendable, but in the context of the foul song I think it maybe works?
I can certainly sing that as a Christian or new creation in a worship service anyway!
hope that helps,
Dave
Dave
apologies that should read ‘the whole song’ its not foul, its beautiful! 🙂
Vince Wright
Dave,
Thank you for your comments!
Did you mean Verse 1 and 3? I didn’t have an issue with Verse 2.
For Verse 1, You’re saying that the rest of creation, the bits and pieces of creation that “have no speech, they use no words;
no sound is heard from them” if they could speak, then they would say “Christ be magnified” correct? If so, then I think you are correct. I was interpreting it as our articulation.
For Verse 3, I agree about the latter position. We’re created in God’s image, though every aspect of our lives has been tainted with sin. However, when I read/hear about the “native cry” of humans, I interpret that as our post-fall natural inclinations which are geared towards rebellion and lawbreaking. If left to our own devices, none of us would find Jesus, much less sing “Christ be magnified”. If the artist meant our “native cry” pre-fall, then this intent isn’t clear to me. Even if I granted the “Common grace” that all of us enjoy, that doesn’t change that our “native cry” is sin, which requires action on God’s part to transform and change.
I updated my commentary on Verse 1.
-Vince Wright
Dave
Thanks for getting back so quickly Vince,
Yes I think Verse 3 is a great aspiration, but of course the sad truth is not ‘every human heart’ will respond & ‘find it’s native cry’ like the song seems to imply.
Unless, it’s just struck me, I wonder is it referring to Philippians 2 ‘Every knee should bow …..and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father’?
Vince Wright
Dave,
I see where you’re going with Romans 14:11, but I still hesitate to think that this is part of our native cry. It still seems…off.
-Vince Wright
Dave
Yes, ambiguous!
Ta sir 🙂
Brandon Jones
Personally, Justin’s take is the way I’ve understood the lyrics since the first time I heard them so Vince’s critique is confusing to me. If creation (rocks, mountains, etc) could suddenly speak then they would praise Jesus. And I took the native cry as harking back to the time of creation, our native cry being what we would have done in the garden before the fall. Having such a different understanding of what the lyrics mean makes this feel like a high school literature class where someone gets something out of a book and you’re just left wondering, “What? How? Why?” lol Not saying my take is right, just saying it makes the entire review confusing for me.
Pieter
After looking at the lyrics again, there are a lot of conditionals (if’s). Creation already declares the Glory of God (e.g. Psalm 19). so I agree – no need for a speaking ability.
somechristianteenager
These are also my thoughts.
Quinn
I have to say, I have loved your reviews and breakdowns but after reading this one I don’t know if I can trust them anymore. Perhaps the word ‘native’ wasn’t a good choice because the definition alludes to attributes given at birth, but as the rest of the song is about creation worshiping, the use of this lyric is demonstrating that (jike the rest of creation) we were created and created to worship him.
In the “live from passion” recording, (which I believe is the first time this was lead in public, at least on a massive scale) after singing that line he specifically says “This is what we were made to do” before the chorus which worship him.
This is one of the only worship songs in circulation today that has nothing to do with us or how God makes us feel but gives glory straight to Christ and I genuinely cannot believe you would dare to go as far as saying that you would not recommend it for corporate worship.
What a better thing to sing than Christ be magnified?
I strongly suggest that if you are going to create a platform to influence the Lord’s church and worship you use better logic and research going forward. Looking deep into things is necessary but understanding how such things are presented and portrayed at face value is important as well.
If the way you present a vessel of worship which magnifies Christ through all things creates “ false conversion amongst unbelievers” you’re doing the body of Christ a disservice in your leadership.
Vince Wright
Quinn,
Thank you for your comments!
First, yes I agree that we were made and created to worship Him. This much is clear from the words of Isaiah (e.g.; Isaiah 43:7 and Isaiah 43:21). However, when I read “native cry”, I don’t get the sense that it means “This is what we were made to do”. It sounds more like the core of who we are, which is rebellion.
Second, I updated my review recently based on Dave Whitcroft’s comments. I updated the language to reflect obedience to our “native cry” as the only statement that could potentially lead to false conversion; however, your point is well taken. I didn’t make this clear in section 3 in the first go-around, that it was only two statements (now one) that didn’t magnify Christ. I should have separated statements that magnify Him from those that don’t.
Third, you’re right. I could recommend this song for corporate worship, but only if Verse 3 is changed. Unfortunately, I can’t think of a suitable alternative.
-Vince Wright