What a Beautiful Name: A Scriptural Reflection
Worship songs hold a unique place in our lives—they are both an offering to God and a reflection of how we understand His nature. What A Beautiful Name by Brooke Ligertwood and Hillsong Worship has become a cherished anthem, exalting the beauty, wonder, and power of the name of Jesus. As we examine its lyrics, we’ll reflect on how they align with Scripture and how they resonate with the exchanged life, a perspective that centers on Christ as our life and sufficiency.
Why Analyze Worship Songs?
As with the previous post in this series, you might wonder why we’re taking time to analyze modern worship songs. Let me share the heart behind it.
Worship is a deeply impactful act of connection with God, and the songs we sing shape not only our theology but also our understanding of who He is and how we relate to Him. This exercise isn’t about criticism for the sake of nitpicking or judgment. Rather, it’s an opportunity to examine these songs under the light of Scripture and the truths of the exchanged life. By doing so, we can deepen our appreciation for their theological richness, correct any potential misunderstandings, and grow in our understanding of God’s magnificence.
When we pause to reflect on what we’re singing, it transforms a song from a beautiful melody into a profound moment of worship that aligns our hearts with the truth of God’s Word. Just as Tozer called us to a higher view of God, this series encourages us to think deeply about how we proclaim His glory and goodness in worship.
For What A Beautiful Name, this analysis began with a curiosity to see how its lyrical truths align with Scripture and how they speak to the magnificence of Christ’s indwelling life. In the process, it became a way to celebrate the powerful truths this song proclaims while offering a chance to see God’s beauty in even greater depth.
"You Were the Word at the Beginning, One with God the Lord Most High"
The song opens with a foundational truth: Jesus is the eternal Word, existing from the beginning with God (John 1:1). This is a clear and biblically sound declaration of His deity and His preeminence. It highlights the mystery of the incarnation—how the hidden glory of God was revealed in Christ (Colossians 1:15-16).
"You Didn't Want Heaven Without Us, So Jesus, You Brought Heaven Down"
This line has sparked some discussion, as it implies God’s desire for fellowship with humanity was so great that Jesus brought “Heaven down.” While poetic, it’s vital to ensure our understanding is grounded in biblical truth. The incarnation was not about humanity completing God but about God glorifying Himself by redeeming a lost creation (Ephesians 1:5-6). Still, the sentiment here aligns with the exchanged life, where Christ dwells in us, bringing the reality of Heaven into our daily lives.
"Your Hidden Glory in Creation, Now Revealed in You, Our Christ"
This lyric echoes the profound truth of Christ as the Creator and the revealer of God’s glory. Colossians 1:16-17 teaches that all things were created through Him and for Him. His life, death, and resurrection unveiled the depths of God’s grace and truth, showing us the fullness of the Father (John 1:14).
"Death Could Not Hold You, the Veil Tore Before You"
These lines celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death, directly referencing Hebrews 2:14-15 and Matthew 27:51. The tearing of the veil signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, allowing us to enter His presence boldly (Hebrews 4:16). This truth resonates deeply with the exchanged life, reminding us that we are now temples of the Holy Spirit, indwelt by His life and power (1 Corinthians 6:19).
"Your Goodness Is Running After Me"
Though not explicitly from this song, the phrase echoes themes of God’s active pursuit of us. However, in light of Scripture, it’s vital to remember that God’s goodness and grace are not dependent on our actions; they are His nature (Exodus 34:6). His pursuit of us culminates in the cross, where Christ not only came to us but now lives in us.
Practical Reflection: Worshiping in Spirit and Truth
Imagine beginning your day overwhelmed by challenges, feeling inadequate for what lies ahead. Instead of striving in your own strength, you remember the truths expressed in this song: the power of Jesus' name, the victory He has won, and His indwelling life. You pause, pray, and allow His sufficiency to guide you through the day. This is worship in action—not just words sung on a Sunday, but a life lived in surrender and gratitude.
Conclusion: The Majesty of His Name
What A Beautiful Name is a powerful reminder of Christ’s supremacy and the wonder of His name. When sung with an understanding of its biblical truths, it becomes more than a song—it becomes an anthem of faith that exalts Jesus for who He is: our Creator, Redeemer, and Life.
As we examine worship songs like this one, we are reminded of the privilege of knowing and proclaiming such a Savior. Let’s sing with hearts full of gratitude, understanding the depth of what we declare: that His name truly is beautiful, wonderful, and powerful.