I’ve written before about a song by this same title. It was in a musical cantata I directed in the 90’s. The idea and concept of God’s plan of sending Jesus to die for the sins of mankind can be found in the lyrics of many songs. This is yet another version of this message. God’s message.

The love of the Father is voiced through the lyrics of “Once and For All.” We sing of the elements of Jesus’ sacrifice. Taking our sin upon Himself. Suffering on our behalf and then crescendos with the resurrection of Jesus.

But in the middle of this message, we are asked to state what we believe. So what do you believe? Do you believe what you sing? In this particular melody, you are stating that you believe Jesus is God and that He is the Savior of the world. I pray that you believe these words.

Sometimes we sing a song because we like the tune. Sometimes because of the rhythm. But above all, we should sing music that is glorifying to God and speaks truth to our lives. If the lyrics are not what we believe, we should not let the words pass through our lips.

I’ve know people who will not sing certain songs because it is contradicting to God’s message or it skews His message in some way. Are you willing to be one of those people?

I pray that as we sit in a worship service, listen to our car radio or hum catchy melodies that we also reflect upon the lyrics of the songs we allow to penetrate our hearts.

On the flip side, there are lyrics to some songs that are convicting and calls us to action. I also pray that you will be move by these lyrics as well. I pray that you will listen and obey.

So today I share version 2 of “Once and For All.” I am so thankful for this group of men who so willingly share their talents with the rest of us.

Once and for all
The Father’s love
He is the light in the darkness
Who took on flesh
And took our place
The weight of the world on His shoulders
The weight of the world on His shoulders
 

Chorus:
We believe our God is Jesus
We believe that He is Lord
We believe that He has saved us
From sin and death
Once and for all
 

Once and for all
Our debt is paid
There on the cross it is finished
The Lamb of God for us was slain
Up from the grave He is risen
Up from the grave He is risen

(Chorus)
 

Jesus, Jesus
God from God
Light from Light
You are our salvation
Jesus, Jesus
God from God
Light from Light
Your kingdom is forever[i]

Chris Tomlin sang this song for Passion. Click here to listen.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Once and For All,” Words and Music by Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, Matt Maher and Ed Cash, Worship Together Music, Six Step Songs, A Thousand Generations Publishing, Sony, ATV Music Publishing, Open Hand Music, Valley of Songs Music, Thank You Music, Alletrop Music, 2013.