Amen (Because He Lives) (2-minute Hymnology)

Amen (Because He Lives) is an interesting mix - part new song, part old hymn. The word “Amen” basically means, “I agree” but with more emphasis, like “WORD”. So this song declares a number of truths about our story of redemption through Christ, and to it all we say, “Word” “Amen”. And it reminds us that our hope ultimately rests in the resurrection of Christ.

In Hebrews 7, the author goes into great detail describing Christ as the ultimate priest, the “forever priest” that Israel was waiting for. Other priests were only temporary (Hebrews 7:24-25) but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

And so we sing, “Because he lives, I can face tomorrow. Because he lives, every fear is gone.” Christ is our “forever priest”, but the sacrifice he makes is his own life. Since Christ is blameless, the father credits that payment to us, so that we can stand before him. Because he died, our sins are forgiven, but because he lives, we are assured that we can bring our requests before God, because Christ, the living Christ, the perfect Christ, intercedes for us.

This song is, of course, a great choice for an Easter service. But I like to use this song throughout the year. Musically, it’s a little different than most contemporary worship music, so it can be a nice breath of fresh air in a worship set, without rocking the boat too much.