Bowing at the Cross – Part Two

In a previous article, I challenged the theology of a particular song: At the Cross. My primary concern was with the notion of our bowing at the Cross, as if that was the end of God’s necessary work in a Christian’s life. If you have not read it, please do so now. It is more important than what follows.

The songs we sing say a lot about the way we live out our faith; and they can outright affect the way we live. Words – just by themselves – are powerful instruments of influence. Supported by music, presented by leaders, and sung by seekers of the truth, they have great power to impact our hearts and souls. And they can be wrong – very wrong!

I fear that the desire to attract and entertain creates an opportunity for compromise. The fact that something sounds good, and may move hearts to worship, does not give license to error in our theology. As another example, consider this lyric from How Deep the Father’s Love for Us:

“His dying breathe has brought me life.”

As pointed out in the previous article, we are not saved by His death, but by His life. Romans 5:8-10 makes this abundantly clear.

Regrettably, it gets worse.

Bowing at the Cross?

I heard a song the other day that has me wondering. It is a very moving song, with powerful and encouraging lyrics. The title of the song is At the Cross. I am sure you have heard it; even sung along with it. It has been performed by a number of recognized Christian artists – most recently by Chris Tomlin. One Hillsong version has over 28 million views on YouTube.

At the Cross is filled with truth about the love and work of God in the death of His Son. I would venture to say it speaks deeply to a lot of people; saved and not. Furthermore, the lyrics speak out of a theology (intended or not). They are more than just words. And so, I wonder.

The chorus of At the Cross includes a repeated line, “At the cross I bow my knee, where Your blood was shed for me.” Those are the lyrics – and the theology – that have me wondering:

1. Why would we bow at the cross when Jesus is no longer there?
2. Is the Jesus that hung on the cross the Jesus I should be bowing to?
3. How many are worshipping a dead Christ; trying to be saved by His death, rather than by His life?

I recognize that some may genuinely feel that I am making too much of this; or, I am missing something. For either case, please help me understand; for I have a hard time worshipping when the lyrics are wrong to me.