Jesus Is Lord

Jesus Is Lord is a modern hymn written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend and first published in 2003. It stands firmly within the modern hymn movement that seeks to unite strong biblical theology with singable, congregationally focused music. The hymn is Christ centered from beginning to end, declaring the absolute lordship of Jesus Christ over creation, redemption, and eternity.

The theological heart of the hymn is rooted in Philippians 2:9-11, where God highly exalts Christ and gives Him a name above every name, so that every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. This confession is not merely personal or devotional but cosmic and universal. The hymn reflects this scope by proclaiming Christ’s authority over heaven and earth and His rightful reign as sovereign King.

Colossians 1:15-20 also shapes the hymn’s message by presenting Christ as Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. Jesus Is Lord emphasizes that Christ’s lordship is grounded both in who He is and in what He has done. His reign is not abstract power but redemptive authority established through the cross and resurrection. This balance guards against a shallow triumphalism and anchors the hymn firmly in the gospel.

The hymn also looks forward to the final fulfillment of Christ’s reign as described in Revelation 5:12-13. In that scene, all creation joins in worship, declaring the worthiness of the Lamb. Jesus Is Lord invites the church to participate now in that future reality by confessing Christ openly and joyfully in worship and in life.

As a congregational hymn, Jesus Is Lord functions as both a declaration of faith and a call to allegiance. It reminds believers that Christ’s lordship demands trust, obedience, and hope. In a world marked by competing authorities and shifting loyalties, the hymn boldly affirms the enduring biblical truth that Jesus Christ alone reigns supreme, to the glory of God the Father.