The Meaning Behind The Song: All Sufficient Merit (Live) by Shane & Shane
The Meaning Behind The Song: “All Sufficient Merit (Live)” by Shane & Shane
As a fan of Shane & Shane and a lover of worship music, “All Sufficient Merit (Live)” has become one of my favorite songs from their album “Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs.” This powerful and soul-stirring song encapsulates the profound truth of our salvation through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “All Sufficient Merit (Live)” beautifully depict the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the immeasurable grace we receive as a result. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning behind each verse and chorus:
[Verse 1]
“All sufficient merit shining like the sun
A fortune I inherit by no work I have done
My righteousness I forfeit at my Savior’s cross
Where all sufficient merit did what I could not”
In these lines, Shane & Shane eloquently express the concept of divine grace. Our salvation is not earned through our own efforts or righteousness but is solely based on the merit of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross covers our sins and bestows upon us an inheritance that we could never deserve or earn.
[Verse 2]
“In love He condescended eternal now in time
A life without a blemish the Maker made to die
The law could never save us our lawlessness had won
Until the pure and spotless Lamb had finally come”
This verse highlights the profound act of love and humility demonstrated by Jesus as He left His eternal glory to enter our finite world. He lived a sinless life, fulfilling the requirements of the law that we could never achieve on our own. By doing so, Jesus conquered our sin nature and made a way for our salvation.
[Chorus]
“It is done, it is finished
No more debt I owe
Paid in full all sufficient
Merit now my own”
The chorus of the song beautifully proclaims the finished work of Christ on the cross. Through His sacrifice, our debt of sin has been paid in full. We now possess the merit of Jesus, which covers us and qualifies us to stand before God blameless.
[Verse 3]
“I lay down my garments any empty boast
Good works now all corrupted by the sinful host
Dressed in my Lord Jesus a crimson Robe made white
No more fear of judgment His righteousness is mine”
These verses emphasize the futility of relying on our own good works or righteousness for salvation. Our attempts will always fall short due to our sinful nature. However, when we place our faith in Jesus, His righteousness covers us like a robe, removing all fear of judgment and making us righteous in the sight of God.
[Verse 4]
“All sufficient merit firm in life and death
The joy of my salvation shall be my final breath
When I stand accepted before the throne of God
I’ll gaze upon my Jesus and thank Him for the cross”
In this final verse, Shane & Shane express the eternal nature of the merit we have received through Jesus Christ. His sacrifice secures our salvation both in this life and in eternity. We can truly find joy in knowing that our salvation is secure and that one day, we will stand before God, forever grateful for the cross and the work Jesus accomplished on our behalf.
Personal Connection
This song holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of the overwhelming love and grace of God in my life. Whenever I listen to “All Sufficient Merit (Live),” I am filled with gratitude and awe at the depth of God’s sacrifice for me. It serves as a powerful reminder that my worth and righteousness come solely from Jesus’ merit, not my own actions or achievements.
Whether I am listening to this song while working, playing a game, or even watching a football match, it never fails to stir my heart and refocus my thoughts on the incredible gift of salvation that Jesus offers. It serves as a reminder of the great lengths He went to secure my freedom and forgiveness.
So if you are seeking a song that beautifully captures the essence of God’s grace and the all-sufficiency of Jesus’ merit, I highly recommend giving “All Sufficient Merit (Live)” by Shane & Shane a listen. It is sure to touch your heart and deepen your appreciation for the finished work of Christ on the cross.
