Christ Be Magnified by Cody Carnes is a beautiful reflection on the vastness of God’s glory and a personal commitment to praise him. The opening lines imagine a world where all creation could sing God’s praises in one voice. This paints a powerful picture of the universal importance of worship.
The song then shifts to a more personal declaration. Carnes sings about worshipping God not just with words, but with his entire life, like an “altar” set apart for that purpose. He finds God worthy of praise even when life is difficult, trusting that God is always present and that suffering can lead to transformation.
The final part of the song speaks to a future hope. Carnes expresses his belief that death is not the end, but a doorway to new life. He commits to following God no matter what, with the joyful expectation of one day joining a grand chorus of praise alongside all believers.
Video: Christ Be Magnified by Cody Carnes
Christ Be Magnified Lyrics by Cody Carnes
Were creation suddenly articulate
With a thousand tongues to lift one cry
Then from north to south and east to west
We’d hear Christ be magnified
Were the whole earth echoing His eminence
His name would burst from sea and sky
From rivers to the mountain tops
We’d hear Christ be magnified
O Christ be magnified
Let His praise arise
Christ be magnified in me
O Christ be magnified
From the altar of my life
Christ be magnified in me
When every creature finds its inmost melody
And every human heart its native cry
O then in one enraptured hymn of praise
We’ll sing Christ be magnified
(O be lifted high, Jesus)
I won’t bow to idols
I’ll stand strong and worship You
If it puts me in the fire
I’ll rejoice ‘cause You’re there too
I won’t be formed by feelings
I hold fast to what is true
If the cross brings transformation
Then I’ll be crucified with You
Death is just the doorway
Into resurrection life
If I join You in Your sufferings
Then I’ll join You when You rise
And when You return in glory
With all the angels and the saints
My heart will still be singing
And my song will be the same
