Christian Music That Doesn’t Suck: In honor of Martin Luther King day, The Journey Collective, the worship band from the The Journey church in St. Louis, has released a new and timely song, “Nothing But The Blood.” But, take note, this isn’t your grandma’s “Nothing But The Blood”, take a look at their description of the song:
With the Journey Collective’s latest release, writers Russ Mohr and Aaron Smith attempt to reimagine what the classic Robert Lowry hymn, Nothing But the Blood of Jesus might have sounded like as a Civil Rights anthem. Applying themes of racial reconciliation, justice and unity, it’s timely message is simple: at the heart of racial reconciliation is the message of the Gospel. This simple yet powerful arrangement brings new life to an old church favorite and calls us to action, all the while reminding us that true reconciliation can only happen when the power of Christ is at work in our hearts and communities.
Why It Doesn’t Suck: The Journey church has been one of the most prominent voices in rousing the slumbering white evangelical church to awaken to the racial injustices and discord in our nation. Pastor Darrin Patrick has led his church to be an agent of healing, hope and renewal in light of the atrocities that have ensued in their neighboring city, Ferguson.
This song shows that racial reconciliation is just as essential to the Gospel as justification. In talking of the ethnic and racial divide between Jews and Gentiles, Paul explains that “Now in Christ Jesus you who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” (Eph. 2:13). In the book of Revelation, when John sees what the New Heaven and Earth will look like, he sees the multitudes of forgiven saints, exulting in Christ, “For you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.” (Rev. 5:9). Racial reconciliation isn’t peripheral; it is a Gospel issue. Christ’s blood has purchased brothers and sisters, from every race, every nation, every people group. Let’s rejoice in our diversity, and celebrate our unity in Christ.
Marc Sims 