Christian Song Meanings: "The Real Jesus" by Downhere

Lee Andrew Henderson
Last year the Associated Content writers were asked to write top 10 lists about anything they wanted to write about. I decided to write about the top Christian albums of 2006. As I did my research I came across a song that has been my most played song ever since. The song is "The Real Jesus" by Downhere.

Like many of my favorite songs "The Real Jesus" is a song that challenges the listeners. The first verse of "The Real Jesus" talks about the modern impressions of Jesus. Everywhere we go we hear about Jesus but some of these places we hear about a Jesus that has different characteristics than the one we know. Everybody has their own idea of Jesus and a lot of them are wrong. Many of these images of Jesus are painting Jesus in the wrong light.

As the song says "Jesus on the radio, Jesus on a late night show, Jesus in a dream, looking all serene. Jesus on a steeple, Jesus in the Gallup poll, Jesus has his very own brand of rock and roll." We hear about Jesus in all forms of entertainment and all forms of media but the person telling about Jesus isn't always getting the facts straight. Sometimes even our own churches are guilty of teaching about the wrong Jesus.

The second verse of "The Real Jesus" goes on to tell us about what the real Jesus is like. Since the song says it a lot better than I can, here are the lyrics. "Jesus started something new. Jesus coined a phrase or two. Jesus split the line at the turning point of time. Jesus sparked a controversy. Jesus, known for His mercy, gave a man his sight. Jesus isn't white. Jesus loves the children, holds the lambs, Jesus prays a lot. Jesus has distinguishing marks on his hands."

The chorus of "The Real Jesus" goes on to say, "Can anybody show me the real Jesus? Oh, let your love unveil the glory of the real Jesus." Downhere is saying that they are tired of the world's view of Jesus. They are seeking the real Jesus and want to know the true Jesus. The one that died on the cross for our sins, not this made up Jesus that many people have thought up and made as convenient as possible to their liking. "The Real Jesus" is not only wonderfully sung but it's very clever and is a very serious song that challenges Christians today. The challenge is to forget about what the television, radio, or news says about Jesus. Seek the one true Jesus.

Published by Lee Andrew Henderson

I was born, I wrote, I died.  View profile

4 Comments

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  • Donna Porter3/29/2007

    You presented the song very well, I look forward to listening to it.

  • Renee Bodkin3/29/2007

    Interesting. I've never heard the song but am now insprired to find it! :)

  • ALBAN MEHLING3/29/2007

    If men would follow the real teachings of this Jewish Carpenter instead of the man made version the world would be a better place. Just the simple guidline of kindness, sincerity, and fergiveness would put most man induced philosphy outta business.

  • Susan Corbett3/28/2007

    I actually haven't heard this one. I'd like to find a copy now. Thanks for bringing it up. :)

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