The Theology of Worship Music – How He Loves by John Mark McMillan

The Theology of Worship Music – How He Loves

by John Mark McMillan

How He Loves, by John Mark McMillan, has been on the CCLI Top 25 for a long time. It is a song that gives voice to the heart-cry of many worshipping Believers. His creative imagery, while not expressly Biblical, allows us to see the effect of God’s working in our life. Phrases like “loves like a hurricane, I am a tree, bending beneath the weight of His glory” brings both a sight and sound experience.

Many have altered one phrase in the original lyric because they can’t seem to imagine God giving a “sloppy wet kiss.” This phrase has been changed to “unforeseen” by those that want a little more dignified view of God. Personally, I’m ok with either. God’s not afraid to get messy!

There are several references to scripture used in the song. The opening line is a statement made about our God taken from the dialog God had with Moses on the mountain while giving the Ten Commandments. God spoke, “The Lord, your God, is a jealous God.” (Exodus 20:5)

The phrase about being God’s portion is mostly Old Testament (Deuteronomy 32:9), but I think it is applicable to the Believer as well.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV) Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

The mention of Jesus being our “prize” is a little misstated. I know it fit the rhyme scheme, but we do not “win” Jesus. The prize mentioned in the New Testament is the reward we receive in Heaven based on our works here on earth. I know that is a little specific, but too many try to earn their way into Heaven, and it is just not possible. We receive Jesus through grace alone.

The chorus of this song cannot be sung enough. If we could ever get a revelation of just how much God loves us it would change us forever. So, sing this song often; “sloppy wet kiss” and all. We need to declare the love of the Father over ourselves, and others worshipping with us. “He loves us!”