Matt Papa – Our Sovereign God
Feb 15, 2012 CD Reviews
Posted by
wiegmake
Matt Papa
This Changes Everything
Renown Records
Grade – A
This is the second project from Matt Papa that I have had the pleasure of reviewing. What I really like about his style of music is how energized it is. His songs charge me up both lyrically and musically. It’s worship music that demands to be played loudly and proudly, just the way we should be proclaiming the Gospel.
While the main draw for me is the edgy soundtrack, I can’t help but be challenged by the lyrics as well. If you’re uncomfortable exploring the depth of your spiritual life, then you’re probably going to be uneasy with Papa’s challenging lyrics.
His songs remind me of why I love the Lord, but they also remind me of how I can sometimes fall short of living it out. Not in a negative way necessarily, but in a more thoughtful approach.
For example, the song “This Changes Everything” is emotionally charged and it speaks of a wholly devoted heart for Christ. The song also challenges a current state of idleness in the body of Christ. This call to action and remembrance is carried on in “What Are We Waiting For” and “Have I Forgotten.”
Another song I want to share is called “Stay Away From Jesus.” It is clear in the Bible that there is a cost to following Jesus. I think Matt Papa addresses this idea in this song.
While the album does not close on this song, “The Lord Is A Warrior,” I do believe it sums up the heart of the album. God is a mighty warrior and the battle with Satan is already won. Even though we’re going to struggle with our own spiritual battles we have hope – we have Jesus – the redeemer and savior. The final battle is going to be grand and we can hold on to that truth.
Check out Matt Papa’s official website <http://mattpapa.com> for more information.
Below however, is a link directly to one of his more recent blog postings that gives you a good idea of where he is coming from.
http://mattpapa.com/2012/01/jesus-isnt-safe-an-appeal-to-christian-radio-and-its-listeners/
- Ken W.
