Few artists have impacted the world of contemporary Christian music as profoundly as Chris Tomlin. Known for his heartfelt lyrics, soul-stirring melodies, and anthems of worship that unite believers around the globe, Tomlin has become a cornerstone of modern praise music. From intimate moments of prayer to stadium-sized declarations of faith, his songs have transcended time and language, finding a home in church services, personal playlists, and even award-winning albums.
In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 most popular Chris Tomlin songs of all time. These are the tracks that have not only topped charts but also touched millions of hearts, becoming timeless expressions of worship and devotion. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, this list is a celebration of the songs that continue to inspire hope, faith, and connection with God.
Get ready to revisit some of the most iconic worship songs ever written. From the uplifting chorus of “How Great Is Our God” to the powerful reverence of “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone),” this journey through Chris Tomlin’s greatest hits is sure to leave you singing along and filled with joy!
1. How Great Is Our God (2004)
Few worship songs have impacted the modern church like “How Great Is Our God.” Since its release in 2004, it has become a staple in services around the world, sung by millions across languages and cultures. It’s the kind of song that feels just as at home in a stadium of thousands as it does in a quiet room with one person singing alone. The lyrics are simple but profound, drawing our hearts to reflect on the majesty of a God who is above time, space, and understanding.
Lines like “He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide” are not just poetic—they’re powerful, offering a glimpse into God’s glory and strength. The chorus—“Sing with me, how great is our God”—feels more like a global invitation than just a line in a song. It unites people across denominations and generations under one truth: that our God is, simply, great. The swelling melody and grand orchestration give the song a sense of reverence and awe that continues to resonate with worshippers, making it a timeless expression of faith and wonder.
2. Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) (2006)
Chris Tomlin’s 2006 version of “Amazing Grace” breathed new life into one of the most beloved hymns in history. While the original hymn has long been a comfort to many, Tomlin’s version adds a deeply personal refrain that makes the message of redemption feel even more immediate: “My chains are gone, I’ve been set free.” This one line captures the heart of the Gospel in just a few words—freedom, release, and grace.
The arrangement is soft and simple, letting the lyrics shine without overcomplicating the music. Acoustic guitar, strings, and gentle piano give it an intimate feel, as though it’s being sung directly to each listener. What makes this version so powerful is how it bridges the traditional with the contemporary. It honors the history of the original hymn while adding something new and fresh for modern worshippers to connect with.
Whether you’ve sung it a hundred times or are hearing it for the first time, “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” has a way of cutting straight to the heart. It reminds us that grace isn’t just a theological concept—it’s a living, breathing freedom that transforms lives.
3. Our God (2010)
Released in 2010, “Our God” is a worship anthem built on bold declarations of who God is—and what He’s capable of. From the very first line, “Water You turned into wine,” the song immediately centers on the miraculous nature of God. But it doesn’t just stop at retelling biblical miracles. It connects those moments to our lives today, proclaiming that the same powerful God is still moving, healing, and transforming.
The chorus—“Our God is greater, our God is stronger”—is the kind of line that sticks with you long after the music fades. It’s a statement of faith, especially in seasons of doubt or struggle. The driving beat and soaring melody give it an energizing quality, turning it into a rallying cry of sorts for congregations everywhere.
What makes “Our God” so memorable is how it fuses passion and theology. It doesn’t just inspire emotionally—it grounds us in truth. It reminds us that no matter what we’re facing, there’s no one higher, stronger, or more powerful than God. And singing that together as a community? It changes the atmosphere.
4. Indescribable (2004)
“Indescribable,” released in 2004, invites us to step outside our day-to-day lives and into the vastness of God’s creation. From the very first line—“From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea”—you can almost picture the sweeping skies and crashing waves. The song paints a vivid image of God as Creator, whose handiwork is visible in every detail of nature.
But what sets this song apart is that it doesn’t just celebrate what God has made—it celebrates how intimately He knows us. “You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same.” That line, tucked into the chorus, is what makes the song go beyond awe and into intimacy. It’s not just that God is big and powerful—it’s that He is close, and He cares.
Musically, the melody rises and falls like a breath, giving the listener time to reflect and respond. It’s the kind of worship song that feels just as meaningful whether you’re singing it with a full band or quietly humming it on a morning walk. “Indescribable” reminds us that some aspects of God’s nature can’t be explained—they can only be experienced.
5. Good Good Father (2015)
“Good Good Father,” released in 2015, speaks to one of the most fundamental truths in our faith—that God is a loving, present, and trustworthy Father. In a world full of broken relationships and shifting definitions of love, this song brings clarity and comfort with just a few simple lines: “You’re a good, good Father. It’s who You are.”
The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t try to be clever or overly poetic. Instead, it speaks directly to the heart, using language that feels deeply personal and familiar. The repetition isn’t redundant—it’s meditative. It gives space for the truth to really settle in, for the listener to believe, perhaps for the first time, that God’s love is real, gentle, and unwavering.
The melody is soft and easy to sing, which has helped it become a favorite in both small groups and large worship gatherings. It creates a space where people can rest in God’s presence, without striving or performance. “Good Good Father” doesn’t just describe God—it draws us into a relationship with Him, reminding us that we are seen, known, and deeply loved.
6. Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (2012)
“Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies),” released in 2012, is a bold proclamation of God’s presence and protection in our lives. From the opening lines, there’s a deep sense of confidence woven into the lyrics: “You hear me when I call, You are my morning song.” It’s not just a song—it’s a reminder that God is near, involved, and fighting on our behalf. In a world that often feels chaotic or overwhelming, this anthem gives voice to the courage found in trusting a powerful God.
The chorus is especially powerful: “I know who goes before me, I know who stands behind. The God of angel armies is always by my side.” It’s the kind of truth that settles deep in your soul. Whether sung in the middle of a storm or in a moment of praise, this song meets people where they are and reminds them that they are not alone.
The music builds steadily, matching the growing sense of assurance in the lyrics. It’s both a declaration and a prayer—a spiritual battle cry that strengthens faith and lifts hearts. Few songs so clearly capture the strength and peace that come from knowing God is with us.
7. Holy Is the Lord (2004)
“Holy Is the Lord,” from 2004, is one of those worship songs that feels instantly familiar, like something you’ve always known. It opens with a quiet reverence and quickly builds into a joyous anthem, celebrating the holiness of God and His presence among us. “We stand and lift up our hands, for the joy of the Lord is our strength,” the song begins, and from that moment, you’re drawn into a posture of worship and awe.
There’s something about the chorus—“Holy is the Lord God Almighty, the earth is filled with His glory”—that brings a sense of unity and purpose to every room it’s sung in. It’s the kind of line that resonates deep within the soul and stirs something eternal.
Musically, the song balances gentle verses with a powerful chorus, creating a dynamic flow that mirrors the movement of worship itself—from quiet surrender to unrestrained praise. Whether you’re singing it in a sanctuary or humming it while driving, “Holy Is the Lord” invites you to join in a global chorus of praise. It’s more than just a worship song—it’s a declaration that God’s presence fills the world, and we are invited to respond with joy.
8. I Will Follow (2010)
Released in 2010, “I Will Follow” is a personal declaration of trust and obedience—a musical vow to walk wherever God leads. The song begins with honest, simple lyrics: “Where You go, I’ll go; where You stay, I’ll stay.” It’s not flashy or overly produced—it’s grounded, steady, and sincere. That’s what makes it so powerful. It captures the heart of discipleship in a way that’s relatable and real.
As the song progresses, it emphasizes surrender not only in big life decisions but in everyday faithfulness. It’s about choosing to follow God even when the path isn’t clear, when answers don’t come quickly, and when comfort is sacrificed for calling. That’s a hard place to be—but this song becomes a companion in that journey, offering both encouragement and challenge.
The upbeat tempo and anthemic chorus give the song a sense of momentum, like it’s pushing you forward even if you’re unsure of where you’re headed. It’s the kind of song that sticks with you long after the final note. “I Will Follow” doesn’t just ask us to sing—it invites us to live with open hands and willing hearts.
9. Jesus Messiah (2008)
“Jesus Messiah,” released in 2008, is a deeply reverent worship song that focuses on the core of Christian belief—the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ. From the opening line, “He became sin, who knew no sin,” the song takes us on a journey through the Gospel. It reflects not just on what Jesus did, but on who He is: Redeemer, Lord of all, the hope of nations.
The strength of this song lies in its simplicity and clarity. There’s no fluff or filler—just pure worship and theological truth. It doesn’t try to be clever; it just tells the story of grace in a way that’s accessible and moving. The music builds gently, layering vocals and instruments in a way that supports the emotion of the lyrics without overwhelming them.
By the time you reach the final chorus, you feel like you’ve been led into a sacred space—a place to rest, reflect, and respond to the love of Christ. “Jesus Messiah” is more than just a song; it’s a prayer, a confession, and a reminder of the hope we have because of the cross. It’s the kind of worship song that stays with you, echoing long after the music ends.
10. At the Cross (Love Ran Red) (2014)
“At the Cross (Love Ran Red),” released in 2014, is a poignant reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus and the overwhelming love He displayed through the cross. The lyrics are deeply emotional and rich with imagery, beginning with the line, “There’s a place where mercy reigns and never dies.” From the very first moment, the song sets a tone of humility, gratitude, and surrender.
The chorus—“At the cross, at the cross, I surrender my life”—captures the heart of Christian faith in a single phrase. It’s about laying everything down, giving up control, and acknowledging the depth of God’s love. “Where Your love ran red and my sin washed white” is not just poetic—it’s the Gospel in a lyric.
The melody is tender and haunting, growing in intensity as the song progresses, echoing the emotional weight of the lyrics. It’s the kind of song that’s often used during communion or Good Friday services, where reflection and reverence are central.
But more than that, “At the Cross (Love Ran Red)” is a reminder that worship is rooted in the cross—that everything we are and everything we have is because of what Jesus did. It’s a song that moves you—not just emotionally, but spiritually.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
