When it comes to contemporary Christian music, few artists have made as profound an impact as Chris Tomlin. With his soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Tomlin has become a voice for a generation seeking hope and inspiration. Over the years, he has created anthems that resonate with millions, filling churches and playlists alike. From worship gatherings to personal reflections, his songs have a unique ability to uplift spirits and draw listeners closer to their faith.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Chris Tomlin songs of all time. Each track is a testament to his artistry, blending powerful messages with unforgettable tunes. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, these songs represent the pinnacle of Tomlin’s influence in the Christian music landscape.
Join us as we explore the stories behind these beloved tracks, the themes that connect them, and the reasons they continue to inspire worshippers around the world. Get ready to experience the joy and reverence that Chris Tomlin’s music brings, and perhaps rediscover a few favorites along the way!
1. How Great Is Our God (2004)
“How Great Is Our God” is more than just a song—it’s a global anthem of worship. Released in 2004, this Chris Tomlin masterpiece has united churches, stadiums, and small groups in declaring the majesty of God. With its simple yet profound lyrics, the song invites all generations to lift their voices together, proclaiming the greatness of a God who reigns in power, clothed in splendor and light. The arrangement gradually builds from a quiet reverence to a soaring chorus, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and grand. It’s this balance—humble worship and cosmic awe—that gives the song its timeless quality. As the chorus rings out—”How great is our God, sing with me…”—people across cultures and languages find common ground in praise. It’s not just about admiring God’s greatness from afar; it’s about joining in, together, in awe and wonder. The song has become a defining track in contemporary Christian music, resonating in churches for decades and reminding worshippers that no matter their circumstances, they serve a God who is truly beyond compare. “How Great Is Our God” is both a celebration and a confession—powerful, enduring, and deeply moving.
2. Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) (2006)
“Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” is a modern reimagining of one of the most beloved hymns in Christian history. Chris Tomlin honors the timeless message of John Newton’s original 18th-century lyrics while adding a fresh and deeply personal dimension. Released in 2006, this version introduces a new chorus—“My chains are gone, I’ve been set free”—that powerfully emphasizes the freedom and transformation found in God’s grace. With soaring instrumentation and Tomlin’s heartfelt vocals, the song becomes a declaration of liberation from sin, guilt, and shame. The familiar verses ground the listener in tradition, while the new additions make the song feel immediate and relatable. It’s often chosen for worship settings, baptisms, and times of reflection because it touches the core of what it means to be redeemed. The beauty of this version lies in its ability to bridge generations, blending the old with the new without losing the depth of its message. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” resonates with every listener who has experienced—or longs to experience—the overwhelming, freeing love of God.
3. Our God (2008)
“Our God” is a bold and triumphant anthem that celebrates the unmatched power, love, and might of the God we worship. Released in 2008, Chris Tomlin crafted this song as a rallying cry for believers, reminding them that their God is greater, stronger, and higher than any force they might face. With its powerful chorus—“Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God You are higher than any other”—the song instantly captures attention and draws hearts upward in praise. The driving rhythm and confident tone make it a staple in churches, youth groups, and worship events. But it’s more than just a hype song—it’s a faith declaration, especially meaningful for those facing trials or standing on the edge of uncertainty. The lyrics speak directly to the sovereignty of God and the assurance that He is always with us and fighting for us. Tomlin’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s soaring instrumentation make it perfect for moments of bold worship. “Our God” has become one of the most influential worship songs of its generation, a modern classic that calls worshippers to stand firm and trust in the God who reigns over all.
4. Good Good Father (2014)
“Good Good Father” is a warm, tender ballad that captures the comforting truth of who God is—a loving, faithful, and ever-present Father. Co-written by Pat Barrett and Tony Brown but made widely known through Chris Tomlin’s 2014 version, the song quickly resonated with worshippers around the world. Its lyrics are deeply personal, echoing the longings of every heart to be known, loved, and accepted. “You’re a good, good Father / It’s who You are… / And I’m loved by You…” These simple lines carry profound theological weight while remaining incredibly relatable. The gentle melody and Tomlin’s honest vocals make the song feel like a prayer—raw, reassuring, and deeply reflective. It offers a quiet invitation to trust, to let go of fear, and to rest in the identity we have as God’s children. “Good Good Father” has found a home not only in churches but in countless personal moments of devotion, grief, and celebration. It’s a song that reminds us of God’s kindness and the beauty of a relationship built not on performance, but on love. In a noisy world, this song whispers truth to the soul: God is good, and He is for us.
5. Whom Shall I Fear? (God of Angel Armies) (2013)
“Whom Shall I Fear? (God of Angel Armies)” is a bold declaration of trust and courage rooted in Scripture and lived-out faith. Released in 2013, Chris Tomlin offers a worship anthem for those facing anxiety, fear, or overwhelming circumstances. From the very first lines, “You hear me when I call, You are my morning song,” the listener is drawn into a narrative of divine protection. The chorus reminds us that we are never alone because the “God of angel armies” is always by our side. It’s a powerful picture—God not only walks with us but leads heavenly hosts on our behalf. The driving beat and commanding lyrics stir the soul, building spiritual confidence with each verse. Whether sung in a full sanctuary or quietly in a car, the song becomes a spiritual weapon—reminding us that no force in this world can stand against the God who defends His people. Tomlin’s steady voice carries the conviction of the message, offering peace and assurance. “Whom Shall I Fear?” isn’t just another worship song; it’s a lifeline for anyone standing in faith when life gets hard.
6. I Will Rise (2008)
“I Will Rise” is one of those worship songs that feels like a quiet promise—one whispered in the dark and shouted in triumph. Released in 2008, Chris Tomlin wrote this song for moments when we face sorrow, loss, or uncertainty, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ. The lyrics speak about rising above the trials of life and even death itself: “I will rise when He calls my name / No more sorrow, no more pain.” It’s a powerful reminder that, in Christ, even our deepest valleys are not the end. The piano-driven melody begins gently, allowing space for reflection, and then swells into a confident chorus of faith and anticipation. It’s become a go-to song for memorial services and times of grief, but it’s just as meaningful in moments of celebration—because it’s all about victory through Jesus. Tomlin’s delivery is soft yet strong, capturing the delicate balance between sorrow and hope. “I Will Rise” gives words to emotions we often can’t express and anchors them in the gospel truth: because Jesus rose, so will we. It’s a song that speaks to eternity while comforting us in the now.
7. Jesus (2019)
With “Jesus,” Chris Tomlin centers everything around the name that carries power, peace, and salvation. Released in 2019, the song is a direct, no-frills anthem of praise. It’s not crowded with metaphors or elaborate poetry—just the beautiful, raw declaration that Jesus is everything we need. The chorus builds into a passionate call: “Jesus, Jesus / You make the darkness tremble.” There’s something deeply moving about how the song strips things down to the essentials—just the name of Jesus and all that it represents. The modern instrumentation, with its warm tones and resonant rhythms, makes it feel current, yet timeless. This song works equally well in a quiet worship moment or a loud, corporate gathering. Whether someone is feeling broken, afraid, or simply overwhelmed, “Jesus” gives them a name to cling to—a reminder that Christ is near, powerful, and kind. Tomlin’s heartfelt delivery makes it easy to feel connected, like you’re not just singing about Jesus but calling on Him personally. It’s a worship moment that feels more like a prayer than a performance.
8. Holy Is the Lord (2005)
“Holy Is the Lord” is a joyful, energetic declaration of God’s holiness that brings a sense of celebration into worship. Released in 2005, this song helped define a new era of contemporary praise music with its accessible melody and uplifting message. Right from the opening line—“We stand and lift up our hands”—there’s an invitation to physically and spiritually engage in worship. The lyrics aren’t complicated, but that’s part of their strength. They’re an expression of awe, reverence, and unity as people gather to declare that “holy is the Lord, God Almighty.” The rhythm is upbeat, the music is bright, and Chris Tomlin’s voice carries the perfect blend of excitement and sincerity. It’s the kind of song that fills a room with raised hands and joyful hearts, but it also works in quiet, personal worship, reminding you of God’s greatness in a simple way. “Holy Is the Lord” has become a foundational worship song over the years—not flashy, but deeply powerful in its sincerity. It reminds us that sometimes the most beautiful praise is found in simply standing in awe.
9. At the Cross (Love Ran Red) (2014)
“At the Cross (Love Ran Red)” is a deeply moving worship ballad that brings listeners face-to-face with the sacrifice of Jesus. Released in 2014, this song marks one of Chris Tomlin’s most emotional and contemplative offerings. The lyrics focus on the cross as the place where love and justice meet—where “mercy reigns and never dies.” The line “Where Your love ran red and my sin washed white” is especially poignant, painting a vivid picture of grace. With a soft, reflective piano introduction that builds into a powerful chorus, the song mirrors the emotional journey of coming to the cross—starting with humility and ending in joyful surrender. It’s often used during communion, Good Friday services, or moments of reflection, as it encourages worshippers to remember not only the pain of the crucifixion but the overwhelming love behind it. Tomlin’s gentle vocal delivery feels more like a prayer than a performance, helping worshippers connect personally with Christ’s sacrifice. “At the Cross” isn’t just about looking back—it’s about living in the reality of what Jesus did, and allowing that love to shape everything.
10. Indescribable (2004)
“Indescribable” is a celebration of God’s creativity, majesty, and mystery. Released in 2004, this Chris Tomlin hit takes the listener on a journey through creation, from the heights of mountains to the depths of the ocean, all pointing to the magnificence of the Creator. The song begins by acknowledging the awe we feel when we witness the wonders of nature, and then it moves deeper—into the character of God who not only made everything but knows every heart. “You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name…” It’s the kind of lyric that makes you stop and breathe for a moment. The melody is soaring and joyful, perfectly matching the theme of boundless wonder. What makes this song especially powerful is how it balances God’s vastness with His intimacy—He’s indescribable, yes, but also deeply personal. Tomlin’s vocals carry a tone of humble admiration, helping us feel both small in the best way and incredibly known. “Indescribable” reminds worshippers that the God who shaped galaxies also holds our hearts with the same intentionality. It’s a beautiful moment of worship and wonder.
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.
