When it comes to contemporary Christian music, few artists have made as significant an impact as Chris Tomlin. With a career spanning over two decades, Tomlin has crafted songs that resonate deeply with worshippers around the globe. His ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with uplifting melodies has earned him a special place in the hearts of millions, making his music a staple in churches and worship services everywhere.
From anthems of praise to intimate ballads, Tomlin’s songs capture the essence of faith, hope, and love. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, there’s a treasure trove of emotional and spiritual experiences waiting for you in his discography. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular Chris Tomlin songs of all time, each one a testament to his talent and devotion. Join us as we celebrate the tracks that have transformed lives, ignited worship, and united believers in powerful moments of connection with God. Get ready to rediscover the music that has inspired countless hearts and continues to lead worshippers in praise across the world!
1. How Great Is Our God (2004)
“How Great Is Our God” is easily one of Chris Tomlin’s most beloved worship anthems. Released in 2004, the song has become a modern classic in churches around the world. With simple but deeply reverent lyrics, it lifts up the majesty and greatness of God in a way that feels both grand and intimate. The song opens with a calm, reflective tone, drawing you into worship with lines like “The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty.” As it builds, so does its power—inviting everyone to join in declaring, “How great is our God!” This isn’t just a song; it’s a heartfelt praise that resonates across denominations and cultures. Its strength lies in its simplicity, making it easy to sing yet emotionally profound. Whether sung in a crowded church or during a quiet personal devotion, it stirs a sense of awe and reverence. Chris Tomlin’s gentle voice and the soaring arrangement create a space where worshipers can reflect on God’s eternal nature and limitless power. It’s more than a hit—it’s a worship experience that has stood the test of time.
2. Our God (2010)
“Our God” is an anthemic reminder of God’s power and faithfulness. Released in 2010 as part of the *Passion: Awakening* album, the song quickly became a staple in worship services worldwide. Co-written with Matt Redman, Jesse Reeves, and Jonas Myrin, the track opens with the bold proclamation: “Water You turned into wine, opened the eyes of the blind.” It builds into a chorus that confidently declares, “Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God You are higher than any other.” The lyrics focus on God’s unmatched strength and His ability to overcome any obstacle we face. What makes the song especially powerful is how it combines deep theological truths with a melody that’s easy to sing and hard to forget. Tomlin’s delivery brings urgency and reverence, helping worshipers move from simply singing to declaring victory over fear, doubt, and struggle. “Our God” isn’t just a song—it’s a spiritual declaration that stirs courage and confidence in God’s power. Whether you’re at a conference or worshiping alone, the song creates a sense of unity and trust in the God who fights for us.
3. Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) (2006)
Chris Tomlin’s “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” is a modern reimagining of the timeless hymn. Released in 2006 on the *See the Morning* album, this version retains the original verses by John Newton while adding a moving new chorus that brings the message of grace even closer to the heart. The added line, “My chains are gone, I’ve been set free,” resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the freedom that comes from salvation. Tomlin’s voice, gentle and earnest, delivers each word with sincerity. The instrumentation is lush but never overpowering—piano, strings, and soft percussion create a worshipful atmosphere. The result is a song that feels both reverent and personal. It’s often used during communion, baptisms, and altar calls because of its strong message of redemption and transformation. This version doesn’t just revive a hymn—it refreshes it for a new generation. It reminds us that God’s grace is not only amazing, but active and alive, breaking chains and leading us into new life. It’s a song of freedom, and one that continues to bring people to tears and to worship.
4. Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) (2012)
“Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)” is a bold declaration of trust in God’s protection and sovereignty. Released in 2012 on Tomlin’s *Burning Lights* album, the song encourages believers to face fear and opposition with confidence, knowing they’re backed by the “God of angel armies.” It opens with a gentle piano line and reflective lyrics, but quickly swells into a chorus filled with strength and assurance. The line, “I know who goes before me, I know who stands behind,” becomes an anchor of faith in times of uncertainty. Tomlin’s vocals are clear and resolute, delivering a message of courage without arrogance. The song beautifully blends personal devotion with biblical imagery, reminding listeners that the same God who commanded angel armies in Scripture is the same God who walks beside them today. Whether you’re going through a personal trial or simply need a reminder of God’s presence, this song offers both comfort and strength. It’s a spiritual battle cry for those who trust not in their own strength, but in the unstoppable power of God.
5. Indescribable (2004)
“Indescribable” is a song that stands in awe of God’s creative power and unfathomable greatness. Originally written by Laura Story and later made famous by Chris Tomlin in 2004, it paints a sweeping picture of God as the sovereign Creator who holds the universe together and yet still knows each of us intimately. The lyrics speak of the stars, lightning bolts, and the seasons—all pointing to a God who is beyond our understanding. Tomlin’s version brings the song to life with a rich blend of acoustic guitar, piano, and soft strings. His sincere vocal delivery draws listeners into a place of wonder and humility. What makes this song so powerful is its ability to make the vastness of God feel personal. While celebrating God’s grandeur, it also reminds us that He sees the depths of our hearts and loves us the same. It’s a reminder that worship isn’t only about personal emotion—it’s also about recognizing the majesty of the One we worship. “Indescribable” is a song for anyone who’s ever looked at the night sky and felt overwhelmed by both the greatness of God and His closeness.
6. I Will Rise (2008)
Released in 2008, “I Will Rise” is a moving and deeply personal song that speaks to the Christian hope in life beyond death. Chris Tomlin captures the beauty and solemnity of the resurrection promise with lyrics that feel both intimate and triumphant. The song begins quietly, almost like a prayer, and slowly builds into a declaration of eternal victory through Christ. It speaks to the grief and pain we experience in life, but also to the overwhelming peace that comes from knowing we’ll rise with Christ one day. With phrases like “Jesus has overcome, and the grave is overwhelmed,” the song offers powerful assurance in the face of loss or uncertainty. “I Will Rise” has become especially meaningful at funerals, Easter services, and moments of deep spiritual reflection. The orchestration, which swells in harmony with the lyrics, mirrors the emotional journey the song takes you on—from sorrow to celebration. It’s a reminder that death isn’t the end and that Christ’s resurrection is a promise of our own. Whether in corporate worship or private devotion, this anthem gently but boldly calls believers to place their hope in the victory of Jesus.
7. Forever (We Sing Hallelujah) (2013)
“Forever (We Sing Hallelujah),” released in 2013, is a glorious celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The song builds around the pivotal moment of our faith—when Christ defeated death—and it invites believers into a posture of grateful worship. From the opening lines to the final chorus, the lyrics are rich with imagery of triumph, sacrifice, and eternal life. The emotional swell of the music perfectly complements the message: the tomb is empty, love has won, and Jesus lives forever. As the chorus repeats “Forever He is glorified,” it becomes more than a lyric—it’s a proclamation of truth, an anthem of praise that spans heaven and earth. The song’s dynamics create a powerful experience in worship services, starting gently and rising into an explosion of joy and hallelujahs. “Forever” isn’t just a song—it’s a spiritual encounter that unites believers in awe of the resurrection. Whether sung during Easter or any Sunday service, it reminds us of the living hope we have in Jesus. It calls worshippers to remember that Christ’s victory wasn’t temporary—it was forever—and that reality continues to shape our lives today.
8. Jesus (2015)
Released in 2015, “Jesus” is a reverent and heartfelt anthem that centers entirely on the name above all names. Chris Tomlin crafts this song as a beautiful declaration of faith, placing the spotlight solely on the person of Jesus Christ. It’s a gentle reminder that no matter what we’re facing—fear, sorrow, or uncertainty—there’s power, hope, and peace in the name of Jesus. The song is simple in its structure, yet rich in its impact. Its melody is contemplative, drawing listeners into a quiet place of reflection and worship. Lyrically, it speaks of Jesus as our refuge, our healer, our Savior—the One who brings light into the darkness. This kind of personal and emotional connection resonates with worshippers, making it especially powerful in times of prayer and spiritual need. As the chorus repeats the name “Jesus,” it becomes more than a word—it becomes a cry of the heart. The song creates space for people to just sit in God’s presence and remember who He is. “Jesus” stands out as one of Tomlin’s most tender worship pieces, offering comfort, strength, and a renewed focus on the One who is the center of it all.
9. At the Cross (Love Ran Red) (2014)
“At the Cross (Love Ran Red),” released in 2014, is a stirring ballad that meditates on the overwhelming love of God demonstrated through Christ’s sacrifice. Chris Tomlin weaves together heartfelt lyrics with a solemn, moving melody that leads worshippers to the foot of the cross. The title alone conveys a powerful image: not just the cross, but the outpouring of divine love that flowed there. The song draws listeners into a personal and emotional reflection of what it means that Jesus died for them. Lines like “Where mercy reigns and never dies” and “Your love ran red, and my sin washed white” paint a vivid picture of grace and redemption. It’s more than a song—it’s a prayer of gratitude and surrender. Whether used during communion, Good Friday services, or moments of repentance, “At the Cross” has the power to bring people to tears and into deeper connection with God. The balance between gentle verses and the swelling chorus allows worshippers to both reflect and rejoice. It reminds us that the cross is not just a symbol of suffering—it’s the place where love conquered sin, and hope was reborn.
10. Indescribable (2004)
“Indescribable,” released in 2004, remains one of Chris Tomlin’s most iconic and awe-inspiring worship songs. Co-written with Laura Story, the song is a poetic celebration of God’s creation and character. It opens with sweeping declarations about the vastness of the universe—stars flung into space, galaxies beyond measure—yet quickly pivots to highlight God’s intimate care for each individual. The beauty of “Indescribable” lies in how it holds these truths together: the God who paints the skies with thunder is also the One who knows our hearts. The melody is uplifting, with crescendos that mirror the song’s theme of majesty and wonder. Tomlin’s delivery feels both humble and amazed, perfectly matching the awe conveyed in the lyrics. It invites worshippers to marvel at who God is, not just intellectually but emotionally. “You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same” may be one of the most profound lines in modern worship—reminding us that the Creator of all things loves us personally and unconditionally. This song transcends time and setting, continuing to inspire worship around the world. It encourages us to stop, look up, and worship the One who is truly indescribable.
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.
