Rattle!: Understanding the Significance of Elevation Worship’s Powerful Anthem

Christian music has powerfully shaped the spiritual journey of many believers. Among the many worship songs that have gained tremendous popularity and cult-like following is Elevation Worship’s “Rattle!” The song is undeniably inspirational, and its message of renewal and resurrection resonates with Christians across the globe. However, understanding the song’s true meaning requires a deeper look into its lyrics, context, and biblical references.

The Context of “Rattle!”

Elevation Worship released “Rattle!” in 2019, as part of their album “Paradoxology.” As with many worship songs, “Rattle!” was inspired by the Bible, particularly the story of Lazarus as recorded in the Gospel books of John 11: 1-44. The song takes its title from the verse, “Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.” (John 11:44 NIV).” This verse is crucial to understanding the song’s message of hope, renewal, and life beyond death.

The Lyrics of “Rattle!”

The lyrics of “Rattle!” are both powerful and soul-stirring. The song begins by acknowledging the hopelessness and despair that often characterizes the human experience. Dean Mitchel, one of the song’s composers, says that “Rattle!” is a song for anyone facing a hopeless situation. The opening verse sets the scene, “Saturday was silent, surely it was through, but since when has impossible ever stopped You.”

Elevation Worship then unveils the main theme of the song, “This is the sound of dry bones rattling,” which is repeated throughout the chorus. The phrase “dry bones” is significant and taken directly from the biblical story of Lazarus. Ezekiel 37:1-14 also references these dry bones as symbolic of God’s promise of restoration to His people. The chorus declares the power of God to breathe life into dry bones and awaken the dead.

The song further emphasizes the importance of trusting God even in the most hopeless of situations. “Everything must change, everything must change, nothing stays the same,” the bridge declares. Even when everything seems lost, Christians are called to trust in God’s transformative power and believe that He can help them overcome their trials.

The Message of “Rattle!”

The message of “Rattle!” is one of hope and renewal. The song acknowledges the reality of human despair and hopelessness but reminds listeners that there is always hope in God. Christians can trust in the promise of resurrection and know that even after death, there is life beyond the grave.

Speaking about the message of the song, Chris Brown, the lead singer of Elevation Worship, says, “We hope this song becomes an anthem for anyone who needs to be reminded that we worship a God who breathed the breath of life into dust and with just a word, raised a man from the grave to make beauty out of our dry bones.”

The Impact of “Rattle!”

Since its release, “Rattle!” has had a tremendous impact on the world of worship music. Within a year, the song had amassed over ten million views on YouTube and has been performed in churches and conferences worldwide. Christians have universally embraced the song’s message of hope, and it has become a go-to anthem for anyone going through a difficult time.

Beyond its popularity, “Rattle!” has also been recognized for its exceptional songwriting and production quality. The song won the “Song of the Year Award” at the 33rd Annual GMA Dove Awards, a significant achievement for a worship song. The song’s appeal also transcends Christendom, having been featured on mainstream platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.

Conclusion

Elevation Worship’s “Rattle!” is more than just a worship song- it is a message of hope and renewal for anyone going through a challenging time. The power of the song lies in its biblical references and message of resurrection. Christians can take comfort in the knowledge that even when everything seems lost, they can trust in the transformative power of God.

The song also highlights the importance of quality songwriting and production in worship music. “Rattle!” has earned numerous accolades, including a GMA Dove Award, which speaks to its exceptional quality. The song’s popularity on mainstream platforms testifies to the universal appeal of its message.

Overall, “Rattle!” is a must-hear for anyone seeking inspiration and hope in their spiritual journey.