Empires

Hillsong United's song 'Empires' delves into the profound themes of human frailty and divine redemption. The lyrics juxtapose the transient nature of human existence with the eternal grace offered by Jesus. The opening lines, 'We are worlds, we are bodies / Empires of dirt and grace,' highlight the duality of human nature—our physical, earthly existence ('dirt') and the divine grace that transforms us. The imagery of 'silhouettes and reflections' suggests that our true essence is found in the light of God's presence, as we are 'caught in His holy flame.'

The song speaks to the transformative power of faith, emphasizing that beneath our flawed exterior lies 'a new creation.' The breaking of chains and the end of the night symbolize liberation from sin and the dawn of a new spiritual era. The repeated declaration, 'The King is here / And His Name is Jesus,' serves as a powerful reminder of the central figure in Christian faith, whose arrival signifies the fulfillment of divine promises.

'Empires' also explores the concept of divine love, described as 'bending skies to heal the broken' and 'bleeding life into the grave.' These metaphors illustrate the sacrificial nature of Jesus' love, which transcends human understanding and brings new life. The chorus, with its call to 'sing hallelujah' and 'breathe in a brand new world,' invites listeners to embrace this transformative love and envision a renewed existence. The song concludes with a vision of heaven, urging believers to live in a way that reflects their divine calling, with 'all our crowns upon Your Name.'