This Means War!

Petra's song 'This Means War!' delves into the cosmic battle between good and evil, drawing heavily from Christian theology. The lyrics begin by addressing 'Son of the morning,' a reference to Lucifer, who was once the highest of angels before his fall from grace. The song recounts Lucifer's rebellion against God, highlighting his ambition and the subsequent consequences. The imagery of a celestial battle sets the stage for the ongoing conflict between the forces of good and evil, a theme prevalent in Christian teachings.

The chorus, 'This means war and the battle's still raging,' emphasizes the ongoing nature of this spiritual warfare. Despite the certainty of the ultimate victory for good, as assured by Christian doctrine, the song acknowledges the continuous struggle that believers must endure until the final judgment. This duality of assured victory and present struggle is a central theme, reflecting the Christian belief in the already-but-not-yet nature of God's kingdom.

The second verse shifts focus to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The lyrics describe how Satan believed he had triumphed with the death of Jesus, only to be thwarted by the resurrection. This event is portrayed as a pivotal moment in the spiritual battle, marking the beginning of the end for evil. The song concludes with a warning to Satan, acknowledging his continued efforts to fight against God's image on earth, but ultimately affirming his inevitable defeat.

'Petra,' known for their Christian rock music, uses powerful metaphors and vivid imagery to convey a message of hope and perseverance. The song serves as both a reminder of the spiritual battle that believers face and an encouragement to remain steadfast in their faith, assured of the ultimate victory through Christ.