“I Exalt Thee” is a beloved worship song popularized by Jesus Culture, originally written by Pete Sanchez in 1975. The song exalts the name of Jesus Christ and has become a staple in modern worship, reminding believers of God’s faithfulness and worthiness of praise.
There are certain worship songs that seem to carry a weight far beyond the melody — songs that, the moment the first note is struck, draw the heart into the presence of God. “I Exalt Thee” is one such song. Originally penned by Pastor Pete Sanchez in 1975 and later powerfully reimagined by Jesus Culture, this timeless hymn has become a cornerstone of modern worship, echoing the eternal truth that Jesus Christ alone is worthy of all praise. Whether you are a longtime believer seeking to deepen your devotion or someone curious about the heart behind this beloved song, this article will walk you through the story, lyrics, chords, and meaning behind Jesus Culture I Exalt Thee — and how it points us directly to the Lord.
At Just Jesus Time, our mission is to keep every word and every note centered on Jesus Christ — His divinity, His sacrificial death and resurrection, and the authority of Scripture. As we explore the origins of “I Exalt Thee,” the role of artists like Kim Walker-Smith, and the church community behind Jesus Culture, our focus will remain unwaveringly fixed on the One whom this song exalts: Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Let us discover together how this powerful worship anthem continues to lead hearts into genuine, Spirit-filled worship.
What Is the Story Behind “I Exalt Thee”?
The Origins of the Hymn
The beloved worship song “I Exalt Thee” has a rich and powerful history rooted in deep devotion to Jesus Christ. The original hymn was written by Pete Sanchez in 1975. Sanchez was a worship leader who felt a profound calling to create a song that magnified the name of Jesus. His simple yet deeply reverent lyrics have touched the hearts of believers for decades.
The hymn draws its inspiration directly from Scripture. The central theme echoes Psalm 145:1, which says, “I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.” Sanchez crafted a song that invites every believer to join in lifting high the name of Jesus. The lyrics are straightforward, making them accessible to congregations of all sizes and backgrounds.
Over the years, “I Exalt Thee” became a staple in churches across many denominations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of simple, Christ-centered worship. The song reminds us that exalting Jesus is not merely an act of singing — it is a lifestyle of surrender and praise.
How Jesus Culture Brought New Life to “I Exalt Thee”
In more recent years, the worship collective Jesus Culture breathed new life into this timeless hymn. Jesus Culture, known for their passionate and Spirit-led worship, recorded a version of “I Exalt Thee” that introduced the song to a whole new generation of believers. Their rendition carries the same reverence as the original while adding a fresh, contemporary sound.
Jesus Culture’s version features powerful vocals and an atmosphere of genuine worship. The arrangement builds from a place of quiet adoration to a triumphant declaration of God’s greatness. As a result, the song has resonated deeply with young believers and worship leaders around the world.
Their recording of “I Exalt Thee” can be found on various worship platforms and has been used in churches globally. This demonstrates how God can use both old and new expressions of worship to glorify His name. The song continues to point hearts toward Jesus, just as it did when Pete Sanchez first penned it.
At its core, “I Exalt Thee” is a declaration that Jesus Christ is Lord. Whether sung in a traditional hymn style or with a modern worship arrangement, the message remains the same: our God is worthy of all praise, honor, and exaltation. As Philippians 2:9-11 proclaims, “God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.”
Who Is the Female Lead Singer of Jesus Culture?
Kim Walker-Smith’s Role in Jesus Culture
When many Christians think of Jesus Culture, one voice often comes to mind: Kim Walker-Smith. She became one of the most recognizable female worship leaders in modern Christian music. Her passionate vocals and heartfelt devotion helped define the sound of Jesus Culture for over a decade.
Kim Walker-Smith joined Jesus Culture in the early 2000s. She quickly rose to prominence as a lead worship singer. Her voice carried many of the movement’s most beloved songs, including powerful renditions of “I Exalt Thee” and other worship anthems that stirred hearts across the globe.
Her Impact on Worship Music
Kim Walker-Smith’s influence extended far beyond the stage. She helped shape a generation of believers who longed to encounter God through worship. Her leadership style was marked by:
- Authentic devotion — She led worship not as a performance, but as an act of surrender to Jesus Christ.
- Vocal excellence — Her powerful, anointed voice brought a unique sound to Jesus Culture’s recordings and live events.
- Spiritual mentorship — She encouraged young worshippers to pursue intimacy with God above all else.
- Scriptural grounding — Her songs consistently pointed listeners back to the truth of God’s Word.
As Psalm 34:3 declares, “Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together!” Kim embodied this call. She magnified the Lord through every song she sang.
A Voice That Pointed to Christ
It is important to remember that worship leaders are not the focus of our faith. Jesus Christ alone deserves all glory, honor, and praise. Kim Walker-Smith understood this truth deeply. Her role was always to point people toward the Savior, not herself.
Through Jesus Culture, she helped create worship experiences that drew thousands into the presence of God. Songs like “I Exalt Thee” reminded believers of God’s faithfulness and His worthiness of all praise. The lyrics echo the heart of Scripture: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16, NKJV).
Kim’s journey with Jesus Culture remains a testament to what happens when a worship leader surrenders fully to God. Her legacy continues to inspire Christians worldwide to lift their voices in praise to Jesus Christ — the only Name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).
What Church Does Jesus Culture Belong To?
Jesus Culture’s Connection to Bethel Church
Jesus Culture is a worship movement that is deeply connected to Bethel Church in Redding, California. In fact, Jesus Culture began as a youth ministry within Bethel Church before growing into a global worship movement. Understanding this connection helps us see how God can use a local church to impact the world for His glory.
Bethel Church is a non-denominational charismatic church that has been a significant influence in modern worship. Jesus Culture emerged from the heart of this community, carrying forward a passion for worship and revival. Their roots in Bethel Church provided the foundation for everything Jesus Culture has become today.
The Origins of the Movement
Jesus Culture started in the late 1990s as a youth group at Bethel Church. What began as local worship gatherings quickly grew into something much larger. Young people were drawn to the authentic, Spirit-led worship and the focus on encountering Jesus.
As the movement grew, it expanded beyond the walls of Bethel Church. Conferences, albums, and outreach events followed. Yet the connection to Bethel remained strong. The values and teachings of Bethel Church shaped the DNA of Jesus Culture from the beginning.
Shared Values and Beliefs
Both Jesus Culture and Bethel Church share core beliefs that are rooted in Scripture. These include:
- The authority of the Bible as the Word of God
- the divinity of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
- the power of the Holy Spirit to transform lives
- The importance of worship as a lifestyle, not just a Sunday event
- the Great Commission to share the Gospel with the world
These shared values have kept the connection between Jesus Culture and Bethel Church strong over the years. Both are committed to lifting high the name of Jesus and seeing lives changed by His power.
How the Connection Shapes Their Music
The relationship between Jesus Culture and Bethel Church is clearly reflected in their music. Songs like “I Exalt Thee” carry the same spirit of worship that has defined Bethel Church for decades. The lyrics focus entirely on exalting Jesus Christ as the risen King.
Their music is designed to create an atmosphere where people can encounter God. This approach comes directly from the worship culture at Bethel Church. It is not about performance. It is about pointing hearts toward Jesus.
As Psalm 34:3 says, “Oh magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.” This is the heart of everything Jesus Culture creates. Every song, every lyric, and every moment of worship is about Jesus alone.
A Global Impact Rooted in One Church
Today, Jesus Culture has reached millions around the world. Their albums, conferences, and online presence have spread far beyond Redding, California. Yet the foundation remains the same. The teachings of Bethel Church and the focus on Jesus Christ continue to guide the movement.
Whether you hear “I Exalt Thee” in a small group or at a large conference, the message is the same. Jesus is Lord. He is worthy of all praise. And through worship, we draw closer to Him.
If you want to learn more about the worship movement and its roots, you can visit the Jesus Culture official website for additional information. Their story is a beautiful example of what happens when a church focuses entirely on Jesus.
No matter where worship happens, the most important thing is that Jesus Christ is at the center. He is the reason for every song, every lyric, and every moment of praise. That is the true heart of this movement.
Is Kim Walker-Smith Still With Jesus Culture?
Kim Walker-Smith is no longer a full-time member of Jesus Culture. She stepped away from the group in 2020 to focus on her solo ministry and family life. However, her heart for worship remains deeply rooted in the same Jesus-centered mission that defined her years with the collective. Her journey after Jesus Culture reflects a continued passion for leading others into the presence of God.
Transitioning to Solo Worship Leadership
After more than a decade as one of the most recognizable voices in modern worship, Kim Walker-Smith made the decision to pursue independent worship leading and recording. This was not a departure from her faith, but a new chapter in her calling. She has continued to release music under her own name, including albums like “Wild Heart” and “No Temeré,” which carry the same spirit of adoration found in songs like “Jesus Culture I Exalt Thee.”
- She released her solo album “Wild Heart” in 2021, featuring original worship songs.
- She continues to travel and lead worship at conferences and events worldwide.
- She remains active on social media, sharing devotionals and worship content.
Her Continued Influence in the Worship Community
Even though Kim Walker-Smith is no longer officially part of Jesus Culture, her influence endures. Many believers still associate her voice with some of the most powerful moments in contemporary worship. Her rendition of “Jesus Culture I Exalt Thee” remains one of the most popular versions of the hymn. Furthermore, she frequently collaborates with other worship leaders and occasionally appears at Jesus Culture events as a guest.
Her faith in Jesus Christ remains the foundation of everything she does. As she has shared in interviews, her mission has always been to point people to the cross. Whether through Jesus Culture or her solo work, that mission has never changed.
A Faith That Points to Jesus
Kim Walker-Smith’s journey after Jesus Culture is a testament to a life surrendered to Christ. She has spoken openly about the importance of intimacy with God and the transformative power of worship. Her story encourages believers to remain steadfast in their walk with Jesus, regardless of circumstances.
In the end, Kim Walker-Smith is still very much with the heart of Jesus Culture, even if she is no longer on the roster. Her music, her testimony, and her ministry all continue to glorify the name of Jesus. As Scripture says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it'” (Isaiah 30:21). Her path has simply branched, but the destination remains the same — exalting the name of Jesus.
Jesus Culture “I Exalt Thee” Lyrics and Chords
Full Lyrics to “I Exalt Thee”
Jesus Culture’s rendition of “I Exalt Thee” is a powerful declaration of praise to our Lord Jesus Christ. The song draws from Psalm 145:1, which says, “I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.” Below are the full lyrics to this beloved worship song.
Verse 1:
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
Chorus:
For Thou art great and doest wondrous things
Thou art God alone
For Thou art great and doest wondrous things
Thou art God alone
Verse 2:
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
Chorus:
For Thou art great and doest wondrous things
Thou art God alone
For Thou art great and doest wondrous things
Thou art God alone
Bridge:
Who is like unto Thee?
Who is like unto Thee?
O Lord, who is like unto Thee?
Outro:
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee
I exalt Thee, O Lord
These lyrics are a beautiful expression of worship. They remind us that Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise and honor. As Psalm 145:3 declares, “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom.”
Chords for “I Exalt Thee”
For those who wish to play and sing “I Exalt Thee,” here are the basic chords used in the Jesus Culture version. The song is typically played in the key of G major, though it can be transposed to suit your vocal range.
| Section | Chord Progression |
|---|---|
| Verse | G – C – D – G |
| Chorus | C – G – D – G |
| Bridge | Em – C – D – G |
| Outro | G – C – D – G |
Here is a simple strumming pattern to follow:
- Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up — This pattern works well for both the verse and chorus sections.
- Keep a steady, worshipful tempo throughout the song.
- Feel free to slow down during the bridge for a more intimate, reflective moment.
Additionally, if you prefer to play in a different key, here are the chord equivalents for common keys:
| Key | Verse Chords | Chorus Chords | Bridge Chords |
|---|---|---|---|
| G Major | G – C – D – G | C – G – D – G | Em – C – D – G |
| A Major | A – D – E – A | D – A – E – A | F#m – D – E – A |
| C Major | C – F – G – C | F – C – G – C | Am – F – G – C |
| D Major | D – G – A – D | G – D – A – D | Bm – G – A – D |
Playing “I Exalt Thee” is a wonderful way to enter into worship. Whether you are leading a congregation or singing in your personal devotion, let these chords guide your heart toward the throne of Jesus. As Colossians 3:16 encourages us, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
We hope these lyrics and chords help you worship our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with joy and reverence. He alone is worthy of all our praise!
The Original “I Exalt Thee” Hymn
The History of the Original Hymn
The beloved worship song “I Exalt Thee” has a rich history that stretches back decades. It was originally written by Pete Sanchez, a gifted songwriter and worship leader. He composed this powerful hymn as an expression of praise and adoration to Jesus Christ. The song’s lyrics are deeply rooted in Scripture, drawing inspiration from passages like Psalm 145:1, which says, “I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.”
Furthermore, the hymn emerged during a time when contemporary Christian worship was evolving. It became a staple in churches across many denominations. Its simple yet profound melody made it accessible to congregations everywhere.
The Lyrics and Their Biblical Foundation
The original hymn focuses entirely on the majesty of Jesus Christ. Each verse builds upon the central truth of who He is. The chorus declares:
- “I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord”
- “Thou art the Lamb upon the throne”
- “Thou art the risen King”
These words echo the revelation given to the apostle John in Revelation 5:12, where every creature in heaven cries out, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain.” The hymn captures this heavenly worship and brings it into our earthly gatherings.
How the Hymn Spread Through the Church
Over the years, “I Exalt Thee” became one of the most recognized worship songs in Christendom. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:
- Simplicity: The melody is easy to learn and sing.
- Scriptural depth: Every line points to biblical truth.
- Congregational focus: It invites all believers to join in unified praise.
- Timeless message: The exaltation of Jesus never grows old.
As a result, countless hymnals and songbooks have included this treasured hymn. It bridged traditional and contemporary worship styles, making it relevant for generations of believers.
Jesus Culture’s Connection to the Original Hymn
When Jesus Culture began their ministry, they recognized the power of this classic hymn. They chose to include “I Exalt Thee” in their repertoire. Their version brought renewed energy and passion to the song. Furthermore, they introduced it to a new generation of worshippers who may not have encountered the original.
Their rendition maintains the hymn’s core message while adding modern musical elements. This blend honors the song’s heritage. It also demonstrates how timeless worship can be expressed in fresh ways. The focus remains the same: Jesus Christ is Lord and worthy of all praise.
As Scripture reminds us in Colossians 3:16, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.” The original “I Exalt Thee” hymn continues to fulfill this calling today.
Popular Jesus Culture Songs
Other Notable Jesus Culture Worship Songs
Jesus Culture has produced many powerful worship songs beyond their rendition of “I Exalt Thee.” Their music has shaped modern worship across churches worldwide. Furthermore, their songs focus on exalting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. In addition, they have created a lasting impact on contemporary Christian worship.
Their live recordings capture the heart of passionate, Spirit-led worship. As a result, many of their songs have become staples in churches globally. Here are some of the most notable Jesus Culture worship songs:
- “How He Loves” — Originally by John Mark McMillan, popularized by Jesus Culture. This song celebrates the immeasurable love of God. It reminds us that God’s love is wild and uncontainable.
- “Forever” — A powerful anthem of praise. It declares that God’s faithfulness endures forever. Furthermore, it has become one of their most recognized songs.
- “Unstoppable” — This bold declaration of faith proclaims that nothing can stop God’s purposes. It encourages believers to trust in God’s power.
- “Alive in You” — A song of surrender and devotion. It expresses the life found only in Christ.
- “Miracles” — This song celebrates the miraculous power of Jesus. It reminds us that God still works miracles today.
- “Beautiful” — A tender worship song. It reflects on the beauty of Jesus and His presence.
- “One Thing Remains” — Another John Mark McMillan song popularized by Jesus Culture. It declares that God’s love never fails.
These songs share a common thread. They all point believers to the goodness of Jesus. In addition, they remind us that God is faithful. As Psalm 100:5 tells us, “For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” Furthermore, Jesus Culture’s music continues to inspire worship leaders and congregations around the world.
The Impact of Jesus Culture’s Music
Jesus Culture began as a youth movement in Redding, California. Furthermore, they have grown into a global worship phenomenon. Their annual conferences draw thousands of young believers. As a result, their influence on modern worship cannot be overstated. In addition, their music bridges generational gaps in worship.
Their approach to worship is characterized by:
- Extended times of spontaneous worship
- Youthful energy and passion for Jesus
- Emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s presence
- Intimate, heartfelt lyrics
- Live recording atmosphere
Moreover, their songs are biblically grounded. They draw from scripture and personal experience. As Colossians 3:16 instructs, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Furthermore, Jesus Culture’s music helps believers meditate on God’s Word through song.
How to Use Jesus Culture Songs in Worship
Many churches incorporate Jesus Culture songs into their services. In addition, these songs work well for personal devotion. Furthermore, they are suitable for both corporate and private worship. Here are some ways to use their music:
- Sunday worship services — Their songs fit well in modern worship sets
- Personal prayer time — The intimate songs help focus on Jesus
- Youth gatherings — Their music resonates with younger generations
- Small group worship — Many songs work with simple chord charts
- Communion meditation — Songs like “How He Loves” reflect on the cross
As Ephesians 5:19 speaks to, “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” Furthermore, worship through song is a vital part of the Christian life. In addition, Jesus Culture’s music provides a rich resource for believers seeking to deepen their worship.
Where to Find Jesus Culture Music
Jesus Culture has released numerous albums over the years. Furthermore, their music is widely available. You can find their songs on major streaming platforms. In addition, chord charts are available for worship leaders. Here are some popular albums:
| Album Name | Year Released | Notable Songs |
|---|---|---|
| Live from New York (with Kim Walker-Smith) | 2012 | How He Loves, Forever |
| Unstoppable | 2014 | Unstoppable, Alive in You |
| Let It Be Known | 2016 | Let It Be Known, Miracles |
| Living With a Fire | 2018 | Living With a Fire, Move |
Their music is available on all major platforms. Furthermore, you can find chord charts on their website. In addition, many churches use their songs regularly. As a result, their influence continues to grow. Their music remains a vital part of modern worship.
Jesus Culture’s songs, including their powerful rendition of “I Exalt Thee,” continue to draw hearts to worship. Furthermore, their music reminds us that Jesus is worthy of all praise. As Revelation 5:12 declares, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.” In addition, their legacy of worship will continue to impact generations of believers. Most importantly, every song points to the one true King — Jesus Christ our Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the female lead singer of Jesus Culture?
Kim Walker-Smith is the most recognized female lead singer associated with Jesus Culture. She served as a worship leader and key vocalist for the group. Her powerful voice and passionate delivery made her a standout figure in modern worship music. She helped introduce many to the Jesus Culture I Exalt Thee experience.
What church does Jesus Culture belong to?
Jesus Culture is a Christian movement that originated from Bethel Church in Redding, California. Bethel Church is a non-denominational charismatic church. [1] Jesus Culture operates as a ministry focused on worship and outreach, holding conferences and producing music that centers on Jesus.
Is there a story behind “I Exalt Thee”?
Yes, the song “I Exalt Thee” has a rich history. Originally written by Pete Sanchez in 1975, it was popularized by Jesus Culture’s rendition. Their version brought the hymn to a new generation. The lyrics focus on the majesty of God and the act of worship.
Is Kim Walker-Smith still with Jesus Culture?
Kim Walker-Smith transitioned from her role as a primary worship leader with Jesus Culture. She has since pursued a solo career in worship music. She continues to lead worship and release music that glorifies Jesus. Her influence remains significant in the worship community.
