The phrase ‘knowing you, Jesus’ refers to the intimate, personal relationship with Christ that is central to the Christian faith, beautifully expressed in the worship song by Graham Kendrick. This song highlights that true knowledge of Jesus is not just intellectual, but a deep, transformative experience of His love and grace.
There are songs that we sing with our mouths, and then there are songs that sink deep into the very core of our souls. “Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick is one of those rare worship songs that transcends melody and lyrics—it becomes a heartfelt declaration of what it means to walk with Christ. For decades, believers around the world have lifted this song in churches, prayer meetings, and quiet moments of personal devotion, finding in its simple yet profound words a truth that echoes throughout Scripture: that the greatest treasure in all of life is not what we do for Jesus, but the intimate, personal relationship we have with Him.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the meaning behind this beloved worship song. We will explore its lyrics, the theological truths woven into every line, and the vision of its songwriter, Graham Kendrick. Whether you are a new believer just beginning to understand what it means to follow Christ, or a mature Christian seeking to deepen your walk with Him, this exploration of “knowing you jesus” will point you back to the heart of the Gospel—a living, breathing relationship with the risen Lord. Let us journey together into the beauty of knowing Jesus, not merely as a historical figure or a distant deity, but as the Savior who calls each of us by name.
What is the song ‘Knowing You, Jesus’ about?
The Heart of the Song: A Desire for Christ
At its core, “Knowing You, Jesus” is a song about one thing: a deep, personal longing to know Christ above all else. It is not merely a hymn of praise. It is a prayer. It is a declaration that nothing in this world compares to the surpassing worth of a relationship with Jesus.
The song echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:8, where he writes, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” [1] This is the heartbeat of the song. It is a surrender. It is a holy dissatisfaction with anything less than the fullness of God.
Furthermore, the song moves beyond surface-level worship. It calls the believer into a deeper walk. It asks the honest question: Do I truly know You, Lord? Or do I only know about You? This distinction is vital. As a result, the song has become a powerful tool for personal reflection and spiritual renewal.
The central themes of the song include:
- A Hunger for God: The lyrics express a deep spiritual thirst that only Jesus can satisfy.
- The Supremacy of Christ: It affirms that Jesus is greater than any earthly treasure or achievement.
- Intimacy Over Religion: The song prioritizes a living relationship with Jesus over mere religious ritual.
- Total Surrender: It is an offering of one’s whole life to the Lordship of Christ.
In addition, the song serves as a beautiful reminder of what truly matters. In a world full of distractions, it calls us back to the one thing that is eternal: knowing God. Jesus Himself defined eternal life in John 17:3, saying, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” [2] Therefore, this song is an invitation to step into that eternal life today.
Graham Kendrick: The Songwriter’s Vision
Graham Kendrick is one of the most influential Christian songwriters in the world. He has written hundreds of songs that are sung in churches globally. His vision has always been to create music that leads people into the authentic presence of God. “Knowing You, Jesus” is a perfect example of this lifelong mission.
Kendrick did not write this song for performance. He wrote it as an act of worship. His goal was to craft lyrics that were both theologically rich and personally accessible. He wanted every believer to be able to sing these words as their own heart’s cry. As a result, the song has crossed cultural and denominational boundaries.
Furthermore, Kendrick’s songwriting is deeply rooted in Scripture. He believes that the best songs are simply biblical truths set to music. “Knowing You, Jesus” is saturated with the language of the Psalms and the New Testament. It reflects a theology that is Christ-centered and Bible-based.
His vision for the song can be summarized in these points:
- Simplicity: The melody and lyrics are easy to learn, making it accessible to all.
- Depth: Despite its simplicity, the song carries profound theological weight.
- Congregational Focus: It was designed to be sung together by the body of Christ.
- Devotional Purpose: It is meant to be a tool for personal and corporate worship.
In addition to his musical gifts, Kendrick is known for his pastoral heart. He writes with the soul of a shepherd. He understands the struggles and joys of the Christian walk. Therefore, his songs resonate deeply with believers at every stage of faith. “Knowing You, Jesus” stands as a testament to his desire to point people to Christ alone.
Ultimately, Graham Kendrick’s vision for this song was to create a modern psalm. It is a song that invites the listener to move beyond the surface. It calls us to seek the face of God. It reminds us that the greatest treasure we will ever possess is not found in this world. It is found in knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
What are the lyrics to ‘Knowing You, Jesus’?
Verse and Chorus Breakdown
“Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick is a beloved worship song that has touched the hearts of believers around the world. The lyrics express a deep, personal longing to know Christ more intimately. Below is a breakdown of the song’s structure and its core message.
The song follows a simple yet powerful pattern of verses and a repeating chorus. Each verse builds upon the previous one, deepening the singer’s declaration of devotion.
Verse 1:
- “Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You, there is no greater thing”
- “You’re my all, You’re the best, You’re my joy and my righteousness“
- “And I love You, Lord”
Chorus:
- “Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You”
- “There is no greater thing”
- “You’re my all, You’re the best”
- “You’re my joy and my righteousness”
- “And I love You, Lord”
Verse 2:
- “Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You, there is no greater thing”
- “You’re my all, You’re the best, You’re my joy and my righteousness”
- “And I love You, Lord”
Bridge:
- “All I once held dear, built my life upon”
- “All this world reveres, and wars to own”
- “All I once thought gain I have counted loss”
- “Spent and worthless now, compared to this”
Final Chorus:
- “Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You”
- “There is no greater thing”
- “You’re my all, You’re the best”
- “You’re my joy and my righteousness”
- “And I love You, Lord”
The song’s structure is intentionally repetitive. This repetition is not a weakness. It is a strength. It allows the truth to sink deep into the heart. Each time the chorus returns, the singer reaffirms their devotion.
Theological Themes in the Lyrics
The lyrics of “Knowing You, Jesus” are rich with profound biblical truth. Several key theological themes emerge throughout the song.
1. The Supremacy of Christ
The opening line declares that knowing Jesus is “the greatest thing.” This echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:8, where he writes, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” [1] The song places Christ above all earthly treasures and achievements.
2. Christ as Our All
The phrase “You’re my all” speaks to the sufficiency of Christ. He is not merely one blessing among many. He is everything. As Colossians 2:10 states, “In Christ you have been brought to fullness.” [3] The song affirms that Jesus alone satisfies the deepest longings of the human soul.
3. Christ as Our Righteousness
The line “You’re my joy and my righteousness” points to a core doctrine of the Christian faith. We do not earn righteousness through our own efforts. Instead, we receive it as a gift through faith in Christ. As 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” [4]
4. The Call to Surrender
The bridge of the song is particularly powerful. It calls the believer to count all worldly gain as “loss” compared to knowing Christ. This mirrors Jesus’ own words in Matthew 16:24: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” [5] True knowing of Jesus requires a willingness to surrender everything else.
5. Love as the Response
The song concludes each section with the simple declaration, “And I love You, Lord.” This is the natural response to truly knowing who Jesus is. As 1 John 4:19 reminds us, “We love because he first loved us.” [6] Our love for Christ flows from His love for us.
In summary, “Knowing You, Jesus” is far more than a worship song. It is a theological declaration. It affirms the supremacy of Christ, the sufficiency of His grace, and the call to surrender all for the joy of knowing Him. Every line points back to the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that knowing Him is the greatest treasure of all.
How to play ‘Knowing You, Jesus’ (Chords & Sheet Music)
One of the most beautiful ways to deepen your relationship with Christ is through worship. Playing and singing “Knowing You, Jesus” is a powerful way to express your devotion. Whether you are a beginner guitarist or an experienced musician, this guide will help you learn how to play this beloved worship song. Furthermore, understanding the chord progression will allow you to lead others in worship and create an atmosphere of praise.
Basic Chord Progression
The song “Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick follows a simple and heartfelt chord progression. This makes it accessible for musicians of all skill levels. The key of G major is commonly used for congregational singing. However, you can easily transpose it to fit your vocal range.
Here is the basic chord structure for the song:
| Section | Chord Progression |
|---|---|
| Verse | G – C – D – G |
| Chorus | Em – C – G – D |
| Bridge | Am – C – D – G |
As a result, even if you are just starting out, you can begin playing this song with just a few basic chords. In addition, using a capo on the second or third fret can help match the original recording’s key. The strumming pattern is typically a gentle, flowing rhythm that supports the reflective nature of the lyrics.
Here are some tips for playing the song effectively:
- Start slowly: Practice each chord transition before adding the melody.
- Use a metronome: This will help you maintain a steady tempo during worship.
- Sing while you play: This deepens your personal connection to the words.
- Experiment with dynamics: Play softly during verses and build intensity in the chorus.
Ultimately, the goal is not perfection. Instead, the goal is to offer your worship to Jesus with a sincere heart. As Psalm 95:1 says, “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.” [7]
Finding the Official Sheet Music
For those who want to play the song with precise notation, obtaining the official sheet music is highly recommended. Graham Kendrick’s songs are published through several reputable Christian music publishers. Therefore, you can find accurate arrangements that include melody lines, lyrics, and chord charts.
Here are the best places to find official sheet music for “Knowing You, Jesus”:
- MakeWayMusic.com: Graham Kendrick’s official website, where you can purchase digital downloads and physical copies.
- CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International): If your church has a CCLI license, you may already have access to the song’s chord charts and lead sheets. [8]
- PraiseCharts.com: Offers transposable chord charts and sheet music for worship teams.
- Amazon or Christianbook.com: These retailers carry Graham Kendrick’s published songbooks, which often include this song.
In addition, many YouTube tutorials provide visual walkthroughs of the song. However, for the most accurate and complete arrangement, purchasing the official sheet music is always the best choice. Furthermore, supporting the songwriter through legitimate purchases ensures that more worship music can be created for the glory of God.
Playing “Knowing You, Jesus” is more than a musical exercise. It is an act of worship that draws you closer to the heart of Christ. As you practice and perform this song, let the lyrics remind you of the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. As Paul wrote in Philippians 3:8, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” [9]
What does it mean to truly know Jesus?
To truly know Jesus is the deepest longing of the human heart. It is more than simply knowing about Him. It is a living, personal, and transformative relationship with the Son of God. As Graham Kendrick’s beloved song “Knowing You, Jesus” so beautifully expresses, this knowledge is not cold or distant. It is intimate, life-giving, and the very source of eternal life.
Biblical Foundation: Knowing God (John 17:3)
Jesus Himself defined eternal life in breathtakingly simple terms. In His high priestly prayer, He declared:
“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” — John 17:3 (ESV)
This verse is the bedrock of what it means to truly know Jesus. Notice that eternal life is not merely living forever. It is knowing God personally. Furthermore, this knowledge is inseparable from knowing Jesus Christ, whom the Father sent.
Consider what this means:
- Knowing Jesus is the essence of eternal life. It is not a bonus or an add-on. It is the life God offers us.
- This knowledge is relational, not merely informational. The Greek word for “know” here (ginōskō) implies personal experience and intimate acquaintance, not just intellectual awareness.
- Jesus is the only way to the Father. As He said in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Therefore, to truly know Jesus is to enter into the very life of God. It is to be known by Him and to know Him in return. This is the heartbeat of the Gospel.
From Head Knowledge to Heart Experience
Many people know about Jesus. They can recite facts about His life, His miracles, and His teachings. However, the Bible makes a clear distinction between knowing about God and truly knowing Him.
The apostle Paul is a powerful example of this transformation. Before encountering Christ on the road to Damascus, Paul was deeply religious. He knew the Scriptures thoroughly. Yet he was persecuting the very church of God. After his encounter with the risen Jesus, Paul’s entire life was reoriented. He wrote in Philippians 3:8:
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” — Philippians 3:8 (ESV)
Paul did not simply add Jesus to his list of religious knowledge. He encountered the living Christ, and everything changed.
So what does the journey from head knowledge to heart experience look like?
- It begins with repentance and faith. We must turn from our sin and trust in Jesus alone for salvation (Acts 3:19; Ephesians 2:8-9).
- It grows through the Word of God. As we read and meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to us in deeper and deeper ways (John 16:13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
- It deepens through prayer and worship. In communion with God, we experience His presence, His love, and His transforming power (Psalm 27:8; John 4:23-24).
- It is confirmed by the witness of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit within us testifies that we are children of God and seals our relationship with Christ (Romans 8:15-16; Galatians 4:6).
- It produces a life of obedience and love. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). True knowing always leads to transformed living.
In addition, this heart knowledge of Jesus is not a one-time event. It is a lifelong journey of growing closer to Him. As the song “Knowing You, Jesus” reminds us, our deepest desire should be to know Him more each day. Furthermore, this desire is not in vain, because God promises that those who seek Him with all their heart will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).
To truly know Jesus is to have your life forever changed by His grace. It is to move from the shadows of religion into the radiant light of a personal relationship with the living God. As Jesus said, “Whoever has the Son has life” (1 John 5:12). This is the invitation that stands before every person today — to know Jesus, and in knowing Him, to receive eternal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing you jesus bible verse
The most foundational Bible verse about knowing Jesus is John 17:3. Jesus Himself said, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” This verse reveals that eternal life is not merely about rules or religion. It is about a personal, intimate relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ. [10]
Furthermore, the Bible consistently emphasizes that knowing Jesus is the core of the Christian faith. Consider these additional scriptures:
- Philippians 3:8 — Paul counted everything as loss “because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”
- Jeremiah 24:7 — God promises to give His people “a heart to know me, that I am the LORD.”
- Galatians 2:20 — “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
These verses show that knowing Jesus transforms the heart, renews the mind, and defines the believer’s entire identity.
Knowing You, Jesus lyrics and chords
The beloved worship song “Knowing You, Jesus” by Graham Kendrick expresses a deep longing to know Christ more intimately. The lyrics reflect a heart surrendered to Jesus, moving beyond surface-level faith into genuine devotion. The song’s chorus captures this beautifully:
“Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You / There is no greater thing / You’re my all, You’re the best thing / You’re my joy, my everything.”
For those who wish to play this song, the basic chord progression is accessible for worship leaders and musicians. The song is commonly played in the key of D major. Here is a simplified chord structure:
| Section | Chord Progression |
|---|---|
| Verse | D – G – A – D |
| Chorus | D – G – Bm – A |
| Bridge | G – A – D – Bm |
However, we recommend listening to the original recording to capture the full feel and dynamics of the song. The chord progression may vary slightly depending on the arrangement.
Graham Kendrick – Knowing You, Jesus lyrics
Graham Kendrick is one of the most influential worship songwriters of the modern era. “Knowing You, Jesus” remains one of his most cherished compositions. The full lyrics of the song are a prayer of surrender and adoration. Here is a summary of the song’s key themes:
- Verse 1: The singer acknowledges that nothing compares to the joy of knowing Jesus personally.
- Chorus: A declaration that knowing Jesus is the greatest treasure in life.
- Verse 2: A prayer for deeper intimacy with Christ, asking Him to reveal His heart.
- Bridge: A commitment to follow Jesus no matter the cost.
The full lyrics are copyrighted by Graham Kendrick. To access the complete lyrics, please visit his official website or a licensed lyrics database. [11]
Knowing You Jesus Sheet Music
For worship leaders, pianists, and musicians, the official sheet music for “Knowing You, Jesus” is available through licensed music publishers. The sheet music includes:
- Full piano arrangement
- Guitar chords and notation
- Vocal melody line
- Lead sheet format for worship teams
You can find the official sheet music at the following sources:
Always ensure you are using licensed sheet music to support the songwriter and respect copyright.
Knowing You Jesus youtube
“Knowing You, Jesus” is widely available on YouTube. Many worship teams and individuals have uploaded performances of this beautiful song. To find the original version by Graham Kendrick, search for:
- “Knowing You Jesus Graham Kendrick official”
- “Knowing You Jesus worship”
- “Knowing You Jesus lyrics”
As a result of its enduring popularity, you will find many renditions across different styles — from acoustic versions to full choir performances. We encourage you to listen and let the truth of this song draw your heart closer to Jesus. Furthermore, many of these videos include the lyrics on screen, making it easy to sing along and meditate on the words.
In conclusion, “Knowing You, Jesus” is more than a song. It is a prayer, a declaration, and an invitation. Whether you are a new believer or a lifelong follower of Christ, this song reminds us that the greatest pursuit in life is to know Jesus Himself. As Scripture says in John 17:3, eternal life is found in knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.
Sources
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+3:8&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+17:3&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+2:10&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+5:21&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+16:24&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+John+4:19&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+95&version=NIV
- https://www.ccli.com
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+3&version=NIV
- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2017:3&version=NIV
- https://www.grahamkendrick.co.uk/
- https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/
- https://www.praisecharts.com/
