Song Review: “Alpha and Omega” by Israel & New Breed

Introduction

Alpha and Omega by Israel & New Breed is a powerful worship anthem that exalts God as the eternal Creator and King. With lyrics rooted in Scripture and a repetitive structure that deepens worship, this song has become a global favourite in Christian gatherings. 

Its simplicity and depth allow worshippers to fully engage with God, whether in personal devotion or in a congregational setting. As the song begins by referencing its roots in Zimbabwe, it carries a sense of unity across nations, reflecting worship’s global reach.

Alpha and Omega: God’s Eternal Nature

The title and opening lines, “You are Alpha and Omega,” directly refer to Revelation 22:13, where Jesus proclaims, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” 

This declaration is central to the song’s message, acknowledging God’s eternal nature — He is the origin and conclusion of all things. This recognition invites worshippers into a space of awe, reflecting on God’s sovereignty and His role as both Creator and Sustainer of life.

Worship and Worthiness: Giving Glory to God

The heart of the song lies in the proclamation, “We worship You, our Lord / You are worthy to be praised” (Psalm 145:3, NIV: “Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise”). 

This is repeated multiple times, reinforcing the truth that God is worthy of all glory and honor. The phrase “We give You all the glory” is a direct expression of praise, drawing from verses like 1 Chronicles 16:29 (NIV), “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name.”

The repetition of the chorus allows worshippers to meditate on God’s worthiness, mirroring the heavenly worship depicted in Revelation 4:11 (NIV): “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things.”

Engaging in Spontaneous Worship

One of the key moments in the song comes when Israel invites the congregation to engage in spontaneous worship: “With your hands lifted up, in your own voice / With your own song / Fill this room with worship.”

This creates a space for individual expression, where worshippers can lift up their personal praises to God. This moment aligns with John 4:23 (NIV): “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth.”

The bridge, which declares “Africa will rise and give You glory,” emphasizes the global nature of worship, encouraging believers from all nations to join in giving glory to God (Psalm 86:9, NIV: “All the nations You have made will come and worship before You, Lord; they will bring glory to Your name”).

Repetition as a Form of Devotion

The repetitive structure of “Alpha and Omega” plays a vital role in deepening worship. Each repetition of “We give You all the glory” and “You are worthy to be praised” allows the listener to move from intellectual acknowledgement to heartfelt devotion. 

This mirrors the biblical practice of repetitive praise seen in the Psalms, such as Psalm 136, where the phrase “His love endures forever” is repeated throughout.

The continual proclamation of God’s worthiness draws worshippers into a posture of complete surrender, where they focus solely on God’s greatness. This aligns with the call in Philippians 4:4 (NIV): “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Conclusion

“Alpha and Omega” by Israel & New Breed is a song that beautifully captures the essence of worship — giving God the glory He is due and acknowledging His eternal nature. 

With lyrics steeped in Scripture, it offers both a theological depth and an emotional resonance that make it a powerful tool for corporate and personal worship. 

As the song’s declaration, “You are worthy to be praised,” echoes through the hearts of worshippers, it invites all who listen to join in the heavenly chorus, proclaiming God’s greatness across the globe.