Soon and Very Soon
Theology & Meaning
Andraé Crouch's classic gospel-influenced anthem is one of the most theologically rich and congregationally accessible eschatological songs in the evangelical repertoire. Its triple declaration — no more crying, no more dying, going to see the King — maps directly onto the New Jerusalem promise of Revelation 21:4 where God wipes every tear and death is no more. Theologically the song maintains healthy eschatological urgency without speculation; it does not dwell on tribulation timelines but on the certain joy of final union with Christ. The repeated phrase 'soon and very soon' echoes Revelation 22:20 ('surely I am coming soon') and functions liturgically as the gathered church's response to Jesus's own promise. The march-like feel evokes pilgrimage — the people of God moving toward their destination. This song's power lies in how it translates theological truth into congregational prayer. The imagery of Christ's work moves beyond abstract doctrine into lived experience—the weight of His love becomes tangible in the worship moment. For congregations wrestling with assurance, this song provides both intellectual grounding and emotional release, reminding them that their standing before God rests entirely on Christ's finished work, not their own fluctuating righteousness. In pastoral ministry, you'll find this song particularly effective during seasons of doubt or discouragement, when worshippers need to be anchored back to foundational gospel realities. It serves as a corrective to therapeutic religion while maintaining tenderness—acknowledging both the cosmic scope of what Christ accomplished and the intensely personal nature of His love for each believer. The song refuses false comfort but offers genuine hope, grounded in redemptive history.
Worship Leadership Tips
Particularly powerful in services that involve grief, memorial, or the close of a significant season. When sung well, it moves congregations from lamentation to eschatological hope without denying pain — it simply puts pain in its proper perspective. In African-American worship tradition it is often sung as a processional or recessional, which honors its pilgrimage theology. Invite the congregation to clap along on beats 2 and 4 for the traditional gospel feel. Pay careful attention to congregational familiarity. This song works most powerfully when people sing it from the heart rather than from paper. If your congregation is learning it, consider leading it across multiple weeks to allow it to settle into their memory. The pacing matters: rushing the tempo steals contemplative power. When positioned as a response to Scripture or sermon, let the word-music relationship speak without over-explanation. The song's theology is clear and will land differently in different hearts. Some worshippers need it for personal assurance; others need it to deepen understanding of Christ's work; still others sing it as thanksgiving for grace already experienced. Trust the song to do its work in the Spirit's hands.
Arrangement Tips
The song's natural home is a gospel piano style with full choir, but it adapts beautifully to any configuration. On piano, a strong left-hand bass walk and syncopated chords in the right hand give it authentic feel. Add handclaps, bass guitar, and light drumming rather than a full rock kit to keep the gospel character. A modulation to Bb after the final chorus lifts the energy for the triumphant close. Consider what instruments enter and when. Start simply, add layers gradually, then strip back for intimate moments. This respects both the congregation's singing ability and the song's theological weight. For smaller churches, piano with cello gives support without overwhelming. In larger settings, be judicious with drums—a light brush can suggest the meter. Electric guitar should create harmonic interest rather than double the keyboard. Remember: support congregational singing and theological meditation.
Scripture References
- Revelation 21:1-4
- 1 Thessalonians 4:17
- John 14:2-3
- 1 Corinthians 15:52
- Revelation 22:20