"This Means War!" is a song by Petra. It was written and composed by the band's guitarist and vocalist Bob Hartman. The song was released in 1987 as part of the band's ninth studio album which bears the same title. It was also included in the 40th Anniversary album released in 2013.
Lyrics[]
Words and music by Bob Hartman
Son of the morning - highest of all
You had so much going till you took the fall
Had a place in the glory but you wanted it all
Impossible odds but you had the gall
It seemed so unlikely that you would rebel
Such a worthy opponent that you knew so well
But you went down fighting when you heard the bell
Took a third down from heaven when you went to hell
(Chorus)
This means war - and the battle's still raging
War - and though both sides are waging
The Victor is sure and the victory secure
But till judgment we all must endure
This means war!
Then came the cross - you thought you had won
You thought you had conquered God's only Son
"So much for Jesus," you said in jest
Then you got a visit from an unwelcome guest
Now it's all over down to the wire
Counting the days to your own lake of fire
But you'll go down fighting for all that you're worth
To try to abolish His image on earth
Credits[]
- Bob Hartman – Lead guitar, arrangements
- Mark Kelly – Bass guitar, background vocals
- John Lawry – Keyboards, background vocals
- John Schlitt – Lead vocals
- Louie Weaver – Drums
- Tom Hrbacek and Los Alamitos High School Marching Drummers – Drum section
Other versions[]
Live versions[]
"This Means War!" was part of a live medley featured in the 2005 live album Petra Farewell. This performance features Greg Bailey on bass and Paul Simmons on drums.
Remake[]
In 2000, Petra rearranged and recorded the song in the album Double Take. This version features Pete Orta on guitars, Lonnie Chapin on bass, and Trent Thomason on keyboards.