All I Have Is Christ

Jordan Kauflin (b. 1982)

Jordan Kauflin is a contemporary worship leader, songwriter, and pastor who has become a significant figure in the modern hymnody movement. Born into a musical family, he is the son of Bob Kauflin, the director of Sovereign Grace Music. Jordan has spent his career serving local churches and contributing to the global church through songs that combine contemporary accessibility with deep theological foundations. He currently serves as a pastor at Christ Covenant Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

Kauflin’s work is characterized by a "new hymn" style—songs that often follow a traditional verse-chorus structure but utilize the rich, objective language of historical creeds and confessions. His writing often focuses on the sufficiency of Christ, the necessity of grace, and the hope of the believer in the midst of suffering. He is a frequent collaborator with other modern hymn-writers, including Matt Merker, Keith Getty, and his father, Bob Kauflin.

His most enduring contribution to modern worship is the hymn "All I Have Is Christ," which has become a staple in Reformed and evangelical congregations worldwide. The song, a personal testimony of conversion and devotion, exemplifies Kauflin’s ability to take complex theological themes like total depravity and substitutionary atonement and render them into deeply personal and singable prayer.

The "Modern Hymn" Philosophy

Jordan Kauflin’s songwriting is often a direct reflection of the Sovereign Grace Music philosophy, which prioritizes:

• Biblical Fidelity: Ensuring every line of a song is grounded in specific scriptural truths.

• Emotional Honesty: Allowing space for lament and waiting, rather than focusing solely on "triumphant" themes.

• Congregational Focus: Writing melodies that are "servant-like"—designed to be easily sung by a room full of people rather than a solo performer.

Collaborative Impact

Kauflin is known for his work with Getty Music, particularly on projects that seek to bridge the gap between historical hymnody and modern church life. His involvement in the Sing! conferences has helped train a new generation of songwriters to focus on "lyrics that last." He often participates in "hymn-writing retreats" where the goal is to produce music that supports the preaching of the Word.