Jesus He Knows Me

Genesis' 'Jesus He Knows Me' is a satirical take on televangelism and the hypocrisy that can be found within some corners of organized religion, particularly in the context of the late 20th century when televangelists were gaining prominence on television. The song's lyrics, penned by lead singer Phil Collins, are delivered from the perspective of a deceitful and greedy televangelist who exploits the faith of his followers for personal gain. The character boasts about his public image and material success, all while leading a life that contradicts the moral and ethical teachings he preaches.

The chorus, 'Cause Jesus, He knows me, and He knows I'm right,' is a tongue-in-cheek assertion of the televangelist's self-righteousness, claiming a personal relationship with Jesus to justify his actions. This refrain highlights the irony of the character's delusion of moral superiority despite his unethical behavior. The song criticizes the commercialization of religion and the manipulation of believers by charismatic figures who prioritize wealth and power over genuine spiritual guidance.

The narrative of the song is a cautionary tale about the dangers of blindly following leaders without scrutinizing their actions and intentions. It serves as a critique of those who use religion as a facade for personal gain and a reminder to listeners to be wary of false prophets. The song's catchy melody and upbeat rhythm juxtapose the serious message, making it an effective vehicle for the band's commentary on the state of televangelism and the broader implications for society's relationship with religion and morality.