The Old Rugged Cross
Embracing Redemption: The Profound Message of 'The Old Rugged Cross'
Lyrics
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
Describes the physical location of an old rugged cross on a distant hill.
The emblem of suffering and shame
Symbolizes the cross as a representation of suffering and shame.
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
Expresses affection for the old cross where the most beloved (dearest and best) was sacrificed for lost sinners.
For a world of lost sinners was slain
Highlights the redemptive purpose of Christ's sacrifice for the world of sinners.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Declares the intention to cherish the old rugged cross until personal achievements (trophies) are surrendered.
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
Emphasizes the commitment to lay down personal accomplishments in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Expresses a determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Anticipates exchanging the old cross for a heavenly crown in the future.
O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world
Acknowledges that the world may despise the old cross, but it holds a special attraction for the speaker.
Has a wondrous attraction for me
Highlights the mysterious allure of the old rugged cross.
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
Explains that the Lamb of God left glory to bear the cross to dark Calvary.
To bear it to dark Calvary
Describes the purpose of Christ's sacrifice on the cross to atone for sins.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterates the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
Reiterates the willingness to lay down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirms the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Repeats the expectation of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown.
In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine
Describes the old rugged cross as stained with divine blood, emphasizing its sacred beauty.
A wondrous beauty I see
Expresses awe at the wondrous beauty seen in the stained cross.
For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died
Explains that Jesus suffered and died on the cross for the forgiveness and sanctification of the speaker.
To pardon and sanctify me
Highlights the transformative impact of Jesus' sacrifice on the speaker.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterates the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
Reiterates the willingness to lay down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirms the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Repeats the expectation of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
Declares a commitment to remain true to the old rugged cross despite its shame and reproach.
Its shame and reproach gladly bare
Expresses a readiness to bear the shame and reproach of the cross.
Then He'll call me some day to my home far away
Foresees a future day when the speaker will be called to a heavenly home.
Where His glory forever I'll share
Anticipates sharing in the eternal glory of God's presence.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterates the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
'Til my trophies at last I lay down
Reiterates the willingness to lay down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirms the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Repeats the expectation of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown.
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