Old Rugged Cross
Embracing Redemption: The Profound Message of 'Old Rugged Cross'
Lyrics
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
Describing the location of an old, weathered cross on a distant hill.
The emblem of suffering and shame
Portraying the cross as a symbol of suffering and disgrace.
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
Expressing affection for the cross where Jesus, the dearest and best, was crucified for the salvation of lost sinners.
For a world of lost sinners was slain
Highlighting the sacrificial act of Jesus for the redemption of a sinful world.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Committing to cherish the old cross throughout life.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Expressing a commitment to hold onto the cross until personal achievements or trophies are surrendered.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Committing to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Anticipating the exchange of the old cross for a heavenly crown in the future.
O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world
Acknowledging that the world may despise the old cross.
Has a wondrous attraction for me
Expressing a personal attraction and reverence for the despised cross.
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
Referring to Jesus as the Lamb of God who left glory to bear the cross to Calvary.
To bear it to dark Calvary
Emphasizing the purpose of Jesus' journey to Calvary for the forgiveness of sins.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterating the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Repeating the idea of laying down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirming the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Reiterating the hope of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown in the future.
In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine
Describing the old cross as stained with divine blood and portraying its wondrous beauty.
A wondrous beauty I see
Expressing a profound appreciation for the beauty seen in the stained cross.
For 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died
Highlighting that Jesus suffered and died on the cross for the purpose of pardoning and sanctifying believers.
To pardon and sanctify me
Emphasizing the personal significance of Jesus' sacrifice for the speaker.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterating the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Repeating the idea of laying down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirming the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Reiterating the hope of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown in the future.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
Declaring a commitment to remain true to the old rugged cross despite shame and reproach.
Its shame and reproach gladly bear
Expressing a willingness to bear the shame and reproach associated with the cross.
Then He'll call me some day to my home far away
Anticipating a future call to a heavenly home, where the glory of God will be shared forever.
Where His glory forever I'll share
Describing the eternal reward of sharing in God's glory in the speaker's future home.
So I'll cherish the old rugged cross
Reiterating the commitment to cherish the old rugged cross.
Till my trophies at last I lay down
Repeating the idea of laying down personal achievements in devotion to the cross.
I will cling to the old rugged cross
Reaffirming the determination to cling to the old rugged cross.
And exchange it some day for a crown
Reiterating the hope of exchanging the cross for a heavenly crown in the future.
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