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The Old Rugged Cross

George Bennard (1913) • English

Primary Scripture: Matthew 27:33-44

Verse 1

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, the emblem of suffering and shame; and I love that old cross where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain.

Chorus

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown.

Verse 2

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world, has a wondrous attraction for me; for the dear Lamb of God left his glory above to bear it to dark Calvary.

Chorus

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown.

Verse 3

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine, a wondrous beauty I see, for 'twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died, to pardon and sanctify me.

Chorus

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown.

Verse 4

To that old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear; then he'll call me some day to my home far away, where his glory forever I'll share.

Chorus

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown.

Scripture References

Reference 1

  • matthew 27:33-44

Reference 2

  • mark 15:22-32

Reference 3

  • luke 23:33-43

Reference 4

  • john 1:29

Reference 5

  • john 14:2-3

Reference 6

  • john 19:17-24

Reference 7

  • acts 2:22-24

Reference 8

  • 1-corinthians 1:22-25

Reference 9

  • galatians 6:14

Reference 10

  • philippians 2:8