The Old Rugged Cross
George Bennard's testimony of clinging to the cross of Christ.
Download PDFGeorge Bennard's testimony of clinging to the cross of Christ. Written by George Bennard (1913), set to the tune "Old Rugged Cross" by George Bennard.
Suggested pairing scripture
1 Corinthians 1:18
"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
Read 1 Corinthians 1:18 (KJV) aloud as a call to worship before the congregation sings "The Old Rugged Cross." It anchors the hymn in the Word from which it flows.
Read in contextWhen to sing this
Sing on Good Friday, during Holy Week reflections, and at the Lord's Supper as the congregation contemplates the cross.
Lyrics
Stanza 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.
Refrain: 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.
Stanza 3
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.
Stanza 4
In the 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.
Stanza 5
To the 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.
History & Background
Methodist evangelist George Bennard wrote both the words and music in 1912-1913 in Pokagon, Michigan, while reflecting on the meaning of the cross during a difficult ministry season. It quickly became one of the most popular gospel hymns of the 20th century.
Scripture Behind the Hymn
1 Corinthians 1:18
"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."Read in context
Galatians 6:14
"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."Read in context
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was The Old Rugged Cross written?
George Bennard wrote it in Pokagon, Michigan in 1912-1913 while serving as a Methodist evangelist.
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Related Reading
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Where to go next
Enjoyed "The Old Rugged Cross"? These pages pair well with it for worship planning.
- Browse the full hymnal libraryLyrics, authors and scripture pairings.Continue
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