old rugged cross HYMN – 1 [Autosaved].pptx

hymnal

1. HYMN – 1: THE OLD RUGGED CROSS The Old Rugged Cross" is a hymn celebrating the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, specifically His crucifixion, which is seen as a powerful symbol of redemption and salvation. Written by George Bennard in 1912, it expresses the writer's deep love and devotion to Christ and his willingness to bear the shame and suffering associated with the Cross. 

2. George Bennard in 1912 https://hymnary.org/person/Bennard_George

3. Meaning: The hymn portrays the Cross as an "emblem of suffering and shame". This reflects the historical reality of crucifixion, a brutal method of execution used by the Romans.  

4. Despite the suffering, the hymn emphasizes the cross's significance as a symbol of God's love and grace. It highlights that Jesus "suffered and died to pardon and sanctify me," offering forgiveness and spiritual cleansing. 

5. The hymn expresses the hope that is found in Christ's sacrifice. It suggests that those who cling to the cross, even in the face of adversity, will one day be rewarded with eternal life and glory. 

6. Story Behind the Hymn: Bennard wrote the hymn during a period of personal spiritual reflection and struggle, as he contemplated the meaning of the cross and the apostle Paul's words about sharing in Christ's sufferings. 

7. For Bennard , the Cross was not just a historical event but a personal experience of faith. He saw it as a symbol of God's love and a reminder of his own sins and need for salvation. 

8. The hymn reflects a journey from the initial perception of the cross as a symbol of shame to a recognition of its beauty and power. It is a testament to the transformative power of faith in Christ and His sacrifice

9. In essence, "The Old Rugged Cross" is a powerful expression of faith, hope, and love centered around the central Christian belief of the cross as a symbol of redemption and salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 

10. HYMN – 2. MAN OF SORROW, WHAT A NAME The hymn was written by Philip Bliss, a gifted hymn writer and evangelist, and his wife. Sadly, his life was cut short in a train crash in 1876, not long after the hymn was published. 

11. Philip Paul Bliss Lyrics, Songs, and Albums | Genius Philip Bliss, 1975

12. Meaning and Story Behind the Hymn: The hymn's lyrics are deeply rooted in Isaiah's prophecy of the "suffering servant" (Isaiah 52-53), which foreshadows the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.   

13. The hymn portrays Jesus as a "Man of Sorrows," acknowledging His suffering, rejection, and death on the Cross

14. It emphasizes the concept of Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity's sins, leading to redemption and forgiveness.  The hymn also celebrates Jesus's resurrection, ascension, and His future return as a glorious King

15. Personal Application: The hymn allows for a personal reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus and its impact on one's life, as seen in stanza 2: "in my place condemned He stood, sealed my pardon with His blood".   

16. In essence, "Man of Sorrow, What a Name" is a powerful hymn that explores the depth and breadth of Jesus's love, sacrifice, and ultimate victory, all while reminding us of the personal impact of His work on our lives. 

17. HYMN – 3. JESUS, KEEP ME NEAR THE CROSS. Author The hymn was written by Fanny Crosby, who was blind from childhood.  “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross" is a Christian hymn that encourages believers to remain close to the image and memory of Jesus's sacrifice on the Cross. The hymn emphasizes the healing and grace available through the Cross and calls for constant reflection on Christ's atoning work. It also points to the hope of eternal rest in God's presence beyond earthly struggles. 

18. Fanny Crosby https://www.hymndex.com/fanny-j-crosby/

19. Meaning and Story Behind The Hymn. The hymn highlights the Cross as a "precious fountain" and a "healing stream," emphasizing the restorative and healing power available through Christ's sacrifice.

20. The hymn encourages believers to actively remember and reflect on the events at the Cross, understanding that the Cross is the foundation of their salvation and a constant source of hope and strength. 

21. The hymn speaks of "rest beyond the river," signifying the hope of eternal life and peace in God's presence .  The hymn's themes of remembrance, salvation through Christ's sacrifice, and hope for eternal life are rooted in Biblical teachings. 

22. Stanza Breakdown Stanza 1: Focuses on the Cross as a source of healing and grace, emphasizing the "precious fountain" and "healing stream" from Calvary.  Stanza 2: Highlights the need for salvation and the role of the "Bright and Morning Star" (Jesus) in guiding and illuminating believers. 

23. Stanza 3: Invites believers to "bring its scenes before me," encouraging constant reflection on Christ's sacrifice and the shadow of the Cross falling on their daily lives.  Stanza 4 : Looks forward to "rest beyond the river," symbolizing eternal rest and peace in God's presence.   

24. HYMN – 4. THERE IS A FOUNTAIN FILLED WITH BLOOD Auth or . The hymn was written by William Cowper, a renowned English poet and hymn writer, in the late 18th century.  

25. William Cowper in the 18 th Century https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/william-cowper-poet.html

26. Story Behind The Hymn.   Cowper struggled with severe mental illness and depression throughout his life, including periods of suicidal ideation.   

27. After a period of intense despair and a suicide attempt, he was admitted to a mental asylum and underwent treatment. During his recovery, he found solace and faith in the Bible and the teachings of Christianity.

28. Cowper's personal struggles and conversion experience deeply informed the hymn's message of hope and forgiveness through the blood of Christ. 

29. Meaning : The hymn emphasizes the power of Christ's blood to wash away all sin and guilt. It offers a message of hope and redemption for those who are burdened by sin and despair. Cowper's own journey of faith and healing is reflected in the hymn's heartfelt lyrics. 

30. Biblical Basis: The hymn draws upon the biblical imagery of the "fountain opened" in Zechariah 13:1, which speaks of a cleansing power to wash away sin. The hymn expresses the profound power of the blood of Jesus Christ to cleanse and redeem humanity from sin. 

31. The hymn's meaning is deeply rooted in biblical imagery and personal experiences, particularly those of its author, William Cowper.  The hymn emphasizes that this cleansing power is available to all who believe and trust in Jesus. 

32. HYMN – 5. I GAVE MY LIFE FOR THEE Author . The hymn was written by Frances Havergal

33. Frances Havergal https://www.hymnologyarchive.com/frances-ridley-havergal

34. Meaning In the hymn, Frances Havergal  imagines Christ speaking, and He says, “I gave My life for thee” (1). Then, the focus of the hymn turns to what our response should be.  If the Lord Jesus loved us enough to do that for us, should we not love Him in return  

35. Miss Havergal’s hymn acknowledges what Jesus Christ gave up for us. He was the greatest example of generosity that the world has ever known. As the refrain varies with each verse, we read how Christ gave His life, left all, bore all, and brings gifts for us His children. The hymn closes with a challenge : “What hast thou brought to Me?”

36. Generosity  is “realizing that all I have belongs to God and using it for His purposes.” Jesus gave everything for you. What have you given to Him and others in return for what has been given to you? Generosity is more than giving money. God has given you time, talents, and energy, and He delights when you use them for His purposes. Ask God where He wants you to invest cheerfully.

37. HYMN – 6 JESUS PAID IT ALL Author The hymn was written by Elvina Hall in 1865 as a response to her gratitude for salvation through Jesus. 

38. Elvina Hall https://www.hymndex.com/elvina-hall/

39. Meaning : The hymn "Jesus Paid It All" emphasizes the Christian belief that Jesus's sacrifice on the Cross fully atoned for humanity's sins, making redemption possible.  It emphasizes that this act was a complete payment, covering all sins, and that Christians are now washed clean and complete in Christ.

40. The hymn directly references Jesus's crucifixion as the ultimate act of payment for humanity's sins. It highlights the concept of atonement, where Jesus's death on the cross atoned for human wrongdoing, making forgiveness and reconciliation with God possible. 

41. The hymn speaks of redemption, suggesting that through Jesus's sacrifice, Christians are freed from the burden of sin and receive forgiveness and a new life. 

42. It acknowledges human weakness and dependence on Jesus for strength and salvation, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone.  The hymn conveys the idea that believers are "complete in Him," finding righteousness and fulfillment through Christ's sacrifice. 

43. HYMN – 7. IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL Author “It Is Well with My Soul" is a Christian hymn written by Horatio Spafford after a series of tragedies, including the death of his four daughters in a shipwreck. 

44. Horatio Spafford http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmvnE6erj6I

45. Meaning: The hymn's meaning lies in finding peace and assurance in God's love and provision, even amidst profound suffering and loss. The hymn conveys the message that even in difficult times, one can find peace and comfort in God's grace and faithfulness.

46. It emphasizes that God's love and protection are always present, regardless of life's challenges. The lyrics highlight the assurance that Christ has regarded the believer's "helpless estate" and shed His blood for them. 

47. Story Behind The Hymn: The story behind it is a testament to faith and resilience, even in the face of overwhelming grief.  Horatio Spafford, a businessman and lawyer, experienced a string of tragedies, including the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and his family's financial ruin.  

48. His wife, Anna, and their four daughters were aboard the SS Ville du Havre when it sank in a collision on the Atlantic, resulting in the loss of all four daughters. 

49. As Spafford traveled to join his grieving wife, he reportedly wrote the hymn as he passed over the spot where the shipwreck had occurred.  The hymn became a source of comfort and inspiration for Spafford and many others, and it continues to be a powerful message of hope and faith.