I love this song…
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee;
let the water and the blood,
from thy wounded side which flowed,
be of sin the double cure;
save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labors of my hands
can fulfill thy law’s commands;
could my zeal no respite know,
could my tears forever flow,
all for sin could not atone;
thou must save, and thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring,
simply to the cross I cling;
naked, come to thee for dress;
helpless, look to thee for grace;
foul, I to the fountain fly;
wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
when mine eyes shall close in death,
when I soar to worlds unknown,
see thee on thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee.
Augustus M. Toplady, 1740-1778
Indeed, a great, Christ-centered hymn Chris.
This was John Charles Ryle’s favorite hymn, and was sung at his funeral back in 1900.
http://jcrylequotes.com/2010/08/26/j-c-ryles-favorite-hymn-rock-of-ages/
That’s very interesting Erik, I didn’t know that. I really appreciate your blog brother, it has definitely taken my interest in Ryle to another level, and made me want to read and study him and his work much more in depth.
I trust your desire to read Ryle will be a huge aid and blessing in your walk with Christ.
Enjoy the writings of Ryle Chris.