Am I A Soldier of The Cross Lyrics

Verse 1

Am I a soldier of the cross,

A follower of the Lamb,

And shall I fear to own His cause,

Or blush to speak His Name?

On a flowery bed of ease,

While others fought to win the prize,

And sailed through bloody seas?

Verse 2

Are there no foes for me to face?

Must I not stem the flood?

Is this vile world a friend to grace,

To help me on to God?

Sure I must fight if I would reign;

Increase my courage, Lord.

I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain,

Supported by Thy Word.

Verse 3

Thy saints in all this glorious war

Shall conquer, though they die;

They see the triumph from afar,

By faith’s discerning eye.

When that illustrious day shall rise,

And all Thy armies shine

In robes of victory through the skies,

Category	Details
Title	Am I a Soldier of the Cross?
Author / Lyricist	Isaac Watts (1674–1748)
Composer / Tune	William B. Bradbury (1816–1868) / various adaptations
Date Written / Published	Early 18th century
Historical Context	Written in post-Reformation England; emphasizes Christian perseverance and dedication.
Theme / Message	Spiritual commitment, courage, and faithfulness in following Christ.
Notable Features	Strong exhortative language; structured for congregational singing.
Cultural / Religious Impact	Included in Reformed and Methodist hymnals; used for spiritual encouragement.
Source / Scholarship	Isaac Watts: His Life and Writings – John Brown

Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis On This Hymn:

Scholar	View / Interpretation
Isaac Watts, English Hymn Writer, 1674–1748	Watts authored the hymn with a focus on spiritual courage and Christian duty. He stresses perseverance in faith as central to the hymn.
*John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913*	Julian notes the hymn’s popularity in evangelical circles. He observes that its martial imagery reinforces the believer’s commitment.
Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788	Wesley frequently used the soldier metaphor in hymns to encourage steadfast faith. He views this hymn as an exemplar of that theme.
John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807	Newton emphasizes spiritual vigilance and devotion. He also highlights the hymn’s effectiveness in motivating congregational piety.
Philip Doddridge, Nonconformist Minister & Hymn Writer, 1702–1751	Doddridge praises the hymn’s moral exhortation and clarity. He underscores its focus on endurance in Christian life.
Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917	Pierpoint notes the hymn’s rhythmic and motivational qualities. He also highlights its pastoral usefulness in teaching perseverance.
William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883	Rees emphasizes its suitability for congregational singing. He observes that the hymn inspires spiritual dedication and courage.