Am I A Soldier of The Cross Lyrics
Tune Name: ARLINGTON
Composer: Thomas A. Arne
Meter: CM (8.6.8.6)
Hymnbook Source: English hymnals
Verse 1
A follower of the Lamb,
And shall I fear to own His cause,
Or blush to speak His Name?
Must I be carried to the skies
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,
The glory shall be Thine.
Hymn Information
| 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. |
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