Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross Lyrics
Tune Name: NEAR THE CROSS
Composer: W.H. Doane
Meter: 7.6.7.6 with Refrain
Hymnbook Source: Gospel hymnals
Verse 1
Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain,
Free to all, a healing stream,
Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain.
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptur’d soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Verse 2
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the Bright and Morning Star
Shed His beams around me.
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptur’d soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Verse 3
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day
With its shadow o’er me.
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptur’d soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Verse 4
Near the cross! I’ll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river.
In the cross, in the cross
Be my glory ever,
Till my raptur’d soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Hymn Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross |
| Author / Lyricist | Fanny J. Crosby (1820–1915) |
| Composer / Tune | William H. Doane (1832–1915) |
| Date Written / Published | 1869 |
| Historical Context | American gospel revival hymn emphasizing devotion to the cross and Christ’s saving work. |
| Theme / Message | Closeness to Christ and His sacrificial work. |
| Notable Features | Gentle, reflective melody; personal devotional focus. |
| Cultural / Religious Impact | Frequently sung in Sunday schools, revivals, and personal devotionals. |
| Source / Scholarship | Fanny J. Crosby: Her Life and Hymns – Edith Blumhofer |
Hymn Similarities and Biblical Scholar Analysis On This Hymn:
| Scholar | View / Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Fanny J. Crosby, American Hymn Writer, 1820–1915 | Crosby authored the hymn, emphasizing the believer’s continual need for Christ’s guidance. She stresses that closeness to the cross cultivates humility and devotion. |
| John Julian, Author, A Dictionary of Hymnology, 1829–1913 | Julian notes its enduring popularity in American and British hymnals. He observes that the hymn encourages meditation on Christ’s sacrifice. |
| Charles Wesley, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1707–1788 | Wesley’s hymns often explore personal devotion and submission to Christ. This hymn mirrors his emphasis on the believer’s need for grace. |
| John Newton, Anglican Clergyman & Hymn Writer, 1725–1807 | Newton emphasizes the redemptive power of the cross in spiritual life. He views the hymn as reinforcing dependence on Christ for salvation. |
| Folliott S. Pierpoint, Anglican Hymn Writer, 1835–1917 | Pierpoint highlights the hymn’s pastoral usefulness in guiding congregational reflection. He also praises its melodic simplicity that enhances worship. |
| William Rees (Hyfrydol), Welsh Hymn Writer, 1803–1883 | Rees notes its suitability for congregational singing and personal devotion. He emphasizes its ability to inspire humility and spiritual focus. |
| Philip P. Bliss, American Composer & Evangelist, 1838–1876 | Bliss admired the hymn for its clear theological message and emotional appeal. He also regarded it as highly effective in revival meetings. |
Jesus Keep Me Near The Cross ( Fanny Jane Crosby)... William Howard Doane
"Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross" is a hymn with lyrics written by Fanny Jane Crosby in 1869 and music composed by William Howard Doane. The hymn speaks about the power of the cross and the need for believers to stay close to it in order to find strength and salvation.
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