Isaac Watts was an English singer and hymn writer known for shaping early Christian music. He wrote over 750 hymns, many of which are still sung today in churches around the world.
His most famous works include When I Survey the Wondrous Cross and Joy to the World. Watts was praised for adding emotion and personal feeling to religious songs, which was rare in his time.
His music brought a fresh voice to worship and left a lasting mark on church singing.
About the Song
At the Cross is a well-known hymn that talks about Jesus dying on the cross. It’s loved for its simple words and deep message of faith. The words are full of gratitude and faith. Many sing it to remember His grace and mercy.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1707 |
| Writers | Isaac Watts (lyrics), Ralph E. Hudson (chorus) |
At the Cross Lyrics
Verse 1
Alas! And did my Savior bleed
And did my Sovereign die?
Would He devote that sacred head
For such a worm as I?
Chorus
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
Verse 2
Was it for crimes that I had done
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! Grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!
Chorus
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
Verse 3
Well might the sun in darkness hide
And shut his glories in,
When Christ, the mighty Maker died,
For man the creature’s sin.
Chorus
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
Verse 4
Thus might I hide my blushing face
While His dear cross appears,
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt my eyes to tears.
Chorus
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
Verse 5
But drops of grief can ne’er repay
The debt of love I owe:
Here, Lord, I give my self away
’Tis all that I can do.
Chorus
At the cross, at the cross
Where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
The Story Behind the Hymn At the Cross
The hymn At the Cross by Isaac Watts was first written as part of his 1707 collection Hymns and Spiritual Songs.
The original title was Alas! and Did My Saviour Bleed, and it reflected Watts’ deep emotions about the crucifixion of Jesus.
Watts wrote this hymn to express personal sorrow and awe at the sacrifice Jesus made. He wanted people to not only sing about faith but to feel it in their hearts.
Similar Songs Like At the Cross
If you enjoyed At the Cross, you might also enjoy these songs. These songs help people reflect on faith, grace, and the meaning of Jesus’ death in a very personal way:
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: Also written by Isaac Watts, this hymn reflects deeply on Jesus’ sacrifice and the meaning of the cross.
- The Old Rugged Cross: A heartfelt hymn that talks about loving the cross and holding on to faith through life’s trials.
- Nothing But the Blood: This song focuses on the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood and how it brings forgiveness.
- Jesus Paid It All: A gentle hymn that reminds believers that Jesus took care of every sin, and we owe it all to Him.
Similar Hymn Writers Like Isaac Watts
You can listen to more artists similar to Isaac Watts, known for their work in Christian and hymn music:
- Charles Wesley
Genre: Christian Hymns
Top Albums: Hymns and Sacred Poems, Love Divine - Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Gospel Hymns
Top Albums: Blessed Assurance, Songs of Faith and Hope - William Cowper
Genre: Hymns / Spiritual Songs
Top Albums: Olney Hymns (with John Newton) - John Newton
Genre: Christian Hymns
Top Albums: Olney Hymns
Frequently Asked Questions
What Bible Verses Connect with At the Cross?
Verses like Isaiah 53:5 and Romans 5:8 reflect the themes of sacrifice and love found in the hymn.
What Makes At the Cross Special Compared to Other Hymns?
Its mix of personal emotion and deep faith makes it feel heartfelt and timeless.
Are there Modern Versions of At the Cross?
Yes, many gospel and worship artists have recorded updated versions while keeping the original message.
