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.
Thomas Hastings
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.
Lyrics Page
Rock of Ages
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Jun 14, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Amy Grant and Vince Gill perform the classic hymn "Rock of Ages," a song that expresses complete dependence on Christ's sacrifice for salvation. The lyrics emphasize that human effort cannot atone for sin; only Jesus' blood and water from His side can cleanse and save. The song reflects on the cross as the only refuge, pleading for grace and purity. It also looks toward death and judgment, trusting in Christ as the eternal shelter. This hymn is rooted in the theology of substitutionary atonement and grace alone.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team