Lyrics Page

The Old Rugged Cross

By Guy Penrod

2,874 views Jun 19, 2026 updated Verified editorial review

Guy Penrod sings the classic hymn 'The Old Rugged Cross,' a song that reflects on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. The lyrics express deep love and devotion to the cross, seeing it as a symbol of suffering and shame but also of redemption and hope. The singer cherishes the cross and looks forward to exchanging it for a crown in heaven. The song emphasizes the beauty of Christ's sacrifice, His willingness to leave glory to bear sin, and the promise of eternal life with Him. It is a heartfelt meditation on the meaning of the cross and the believer's response of faith and gratitude.

Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team

On a hill far away, stood an old rugged Cross

The emblem of suff'ring and shame

And I love that old Cross where the dearest and best

For a world of lost sinners was slain


So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross

Till my trophies at last I lay down

I will cling to the old rugged Cross

And exchange it some day for a crown


Oh, that old rugged Cross so despised by the world

Has a wondrous attraction for me

For the dear Lamb of God, left his Glory above

To bear it to dark Calvary


So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross

Till my trophies at last I lay down

I will cling to the old rugged Cross

And exchange it some day for a crown


In the old rugged Cross, stain'd with blood so divine

A wondrous beauty I see

For the dear Lamb of God, left his Glory above

To pardon and sanctify me


So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross

Till my trophies at last I lay down

I will cling to the old rugged Cross

And exchange it some day for a crown


To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true

Its shame and reproach gladly bear

Then He'll call me some day to my home far away

Where his glory forever I'll share


So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross

Till my trophies at last I lay down

I will cling to the old rugged Cross

And exchange it some day for a crown

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