Lift High the Cross

1. Explain the pain of being tortured to death on the cross.

Usually the crucified was tied to the cross. In Jesus’ case, he was nailed to the cross. Plus, he wore a thorn of crowns and his back was torn apart from the scourging. These are things that other “criminals” would not have had to endure. The pain of the cross comes as the crucified slowing begins to asphyxiate because he cannot exhale all the CO2 from his lungs. All the weight is on the crucified’s arms, lungs and chest. He would have to push up from his legs in order to catch his breath. But this caused all new pains throughout his body.

2. If Christ’s death on a torturous cross was a horror beyond compare, why would we want to “lift high the cross”?

We lift high the cross because this is where Christ went into battle against the unholy trinity of sin, death and the devil. It was on and with the tool of the cross that Christ conquered our greatest enemies.

3. How would you describe the melody of this hymn? Why is that melody strangely fitting?

Jesus' stunning sacrifice requires a response. And that's exactly what "Lift High the Cross" provides. With a triumphant melody, the hymn calls Christians to bring the story of the cross to the entire world. The melody of this hymn, along with its words, carry with it the theme of marching into battle. We are to "lift high the cross" for the world to see, so that they might come and adore Christ the victorious King.

4. In ancient wars, armies became trained and adopted set formations. Each regiment’s ability to keep its formation was potentially critical to its, and therefore its army’s, success. In the chaos of battle, caused by dust, smoke and commotion, soldiers needed to be able to determine where their regiment was. Regiments tended to adopt “flag guards” or “standard bearers,” composed of experienced or elite soldiers, who would lift high their regiment’s flag or colors. What insight does this military background give you into the imagery of this hymn?

We are all “flag guards” and “standard bearers” for Christ’s army. The standard we bear, though, is the cross of Christ. We are His elite and experienced soldiers, taking the fight to the devil on his turf. We lift high the cross to “follow where our captain trod” and “the hosts of God in conqu’ring ranks combine.”

5. Since the crucifixion event was one of such magnitude, it’s fitting that we take time to reflect on what happened there. This hymn celebrates the King and rejoices in His triumph over death. But the hymn also carries another message as well – one of action and outreach. What is it calling for Christians to do?

This hymns calls us to “lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim Till all the world adore his sacred name” We carry the message of the cross of Christ into the whole world so everyone will hear of Jesus’ sacrifice. It is a call to action, to spread the story. Not sit around and wait for people to come to us, but to go out to them.

6. Lent is properly a season of personal reflection upon our sin and the events of the cross. But this hymn also stirs us into action, to move from personal reflection to outreach. As our hymn reminds us, we need to carry the cross high, sharing our faith with those around us. What are some ways you can “lift high the cross” this week in your personal life?

Maybe you could say a daily prayer for unbelievers. Or perhaps you could briefly share with your next-door neighbor how Christ has impacted your life. Perhaps you get your children involved in some outreach ministry.  But whatever you choose to do, keep this hymn in mind. Singing about the cross is not just for Easter. Make it your daily pursuit to "Lift High the Cross."

7. What are specific times when this hymn might be used in a worship service?

This hymn could be used as a processional hymn while the processional cross is held high. In fact, this hymn “was intended to be used for a processional, with the following versicle to be said at the entrance into the chancel: V: God forbid that I should glory; R: Save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Christian Worship Handbook) The name for the tune is CRUCIFIER, appropriately taken from the one who carries a cross in ecclesiastical processions. This hymn is often used for a Missions or Evangelism themed service. It can also be used for a recessional from the church. It is a hymn that almost begs for the people to be standing, the organ to be majestic and to be accompanied with brass and tympani!