When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Theological Analysis
Watts's communion hymn is widely considered the greatest hymn in the English language. It is a deeply personal meditation on the cross that moves from contemplation to total surrender. The final stanza — "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all" — is among the most profound lines ever written.
✓ Theological Strengths
- Often ranked as the greatest English hymn
- Profoundly Christocentric — focused on the cross
- Teaches the proper response to the atonement: total surrender
- Rich theological language: 'Prince of glory died'
- Moves from meditation to self-sacrifice — demands action
AI Theological Check
Sign in to run AI theological analysis.
Chord Chart
Full Lyrics
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
This hymn is in the public domain.
Resources
No resources uploaded yet. Sign in to upload.
Community Discussion
Loading discussion...