The phrase ‘near the cross’ comes from the beloved hymn by Fanny Crosby and signifies a believer’s deep desire to live in constant fellowship with Jesus Christ. It represents a life centered on His atoning sacrifice, finding salvation, peace, and spiritual strength by remaining close to the redemptive power of the cross.
Some hymns do more than just echo in our ears; they resonate deep within our spirits and guide us to the heart of our faith. “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” is one such hymn. For generations, this beloved melody has ministered to countless souls with its simple yet profound plea. The song draws us to the central truth of salvation: the immense sacrifice made for us by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As God incarnate, He willingly laid down His life and triumphed over death through His glorious resurrection, fulfilling the promise of Scripture (John 3:16).
This article explores the rich meaning woven into this cherished hymn. We will begin by uncovering the inspiring life of its author, Fanny Crosby, whose profound faith shone brightly through her earthly challenges. Then, we will delve into the powerful lyrics of “Near the Cross.” By examining their biblical roots, we will see why remaining “near the cross” is more than a poetic phrase. It is a daily spiritual imperative for every believer who seeks the cleansing, surrender, and hope found only in Christ.
This hymn continues to hold a prominent place in Christian worship today because its message is unwavering. It reminds us that the cross of Christ is the focal point of our redemption, the source of our strength, and the promise of eternal life. Let us rediscover the enduring power of staying close to the cross, where grace flows freely and God’s boundless love is revealed to all who believe.
Why Do We Still Sing ‘Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross’ Today?
The timeless hymn “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of believers worldwide. Its enduring popularity stems not just from its beautiful melody or poetic lyrics, but from how it speaks to universal spiritual truths and reminds us of our faith’s unwavering foundation.
In the modern Christian walk, this beloved song serves several vital purposes. It draws our focus back to the Gospel’s core while offering comfort, a call to devotion, and a constant anchor in a changing world.
The Enduring Power of Salvation’s Message
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The cross of Jesus Christ stands as the central event in human history, representing God’s ultimate act of love and redemption. Because this truth remains constant through all generations, the hymn’s message never grows old.
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When we sing “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross,” we affirm our salvation by proclaiming Christ’s sacrificial death and glorious resurrection—the very acts that deliver us from sin and death. As the Apostle Paul declared, “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
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This hymn helps us acknowledge our deep need for Christ’s atoning work. We are continually reminded that the precious blood shed for us is the only pathway to eternal life with God, a divine truth that sustains our faith.
A Daily Call to Devotion and Surrender
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Modern life presents countless distractions that can pull our attention away from spiritual priorities. In response, the hymn serves as a powerful spiritual compass, redirecting our gaze back to Jesus.
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Singing “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” becomes a daily prayer for humility and renewed commitment. Through it, we ask for strength to deny ourselves and follow Christ’s example, as He Himself taught: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
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It grounds us in the reality of discipleship, reminding us that we are called to a life of sacrifice and dedication. The cross, representing both suffering and triumph, illustrates the true cost of following Christ.
Finding Comfort, Hope, and Strength
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In a life full of trials, sorrows, and uncertainties, the cross offers profound comfort. It reminds us that Jesus understands our pain because He bore the ultimate suffering for our sake.
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Being “near the cross” means drawing close to God’s presence and finding rest in His finished work. The hymn echoes the tender invitation of Jesus: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
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The hymn also instills hope, assuring us that our struggles are not in vain. Through Christ’s victory on the cross, we receive eternal life and the promise of His unfailing presence—a hope that empowers us to face each new day.
Therefore, “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” remains a cherished hymn because it powerfully reinforces the identity and mission of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. He offered Himself wholly for our redemption, and His sacrifice ensures our eternal future. The cross is not just a historical event; it is a living truth that transforms lives and draws us closer to God. This powerful message affirms Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who died for our sins and rose again, offering salvation to all who believe. His authority, rooted in Scripture, is the very bedrock of our faith.
What is the meaning of ‘Jesus, keep me near the cross’?
The beloved hymn “Near the Cross” is a profound prayer—a heartfelt plea to remain close to the central truth of our faith: the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ for our sins. Its timeless message calls us to the very heart of God’s redemptive plan, reminding us of the endless grace found there.
The Cross as Our Source of Salvation
To be “near the cross” is to grasp its saving power by accepting Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. The cross is not just a historical event; it is the focal point of God’s love for humanity. Through His crucifixion, Jesus, the Son of God, bore the weight of our sins, paying a penalty we could never pay ourselves.
As Romans 5:8 declares, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This divine act of love offers us salvation, providing forgiveness, eternal life, and reconciliation with our Heavenly Father. This salvation is a gift, freely given to all who have faith in Jesus Christ.
- Jesus’ Sacrifice: He willingly laid down His life.
- Atonement for Sin: His blood covers all unrighteousness.
- Gift of Eternal Life: We receive new life through Him.
The ‘Precious Fountain’: Cleansing from Sin (Zechariah 13:1)
The hymn beautifully speaks of a “precious fountain” flowing from Immanuel’s veins, an image that powerfully connects to the cleansing power of Christ’s blood. The prophet Zechariah foreshadowed this divine provision, writing, “On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity” (Zechariah 13:1).
This “fountain” is a spiritual reality representing the complete washing away of our sins. When we confess and turn to Jesus, His blood offers a purification that is not temporary, but eternal and absolute. Through this cleansing, we are made holy in God’s sight. His transforming grace makes us new creatures in Christ.
A Symbol of Daily Surrender and Hope (Galatians 6:14)
Being “near the cross” extends beyond our initial salvation, calling us to daily discipleship. It means embracing a life of surrender to Jesus Christ, dying to our own desires to live for His glory. The Apostle Paul powerfully expressed this in Galatians 6:14: “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”
Paul’s words reveal how the cross symbolizes our separation from the world’s values and our commitment to Christ’s kingdom. Staying near the cross fosters humility and gratitude, reminding us that our hope is rooted in Jesus’ finished work. This daily surrender brings true freedom and an unwavering hope that transcends all earthly circumstances.
- Daily Discipleship: A continuous walk with Christ.
- Dying to Self: Renouncing worldly desires for God’s will.
- Unwavering Hope: Finding strength and peace in Jesus’ victory.
Who Was Fanny Crosby, the Author of ‘Near the Cross’?
A Life Devoted to God Through Hymnody
Fanny J. Crosby was a remarkable woman and one of history’s most prolific hymn writers, whose life powerfully demonstrates unwavering faith. Born in 1820, she lost her eyesight as an infant due to improper medical treatment. However, this early challenge did not define her spirit; instead, it shaped her profound dependence on Christ.
Despite her blindness, Fanny Crosby possessed an extraordinary gift for composing poetic verse. From a young age, she embraced her circumstances, famously declaring, “It seems to me that I have been wonderfully blessed. If I had a choice, I would still choose to remain blind… for when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior” [1]. It was this deep faith that fueled her entire ministry.
Throughout her long life, Fanny Crosby wrote over 8,000 hymns, many of which are still sung in churches worldwide [2]. Several aspects of her devotion stand out:
- She often composed several hymns in a single day.
- Her hymns focused on the grace of God and the redemption found in Jesus.
- She partnered with many prominent composers of her era.
- Her words brought comfort and hope to countless believers.
Her life was a testament to Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Because Fanny Crosby sought God above all else, her legacy continues to enrich Christian worship today.
The Divine Inspiration Behind the Hymn
The creation of the beloved classic “Near the Cross” beautifully illustrates divine inspiration at work. In 1869, Fanny Crosby collaborated with the gifted composer William H. Doane, who presented her with a new melody and simply asked, “What does this sound like?”
As was her custom, Fanny Crosby prayed for guidance while listening intently to the tune. As she did, she felt a profound connection to the sacrificial love of Jesus. With the Holy Spirit moving in her heart, the powerful words for “Near the Cross” began to flow within minutes.
The simplicity and depth of the lyrics resonated immediately, speaking directly to the believer’s need for the cross. Her inspiration drew from several key themes:
- A focus on Jesus’ atoning sacrifice, which represents the ultimate act of love (John 3:16).
- The desire for constant fellowship with Christ and to remain close to His saving power.
- The hope of eternal life, secured through His death and resurrection.
Fanny Crosby understood the profound meaning of Jesus’ work on Calvary—that salvation flows from His wounds and true peace is found in His presence. Therefore, “Near the Cross” became a timeless expression of evangelical truth. It continues to remind us of the central message of our faith: Jesus Christ is Lord, who died for our sins and conquered death for our eternal redemption (Romans 10:9-10).
What are the Full Lyrics to ‘Near the Cross’?
Penned by the prolific Fanny Crosby, “Near the Cross” is a cherished hymn that beautifully articulates our desire to remain close to Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. The song reminds us that through His atoning work, we find endless grace, salvation, and eternal hope. In this way, the timeless hymn serves as a poignant prayer and a declaration of dependence on our Lord.
Reflect on the profound message of “Near the Cross” with the full lyrics below:
Verse 1
- Jesus, keep me near the cross,
- There a precious fountain,
- Free to all, a healing stream,
- Flows from Calv’ry’s mountain.
Chorus
- In the cross, in the cross,
- Be my glory ever;
- Till my raptured soul shall find
- Rest beyond the river.
Verse 2
- Near the cross, a trembling soul,
- Love and mercy found me;
- There the Bright and Morning Star
- Shed His beams around me.
Chorus
- In the cross, in the cross,
- Be my glory ever;
- Till my raptured soul shall find
- Rest beyond the river.
Verse 3
- Near the cross, O Lamb of God,
- Bring its scenes before me;
- Help me walk from day to day
- With its shadow o’er me.
Chorus
- In the cross, in the cross,
- Be my glory ever;
- Till my raptured soul shall find
- Rest beyond the river.
Verse 4
- Near the cross I’ll watch and wait,
- Hoping, trusting ever,
- Till I reach the golden strand
- Just beyond the river.
Chorus
- In the cross, in the cross,
- Be my glory ever;
- Till my raptured soul shall find
- Rest beyond the river.
What Does the Bible Say About Staying Near the Cross?
The Message of the Cross (1 Corinthians 1:18)
The Bible teaches the profound importance of the cross, a message that strikes many as foolish. For believers, however, it is the very power of God. The apostle Paul captures this truth perfectly: “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
This verse highlights a crucial spiritual divide. To unbelievers who see a crucified Messiah as weak or absurd, God’s wisdom in the cross is incomprehensible. In contrast, those who accept Christ understand its divine significance. For them, the cross is not just an ancient execution method but the ultimate representation of God’s love, justice, and mercy—the very cornerstone of our salvation.
Staying near the cross means holding fast to this central truth. It serves as a constant reminder of what Jesus accomplished when His sacrifice broke the power of sin and death, granting us new life. The cross is therefore our anchor in a chaotic world, the place where God’s strength is most profoundly revealed.
Drawing Near to God with a Sincere Heart (Hebrews 10:22)
The cross grants us direct access to God. While people once needed priests to approach the divine, Christ’s sacrifice allows us to draw near ourselves. The book of Hebrews urges us to embrace this immense privilege: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).
Drawing near requires a sincere heart, which means approaching God with genuine repentance and faith in Jesus. We do not come based on our own merit, but through the precious blood of Christ. His sacrifice cleanses us from guilt and purifies our conscience, allowing us to approach our Heavenly Father without fear. This intimate relationship is a gift made possible only by the cross.
Moreover, staying near the cross fosters this closeness with God. By reminding us of His unwavering faithfulness and reinforcing our confidence in His saving power, it encourages us to walk in daily communion with Him. This practice keeps our hearts receptive to His guidance and significantly strengthens our spiritual walk.
Finding Rest in Christ’s Finished Work (Matthew 11:28-30)
Life can be heavy, and many people carry the burdens of sin, worry, and despair. In response to this weariness, Jesus extends a gracious invitation to all: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
This rest flows directly from Christ’s finished work on the cross. Because Jesus paid the full price for our sins and completed everything necessary for our salvation, we no longer need to earn it. We can lay down our burdens at His feet and trust in His perfect provision. This brings a true peace to our souls—a rest that the world cannot offer.
Staying near the cross means embracing this divine rest by trusting completely in Jesus. As we surrender our anxieties and accept His loving leadership, we discover that His “yoke” is not oppressive but liberating. His burden is light because He carries our heaviest loads for us. This promise of rest is a continuous blessing that flows from His eternal victory on the cross.
Frequently Asked Questions about ‘Near the Cross’
What is the meaning behind the hymn ‘Jesus, keep me near the cross’?
The hymn “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” is a prayer expressing a believer’s desire to remain spiritually close to Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. At its core, the hymn is about:
- Remembering Our Salvation: The cross is where Jesus bore our sins. To stay “near the cross” means to never forget His sacrifice for our redemption (1 Peter 2:24).
- Embracing Cleansing and Forgiveness: The “precious fountain” in the hymn symbolizes the blood of Jesus. This blood, representing God’s constant grace, cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7).
- Living a Life of Surrender: To be near the cross is to daily crucify our old selves. This means letting go of worldly desires to embrace Christ’s will, which leads to a life of humble obedience and devotion (Galatians 2:20).
- Finding Hope and Strength: While the cross is a symbol of suffering, it is ultimately our greatest source of hope. It assures us of God’s immense love and eternal life, providing strength for our daily walk (John 3:16).
Ultimately, the hymn calls believers to live in constant remembrance of Christ’s work on the cross. It is a reminder to draw near to God with a sincere heart and find rest in the salvation He provides (Hebrews 10:22).
Who wrote the original ‘Near the Cross’ song?
The beloved hymn “Near the Cross” was written in 1869 by Fanny Crosby, a prolific American hymn writer. Crosby is one of the most celebrated hymnists in history [3].
Though she was blind from infancy, Crosby wrote over 8,000 hymns and gospel songs during her lifetime. Many of these works remain cherished in churches worldwide.
The music for “Near the Cross” was composed by William Howard Doane. He was a prominent industrialist who frequently collaborated with Crosby on her hymns.
Where can I find the lyrics and chords for ‘Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross’?
The full lyrics for “Near the Cross” are provided later in this article under the heading, “What are the Full Lyrics to ‘Near the Cross’?”
For those looking for chords to play the hymn, several reputable resources are available:
- Hymnals and Songbooks: Official church hymnals and songbooks often include chords for worship music.
- Christian Music Websites: Many online platforms dedicated to Christian worship music provide sheet music and chord charts.
- Online Hymn Databases: Websites like Hymnary.org offer comprehensive information, often including musical notation and chord suggestions [4].
When searching, try to find versions that accurately represent the traditional melody and harmony. This helps maintain the hymn’s reverent spirit during worship.