Lift High the Cross is a powerful Christian hymn that calls believers to proclaim the victory of Christ and lift high His cross as a sign of salvation. Centered on themes of worship, discipleship, and the triumph of Christ’s love, this song encourages all to follow Him and spread His message to the world.
CHORUS
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
VERSE 1
Come, Christians, follow where our Savior trod,
our King victorious, Christ, the Son of God.
All newborn servants of the Crucified
Bear on their brow the seal of Christ who died. Refrain
VERSE 2
O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree,
Your death has brought us life eternally.
So shall our song of triumph ever be:
Praise to the Crucified for victory.
Story Behind the Song
In 1887, Anglican priest George W. Kitchin composed “Lift High the Cross” for a festival organized by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel at Winchester Cathedral. The hymn featured eleven stanzas and was intended as a processional song to inspire missionary zeal. [1]
In 1916, Anglican priest Michael R. Newbolt revised Kitchin’s original hymn, refining the lyrics and structure. This updated version was included in the 1916 Supplement to Hymns Ancient and Modern, paired with the tune “Crucifer,” composed by Sir Sydney Nicholson. The collaboration of Newbolt and Nicholson transformed the hymn into a powerful processional piece, emphasizing the call to “lift high the cross” and proclaim Christ’s love.[2]
The hymn gained prominence in England and was later introduced to American congregations in 1974, when it was published in the United States. Since then, “Lift High the Cross” has become a cherished hymn in various Christian denominations, often sung during Lent, Holy Week, and as a processional or recessional in worship services. [3]
The enduring appeal of “Lift High the Cross” lies in its triumphant melody and compelling call to discipleship, urging believers to carry the message of the cross into the world.
Lift High the Cross
Lift high the cross declares the central message of the Christian faith—exalting Christ and proclaiming His victory. Jesus said, “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself” (John 12:32). The cross is not a symbol of defeat but the means of salvation.
Paul affirms, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14). Worship and witness are inseparable in this call to lift high the cross, pointing all people to the love of Christ.
The love of Christ proclaim reflects the believer’s mission to share the gospel. Romans 5:8 states, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The love of Christ is revealed through His sacrifice, and proclaiming it is the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Worship is not only personal devotion but a testimony that calls others to adore His sacred name. Paul writes, “For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved” (2 Corinthians 2:15). The song captures this truth, urging believers to proclaim Christ until all the world acknowledges Him as Lord.
Your death has brought us life eternally affirms the power of the cross. Jesus bore the penalty of sin so that all who believe might receive eternal life. 1 Peter 2:24 declares, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.”
This victory over sin and death is the foundation of Christian faith. John 3:16 confirms that through Christ’s sacrifice, “whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” The cross is not only the means of salvation but the reason for unending worship.
Come, Christians, follow where our Savior trod is a call to discipleship. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). Following Christ means walking in obedience and surrender. Believers are not only called to adore the crucified King but to bear His mark.
Paul reminds us, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). Worship is more than words; it is a life that reflects the cross.
Exalting Christ, proclaiming His love, and walking in His footsteps define true worship. The cross is not only to be lifted high in song but in the lives of those redeemed by its power.
How to download free PowerPoint worship songs?
Register or log in to download the free PowerPoint files for Lift High the Cross, along with all other free resources available. This song is ready for free download in the box below—simply click the ellipsis icon (three dots) next to the PowerPoint file or hover over it to start your download. Free users can only download a limited number of files each day, but you can remove restrictions by purchasing the Amen Vault Lifetime Download Access and Updates plan.
✅ About Amen Vault
✅ Amen Vault Premium Access
✅ Add to Cart Amen Vault
Bible Readings for Worship
- Bible Verses on Pursuing Our Dreams
- Jesus Our Living Hope
- Like a Tree Planted by Streams of Water (Psalm 1:1-6)
More Free Downloads
- When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Hymn)
- Nothing But The Blood (Hymn)
- We Cry Holy (Paul Wilbur)
- Hallelujah For the Cross (Chris McClarney)
- Man Of Sorrows (Hillsong)
Related themes you might want to include Lift High The Cross The Love Of Christ in your list of songs for worship that centered around Love of God, Power of God, Presence of God
Lift High The Cross The Love Of Christ lyrics and music by George W. Kitchin, (1887) Public Domain
Have any encouraging thoughts or questions about the lyrics of Lift High the Cross? Feel free to share your comments below!
