Rock of Ages.

My father came home from the second world war without a faith, despite his strong Anglican upbringing. My father had a great singing voice and I remember how he used to sing this hymn on occasion while he was working in his shed. The old hymn “Rock of Ages” has a rich history and carries a powerful spiritual message. It was written by Augustus Montague Toplady, an Anglican clergyman and hymn writer, in the 18th century.

The story behind “Rock of Ages” revolves around a personal encounter that Toplady had during a thunderstorm. In August 1776, he found himself taking shelter in a rocky crevice in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, England. While seeking refuge, he was struck by the contrast between his own vulnerability and the unyielding strength and stability of the rock that provided protection.

Inspired by this experience, Toplady penned the lyrics to “Rock of Ages” as a metaphorical reflection on God’s unwavering faithfulness and the salvation found in Jesus Christ. The hymn draws from biblical imagery, particularly the imagery of God as a Rock, as mentioned in various passages of Scripture, such as Psalm 18:2: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.”

The opening lines of the hymn emphasize the need for a steadfast foundation:

“Rock of Ages, cleft for me,

Let me hide myself in Thee;

Let the water and the blood,

From Thy wounded side which flowed,

Be of sin the double cure;

Save from wrath and make me pure.”

The hymn’s focus on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ is expressed through the reference to the water and blood flowing from His wounded side, symbolizing His sacrificial death on the cross and the forgiveness of sins it provides.

I love best the lines that say;

Nothing in my hand I bring

Simply to the cross I cling,

I love this line because it reminds me that I do not bring any works or performance to God as a means of salvation, but trust wholly in Jesus and his redemptive work on the cross.

“Rock of Ages” serves as a reminder that Jesus Christ is the unchanging foundation upon which believers can rely. Just as the physical rock provided shelter for Toplady during the storm, Jesus offers refuge and security during life’s trials and challenges.

The spiritual application of the hymn lies in recognizing our own vulnerability and the transitory nature of worldly things. We are reminded to find our ultimate security and salvation in Jesus Christ, who is the Rock that never falters. By trusting in Him and seeking refuge in His grace, we can experience forgiveness, peace, and eternal life.

Moreover, “Rock of Ages” encourages us to surrender our burdens and seek shelter in God’s unchanging love. It reminds us that our own efforts and merits are insufficient for salvation and that we must rely entirely on the grace of God, symbolized by the “double cure” of the water and blood. It is a call to humbly acknowledge our need for a Savior and to place our trust in Him alone.

Overall, the story behind “Rock of Ages” and its spiritual application highlight the enduring strength and security found in God’s steadfast love and salvation through Jesus Christ. It invites us to take refuge in Him, find peace in His presence, and build our lives on the unshakeable foundation of faith.

Want to Listen? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pav7zYbhue0