Beneath the Cross (Getty)
Lyrics
I find a place to stand,
and wonder at such mercy
that calls me as I am;
for hands that should discard me,
hold wounds which tell me, ‘Come’.
Beneath the cross of Jesus
my unworthy soul is won.
his family is my own-
once strangers chasing selfish dreams,
now one through grace alone.
How could I now dishonour
the ones that you have loved?
Beneath the cross of Jesus
see the children called by God.
the path before the crown-
we follow in his footsteps
where promised hope is found.
How great the joy before us
to be his perfect bride;
beneath the cross of Jesus
we will gladly live our lives.
Bible Reference
Galatians 6:14; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Isaiah 53:4-6; John 19:17-30; Romans 5:6-11
About This Hymn
Beneath the Cross is a modern hymn by Keith and Kristyn Getty that invites the church to stand in reverent contemplation at the foot of Christ’s cross. The hymn reflects the Gettys’ consistent aim to unite strong biblical theology with congregational song, presenting the cross not merely as a historical event but as the defining center of Christian faith, identity, and hope.
The text draws the believer’s attention to the cross as the place where God’s love and justice meet. Echoing the apostle Paul’s resolve to glory only in the cross of Christ, the hymn emphasizes that salvation is accomplished through Christ’s suffering and self giving sacrifice. The cross is portrayed as both a place of sorrow and the source of deepest joy, where sin is judged and grace is freely given.
A key theme of the hymn is humility. Standing beneath the cross silences pride and self reliance, reminding the believer that redemption is entirely God’s work. The imagery encourages worshipers to lay down their achievements, fears, and sins, finding their identity not in themselves but in the crucified Savior. This aligns with the biblical teaching that the message of the cross overturns human wisdom and power.
The hymn also calls for a response of devotion and obedience. The cross is not only something to be admired but something that reshapes the believer’s life. Gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice leads naturally to lives marked by love, holiness, and sacrificial service. In this way, the hymn connects doctrine with discipleship, showing that the cross transforms both belief and behavior.
Beneath the Cross has become a valued hymn in services focused on the atonement, Good Friday, communion, and gospel centered worship. Its clear Christ centered focus and thoughtful poetry help congregations meditate on the meaning of the cross and respond with worship, repentance, and renewed commitment to follow Christ who gave Himself for them.
From the Dictionary of Hymnology
Related terms and concepts automatically matched to this hymn.
Addiscott, Henry History
Biographical entry for Henry Addiscott (1806–1860), English Congregational minister and author of the hymn "And is there, Lord, a cross for me."
Read moreAnd did the Holy and the Just Hymnology
An entry on Anne Steele's redemption hymn based on 1 Peter 3:18.
Read more
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- Heaven Came Down and Glory Filled my Soul — John W. Peterson
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