JESUS CHRIST >> SUFFERINGS & DEATH
SDAH 155
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.
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Hymn Spotlight: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (3/4)
This alternate setting to ROCKINGHAM OLD brings a gentle, flowing lilt to Watts’ profound text. First published in 1790 by Edward Miller, the tune adds tenderness to the contemplation of Christ’s death. Its triple meter evokes both sorrow and serenity, drawing us into deeper worship at the foot of the cross. May the rhythm and reverence of this version help us pause and truly behold the “Prince of glory” crucified.
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Introductions for Sabbath School Song Service (based on specific lesson quarterlies):
For the words see the preceding hymn, SDAH 154. The tune ROCKINGHAM OLD was first published in 1790 by Edward Miller, organist at Doncaster Parish Church for 50 years! Born in Norwich, England, in 1731, he ran away from home and studied music. with Charles Burney, and for a while played the German flute in Handel’s orchestra. Cambridge University conferred the D.Mus. on him in 1786. He died at Doncaster, Yorkshire, September 11 or 12, 1807. Maintaining a keen interest in raising the standards of church music, he published many articles and collections, including Psalms of David Set to Music, 1774, and Thoughts on the Present Performance of Psalmody in the Established Church of England. Addressed to the Clergy, 1791. This tune was in his Psalms of David for the Use of Parish Churches, 1790, where it is described as “part of a melody taken from a hymn tune.” It is derived from a triple-time tune called TUNBRIDGE appearing in Aaron Williams’ Psalmody in Miniature, c. 1780. Miller noted that this would make a good Long Meter tune. It is named in honor of Miller\’s friend and patron, the marquess of Rockingham, who was twice prime minister of Great Britain. Williams also contributed the tunes MEAR, SDAH 39, and ST. THOMAS, SDAH 344 and 372.
Stanza:
1 – Philippians 3:8
2 – Galatians 6:14
3 – Mark 15:17
4 – Matthew 22:37
Text
1
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.
2
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?
3
Since I, who was undone and lost,
Have pardon through His name and word;
Forbid it, then, that I should boast,
Save in the cross of Christ my Lord.
4
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a tribute far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my life, my soul, my all.
Hymn Info
Biblical Reference
(a) Phil 3:8 (b) Gal 6:14 (c) Mark 15:17 (d) Matt 22:37
Author
Isaac Watts (1674-1748)
Year Published
1707
Hymn Tune
ROCKINGHAM OLD
Metrical Number
L.M.
Composer
Edward Miller (1731-1807)
Tune Source
1790
Alternate Tune / Rhythm / Harmony
MCCABE SDAH 401
