Welcome back to "10 Hymns Every Christian Should Know", a series hosted by Clyde Copeland (Worship Pastor) and Lindsay Fralick (Associate Worship Leader) of Grand Parkway Baptist Church.

In this episode, we explore the history and enduring message of "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross", a hymn written by Isaac Watts, who is known as the "father of English hymns". Watts lived during a time when church music was not very well-developed and went on to write over 700 hymns, including "Joy to the World". Charles Wesley, another prolific hymn writer, once said he would have given all his own hymns to have written this one.

We delve into the line, "my richest gain I count but loss," connecting it to Philippians 3:7-8 where Paul considers all his earthly gains as "rubbish" compared to knowing Christ. This powerful phrase challenges us to lay down our pride and self-worth, which are nothing in comparison to what happened on the cross.

Finally, we discuss the hymn's intense conclusion: "demands my soul, my life, my all". This is a powerful reminder that the cross calls us to respond, not just to reflect. It's a call to action that should change everything about our lives, from how we love each other to how we raise our kids and work at our jobs.

The 5:19 Worship Podcast is a ministry of Grand Parkway Baptist Church