Drawn to the Cross which You have Blest
Drawn to the cross which you have blest
This hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of Christ's cross as the center of redemption and the magnetic power of Christ's atoning work to draw all people to salvation. It reflects the Reformation emphasis on justification through faith in Christ's crucifixion.
History & Background
Written by William Bright, Bishop of Durham, in 1874 for his hymnal 'Hymns and Other Poems.' The text gained widespread adoption in Lutheran and Anglican hymnals throughout the 20th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 817
- Lutheran Service Book — 560
- Lutheran Worship — 356
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 390
Bulletin Note
Written by English hymnologist William Bright in 1874, this hymn expresses the Lutheran conviction that Christ's cross—far from a symbol of defeat—is the transformative center drawing all creation toward redemption and grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Reformation insight that the cross functions as both the revelation of human sinfulness (Law) and the magnet of divine mercy (Gospel), making it a natural companion to any sermon on justification or the centrality of Christ's atoning work.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From personal awakening to joyful praise, through recognition of God's redemptive love despite human ruin and opposition, to confident assurance of justification at the final judgment
Themes
Atonement of Christ Drawing to Christ Cross of Jesus Redemptive power Christian discipleship