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You bring the Hymnal, I'll bring the History
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In 1776 Augustus Toplady wrote an article for "The Gospel Magazine." He also wrote a new hymn "Rock of Ages" as a crown for his article. His theme was to proclaim his belief that the cross of Christ is the source of our salvation and not our own good efforts. Notice especially stanza two. Could a mere man help God to achieve our own salvation. No never! We must look to the cross and come to Christ depending totally on Him.

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"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 me from its guilt and pow'r.

Not the labors of my hands, can fulfill Thy law's demands;
Could my zeal no respite know, Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone.

Nothing in my hand I bring,, simply to Thy cross I cling,
Naked, come to Thee for dress, helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly, wash me, Savior, or I die!

While I draw this fleeting breath, when my eyes shall close in death,
When I soar to worlds unknown, see Thee on Thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in Thee.

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