And all the world go free?
No, there's a cross for ev'ry one,
And there's a cross for me.
2. The consecrated cross I'll bear
Till death shall set me free,
And then go home my crown to wear,
For there's a crown for me.
3. Upon the crystal pavement, down
At Jesus' pierced feet,
Joyful, I'll cast my golden crown
And His dear name repeat.
4. O precious cross! O glorious crown!
O resurrection day!
Ye angels, from the stars come down
The hymn Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone was originally written by Thomas Shepherd, an English clergyman and hymn writer, in the late 17th or early 18th century. The original text appeared in his work Penitential Cries (1693), a collection of devotional poems and hymns. The most well-known stanza—“Must Jesus bear the cross alone, and all the world go free? No, there’s a cross for everyone, and there’s a cross for me”—reflects a deep meditation on the cost of discipleship and the believer’s call to share in Christ’s suffering.
Over time, additional verses were added by other hymnists, including Thomas Curtis and later African American spiritual adaptations, particularly during the 19th century. The hymn became especially meaningful in both Black and white churches, resonating with those enduring hardship and persecution. Its simple yet powerful message emphasizes that following Jesus involves sacrifice, but also the hope of eternal reward. The hymn remains a poignant reminder that while Christ bore the ultimate burden, each believer is also called to carry their own cross in faith.
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