1. Am I a soldier of the cross? A foll'wer of the Lamb? And shall I fear to own His cause Or blush to speak His name? 2. Must I be carried to the skies On flow'ry beds of ease, While others fought to win the prize And sailed thru bloody seas? 3. Are there no foes for me to face? Must I not stem the flood? Is this vile world a friend to grace, To help me on to God? 4. Sure I must fight, if I would reign Increase my courage, Lord! I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, Supported by Thy word.
Lyrics:
Isaac Watts
Music: Thomas Augustine Arne
Tune: ARLINGTON
Meter: C.M.
Isaac Watts, 1674–1748
The Church founded by Christ has been built on the blood of martyrs. It has been estimated that at least 50 million persons have had a martyr’s death since the crucifixion of our Lord. Even today, large numbers of believers live under conditions of harassment and persecution.
In Isaac Watts’ time, much persecution was inflicted upon the English Dissenters—those who had split from the official, state Anglican church. Stalwarts such as Isaac Watts became resolute and fearless in their proclamation and defense of the gospel. “Am I a Soldier of the Cross?” was written in 1724, following a sermon by Watts titled “Holy Fortitude or Remedies Against Fears.”