The Rock of Ages

These timeless words are a part of Isaiah’s song of praise which expounds upon a symbol of stability that is found throughout the Bible. One scholar, A.B. Simpson, states:

“The metaphor (rock) is repeated over and over again. 'The LORD is our rock.’ ‘The rock of our heart.’ ‘The rock of our salvation.’ ‘The rock that is higher than we.’ ‘The shadow of a great rock in a weary land’; and here sublimest of them all, ‘The Rock of Ages.’ This is the only passage in the Scriptures where this particular phrase, so full of deep meaning and majesty, is found.”

Of special significance is the three-fold usage of LORD in the fourth verse. Obviously, Isaiah, whose vision in the sixth chapter of the prophetic classis also used LORD (Yahweh) and Lord (Adonai) three times, was quite aware that the LORD was the epitome of stability for Himself and all followers of the Holy One of Israel.

Then in the New Testament Jesus, Yahweh in the flesh, echoes Isaiah by speaking of the wise man who built his house on the rock. What a comfort for all Christ-followers who have made Jesus their forever friend.

Songs:

Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee; Let the water and the blood, From thy river side which flowed Be of sin the double cure, Cleanse me from its guilt and pow’r.

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
--August Toplady

In times like these you need a Savior, In times like these you need an anchor; Be very sure, be very sure your anchor holds, and grips the solid Rock!

This Rock is Jesus, Yes, He’s the One; This Rock is Jesus, the only One; Be very sure, be very sure your anchor holds and grips the solid Rock
--Ruth Cye Jones