Christ and his cross is all our theme;

The myst'ries that we speak

Are scandal in the Jew's esteem,

And folly to the Greek.

But souls enlightened from above

With joy receive the word;

They see what wisdom, power, and love

Shine in their dying Lord.

The vital savor of his name

Restores their fainting breath;

But unbelief perverts the same

To guilt, despair, and death.

Till God diffuse his graces down,

Like showers of heav'nly rain,

In vain Apollos sows the ground,

And Paul may plant in vain.