George Bennard (1873–1958)

George Bennard was born February 4, 1873, in Ohio. Raised in ordinary surroundings and acquainted with hardship, he learned early that real strength is found not in self-reliance but in trusting God. His life became a steady example of quiet heroism—serving when few applauded, preaching when hearts were resistant, and returning again and again to the same saving message.

Bennard became an evangelist whose ministry stretched across the American Midwest during an era of earnest revival preaching. He also wrote more than 300 gospel songs, seeking to put lasting truth into memorable words. Yet his greatest contribution was not fame, but faithfulness: urging both repentant sinners and weary believers to look to Christ and to keep looking.

“The Old Rugged Cross” (early 1910s)

Written in the early 1910s and first sung in revival meetings, “The Old Rugged Cross” captured the heart of Bennard’s preaching—Calvary as the turning point of history and the believer’s lifelong boast. In simple lines, the hymn speaks plainly of shame and suffering, yet refuses despair, because the cross is not the end of the story; it is the place where sin is judged and mercy is offered.

Its power lies in its honesty: the cross is “rugged,” not polished; it confronts pride, not coddles it. And yet it is also beloved, because there Christ gave Himself willingly. “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Legacy: Clinging to the Cross

Bennard’s best-known hymn has endured because it teaches a needed Christian attribute: steadfast devotion. It calls believers to cling, not to comfort, but to Christ crucified—until faith becomes sight. “But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14).

Through one song used far beyond its writer’s reach, Bennard’s legacy still points hearts to Calvary, where shame becomes salvation and death gives way to everlasting life, and where disciples learn to follow Jesus faithfully.