The Christian Flag

The Christian Flag

Shrink not, Christian, from the strife;

See! the flag that floats above:

Banner broad and dyed in blood; -

Stern its motto? No! 't is love! -

From the steep of Calvary,

By a Saviour's hand unfurled:

By the King of kings flung out

For the rallying of a world.

In the Rock of ages set:

Guarded by Omnipotence,

Man may battle, time may strive;

But they cannot pluck it thence.

When the earth sha'l be burned up:

When the heavens shall roll away;

And the universe at once,

Like a withered leaf, decay; -

When around the great white throne,

God's elect shall meet above,

Broader, brighter o'er their heads

Still shall float that flag of love.

Fling away the sheath of sin:

Show each good sword keen and bare;

But let every weapon be

Of the spirit and of prayer! -

Hark! the trumpet sounds the charge -

On! 't is greatest gain to die -

Strike home, true soldier of the cross -

God for his saints, and victory!

Spencer Wallace Cone

New Series 1:29, p. 4

1840.09.19