Easter is the joyful proclamation that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. As Scripture declares, “He is not here, but is risen” (Luke 24:6). Throughout the centuries, believers have expressed this truth through hymns that proclaim the cross, the empty tomb, and the hope we have in Christ for eternal life with our Savior and God.
Below are a few beloved hymns that help us reflect on the sacrifice of our Savior and rejoice in His resurrection. May these songs encourage your heart and direct your worship this Easter season.
The Old Rugged Cross
Written by George Bennard, a traveling evangelist from Iowa, as he contemplated the meaning of the cross and strengthened his resolve to “cherish the old rugged cross” though it was “despised by the world.” The hymn was performed for the first time in its entirety in 1913 at the Pokagon Methodist Episcopal Church in Pokagon, Michigan. It was in the same building—109 years later—that Redeemed Quartet filmed The Old Rugged Cross, by then one of the most beloved worship songs of all time.
The message of this hymn echoes the words of Scripture: “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14).
Up From the Grave He Arose
A triumphant declaration of Christ’s victory over the grave! This hymn reflects on the days Jesus lay in the tomb and then celebrates the glorious moment of His resurrection in power. Christ defeated sin and death once and for all!
The apostle Paul proclaims, “knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him” (Romans 6:9). Because He lives, all who trust in Him share in the hope of eternal life and rejoice in the victory of our risen Savior.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross calls us to reflect on the sacrifice of Christ and the immeasurable love displayed at Calvary. The hymn reminds us that the cross is not merely a historical event— it is the foundation of our salvation.
Scripture reminds us of the depth of that love: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). As you consider the suffering of your Savior, respond with humble gratitude and wholehearted devotion. This traditional rendition comes from the North Hall band, a group from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kentucky.
Christ the Lord is Risen Today!
A joyful celebration of the resurrection! For generations, believers have sung this hymn as a declaration of victory: death has been defeated, and Christ has risen indeed.
This message reflects the angel’s proclamation at the empty tomb: “He is not here; for He is risen, as He said” (Matthew 28:6). It is a fitting anthem for Easter morning, inviting the church to lift its voice in praise to the risen King.
Jesus Paid it All
Jesus Paid It All proclaims the heart of the Gospel: that salvation is entirely the work of Christ. We bring nothing of our own merit—only our need. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has paid the full price for sin and offers forgiveness and new life to all who trust in Him. As Scripture declares, “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:14).
This performance was recorded at a local church right here in Nashville, not too far from Family Radio’s headquarters.
Because He Lives
A reminder that the resurrection of Christ gives believers hope for every circumstance. The risen Savior reigns today, and because He lives, we can face tomorrow with confidence. As Jesus Himself promised, “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19). Our future is secure in Him, and His victory over death assures us that life in Christ will never end.
In Christ Alone
In Christ Alone declares the sufficiency of Jesus for our salvation. From His incarnation to His death and triumphant resurrection, the hymn traces the full story of redemption. The message reflects the testimony of Scripture: “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Released in 2002, this modern hymn will be sung for generations to come!
These hymns have encouraged believers for generations because they point us to the central truth of Easter: Jesus Christ died for sinners and rose again in victory. As the apostle Paul writes, “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures . . . and that He rose again the third day” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).
As you listen and sing along, may these songs deepen your appreciation for the cross and fill your heart with praise for our risen Savior.