Buried With Christ

By Thomas Ryder

Lyrics

1. Buried with Christ and raised with Him too,
What is there left for me to do?
Simply to cease from struggling and strife,
Simply to walk in newness of life.

Chorus:
Buried with Christ and dead unto sin;
Dying but living, Jesus within;
Ruling and reigning day after day,
Guiding and keeping all of the way.

2. Risen with Christ my glorious Head,
Holiness now the pathway I tread;
Beautiful thought from walking therein,
He that is dead is freed from all sin.

3. Living with Christ, who dieth no more,
Following Christ, who goeth before;
Not under law, I’m now under grace,
Sin is dethroned, and Christ takes its place.

Bible Reference

Romans 6:4

About This Hymn

Buried With Christ is a hymn written by Thomas Ryder in the late 19th century that proclaims the believer’s identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Based on Romans 6:4, this hymn emphasizes the transformative truth of salvation: through faith in Christ, the believer dies to sin and rises to newness of life. Ryder’s lyrics express both doctrinal clarity and personal joy, celebrating freedom from sin and the assurance of victory through Jesus’ resurrection. The song’s message is deeply rooted in Scripture, making it a meaningful hymn for baptism services and times of reflection on salvation.

The hymn’s verses walk the singer through the steps of the believer’s spiritual journey, beginning with being “buried with Christ” and moving toward a life of victory and service. Its poetic structure and memorable phrases emphasize union with Christ as central to Christian life. This theme aligns with the apostle Paul’s teaching that baptism is a public testimony of this spiritual reality. The hymn reflects the revival and holiness movements of its time, where songs were often crafted not only for worship but also to instruct and encourage Christians in their walk with God.

Over time, Buried With Christ has been cherished as a doctrinally rich hymn, often used in teaching and evangelism. Its clear message of dying to the old life and rising with Christ continues to resonate with believers, reminding them of their position in Him and their call to live in His resurrection power. Though not as widely known today as some contemporaneous hymns, it remains a deeply theological and practical piece, expressing gratitude for the believer’s new identity in Christ and the freedom found in His finished work.