I have chosen the phrase, “Et Teneo Et Teneor” as the title for my blog. This Latin phrase means, “I hold and am held”. The phrase was popularized by one of my favorite writers and biblical expositors, C.H. Spurgeon. Spurgeon made this the motto of the pastor’s college he founded in London in the late 19th century. The motto is often pieced with an image of a hand clinging to a Cross.
As I cling to the Cross, I am held first by Christ. He has given every gift necessary for Salvation, Life, and Godliness. Christ is forever holding me by His finished work; His death and resurrection. He is my sin bearer and redeemer! Though I might feel at times I hold to Christ, it is He who protects me from the demons and idols I served during the time of my apostasy. There is no difference between me and the death row inmate, the rapist, and the murderer apart from my union with Christ! The redeeming work of Christ alone has the power to transform a rebellious heart such as mine. The sacrificial love He has displayed compels me to hold to the Cross all the more and joyfully sing…
“My ransomed soul shall be
Through all eternity
Offered to thee;”*
I cling to the Cross not for what Christ gives or what He has done, but because he has made me adore who He is. This phrase typifies my union with Christ. I hold, but I was first held. Et Teneo, Et Teneor!
*excerpt from hymn by Sylvanus Phelps.
Greetings from Wordwise Hymns. I realize you posted this several years go, but I came across it because of the hymn quotation. Actually, for accuracy's sake, your footnote should read: Sylvanus Phelps, alt.--since the last line is not his. He used the word "something" throughout, connecting the stanzas. So, "My ransomed soul shall be / Though all eternity, / Something for Thee." And one added bit of information: "Et Teneo Et Teneor" was also the life motto of hymn writer Dora Greenwell, who gave us, "I Am Not Skilled to Understand." God bless. Appreciate your comments.
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