Theology First, Then Music.

Theology first, then music. Quotations from Martin Luther: “Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.” ? Martin Luther “Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.” ? Martin Luther “Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise. The gift of language combined with the gift of song was given to man that he should proclaim the Word of God through Music.” ? Martin Luther “Music is the art of the prophets and the gift of God.” ? Martin Luther “My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary.” ? Martin Luther “The devil, the originator of sorrowful anxieties and restless troubles, flees before the sound of music almost as much as before the Word of God….Music is a gift and grace of God, not an invention of men. Thus it drives out the devil and makes people cheerful. Then one forgets all wrath, impurity, and other devices.” ? Martin Luther “A person who…does not regard music as a marvelous creation of God, must be a clodhopper indeed and does not deserve to be called a human being; he should be permitted to hear nothing but the braying of asses and the grunting of hogs.” ? Martin Luther Before the Diet of Worms:   "Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason - I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other - my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen."