Martin Luther: The Man of the Hour

Foremost among those who were called to lead the church from the darkness of popery into the light of a purer faith, stood Martin Luther. Zealous, ardent, and devoted, knowing no fear but the fear of God, and acknowledging no foundation for religious faith but the Holy Scriptures, Luther was the man for the time;…

Joachim Neander: The Wild Hymn Writer

The year was 1670. The Pietist movement was sweeping fast across the Protestant areas of Germany. Many sermons placed an emphasis on personal religion. And at St. Martin’s church in Bremen, it was no different. Using 1 Peter 1 as a basis of his sermon, the preacher gave a powerful call to a real spiritual rebirth,…

Franklin Edson Belden (1858-1945)

Gallery BIRTH & DEATH b: 21 March 1858; Battle Creek, Michigand: 2 December 1945; Cleveland, Ohio HIGHLIGHTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS Known as the most prolific writer of hymn tunes, gospel songs, and related texts in the early years of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and was referred to as “the sweet singer of Israel” Also known for…

The Moravians – Their Beginnings, Music and Mission

The execution of Huss had kindled a flame of indignation and horror in Bohemia. It was felt by the whole nation that he had fallen a prey to the malice of the priests and the treachery of the emperor. He was declared to have been a faithful teacher of the truth, and the council that…

John Huss and Bohemia’s Reason to Sing

John Huss’ story ended on a high note, literally. He was burned alive for refusing to recant his theologies. Yet while the flames consumed him on the stakes, no cry of pain was sounded. Instead, a voice of singing was heard. Many years later, Martin Luther reflected on Huss’ martyrdom and wrote, “I was overwhelmed with astonishment.…