Music That Offends God—Display is not religion nor sanctification. There is nothing more offensive in God’s sight than a display of instrumental music when those taking part are not consecrated, are not making melody in their hearts to the Lord. The offering most sweet and acceptable in God’s sight is a heart made humble by self-denial, by lifting the cross and following Jesus.
(Ev 510.1)
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We have no time now to spend in seeking those things that only please the senses. Close heart searching is needed. With tears and heartbroken confession we need to draw nigh to God that He may draw nigh to us.—The Review and Herald, November 14, 1899.
(Ev 510.2)
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God Glorified—God is glorified by songs of praise from a pure heart filled with love and devotion to Him.—Testimonies For The Church 1:509 (1867).
(Ev 510.3)
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Qualities of Good Music—Great improvement can be made in singing. Some think that the louder they sing the more music they make; but noise is not music. Good singing is like the music of the birds—subdued and melodious.
(Ev 510.4)
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In some of our churches I have heard solos that were altogether unsuitable for the service of the Lord’s house. The long-drawn-out notes and the peculiar sounds common in operatic singing are not pleasing to the angels. They delight to hear the simple songs of praise sung in a natural tone. The songs in which every word is uttered clearly, in a musical tone, are the songs that they join us in singing. They take up the refrain that is sung from the heart with the spirit and the understanding.—Manuscript 91, 1903.
(Ev 510.5)
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VC