Chapter 97—A Wrong Use of Music
Angels are hovering around yonder dwelling. The young are there
assembled; there is the sound of vocal and instrumental music. Chris-
tians are gathered there, but what is that you hear? It is a song, a
frivolous ditty, fit for the dance hall. Behold, the pure angels gather
their light closer around them, and darkness envelops those in that
dwelling. The angels are moving from the scene. Sadness is upon
their countenances. Behold, they are weeping. This I saw repeated a
number of times all through the ranks of Sabbath keepers, and espe-
cially in _____. Music has occupied the hours which should have been
devoted to prayer. Music is the idol which many professed Sabbath-
keeping Christians worship. Satan has no objection to music, if he can
make that a channel through which to gain access to the minds of the
youth. Anything will suit his purpose that will divert the mind from
God, and engage the time which should be devoted to His service.
He works through the means which will exert the strongest influence
to hold the largest numbers in a pleasing infatuation, while they are
paralyzed by his power. When turned to good account, music is a
blessing, but it is often made one of Satan’s most attractive agencies
to ensnare souls. When abused, it leads the unconsecrated to pride,
vanity, and folly. When allowed to take the place of devotion and
prayer, it is a terrible curse. Young persons assemble to sing and,
although professed Christians, frequently dishonor God and their faith
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by their frivolous conversation and their choice of music. Sacred music
is not congenial to their taste. I was directed to the plain teachings of
God’s word, which had been passed by unnoticed. In the judgment all
these words of inspiration will condemn those who have not heeded
them.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:506
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Music a Power for Good
Music can be made a great power for good; yet we do not make
the most of this branch of worship. The singing is generally done from
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