The Importance of Music as a Portal. WCF 219

Main Theme

  • Exploration of the importance of music, how God may use even non-Christian songs to convey messages, and the concept of “encrypted” songs whose meanings are revealed by the Holy Spirit.

Key Points

1. The Importance of Music

  • Music can transport listeners to godly, evil, or worldly realms.
  • Choosing music and lyrics is a major life decision impacting one’s spiritual walk.
  • Satan also uses music to influence people (e.g., Hitler’s admiration of Wagner).
  • Christians should seek music that draws them closer to God.

2. God Speaking Through Non-Christian Songs

  • : God can inspire non-believers to create songs with messages that touch hearts and draw people to Him.
  • Biblical precedent: God used heathen kings for His purposes—likewise, He can use secular musicians.
  • Once saved, the author no longer seeks out these songs but acknowledges their past spiritual impact.

3. Encrypted Songs

  • “Encrypted” songs: lyrics that may seem meaningless but carry Holy Spirit–given meaning to listeners.
  • Similar to allegorical works like The Pilgrim’s Progress and The Emperor’s New Clothes.
  • Examples of artists believed to have written such songs: Bob Dylan, Don McLean, Procol Harum, Simon & Garfunkel, The Moody Blues.

4. Artist and Song Highlights

  • Bob Dylan: Songs with layered meanings (“Desolation Row,” “Dignity,” “All Along the Watchtower,” “Like a Rolling Stone”). Multiple interpretations, often prophetic or socially critical.
  • Don McLean – “American Pie”: Possibly prophetic, touching on America’s spiritual decline and cultural collapse.
  • Procol Harum – “A Whiter Shade of Pale”: Musically innovative and spiritually resonant despite unclear lyrics.
  • Simon & Garfunkel: “Bridge Over Troubled ” and “The Sound of Silence” interpreted as spiritually uplifting and reaching global audiences.
  • The Moody Blues – “The Question”: Lyrics express a longing for and a miracle—echoes of a search for .

5. Closing Thoughts

  • God can use anyone to write music that moves people toward Him.
  • The songs discussed are mostly older examples; God continues to inspire musicians today.
  • Part II Preview: Focus on explicitly Christian music, composers who love Jesus, and music in heaven.

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