Almost all of western civilization has heard at least some of the works of J.S. Bach.  This is true whether or not listeners are aware of the specific name behind the composer of those works.  Those who are more well-educated would even be familiar with his physical portrait and somber countenance.  For some, he may have appeared stiff and serious.  For others, he may have represented a higher class of musical knowledge and mature taste.

The Secret Life of J.S. Bach

The one thing that most people do not know about Bach is the very reason he pursued music to begin with.  I quote, “The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul.” – J.S. Bach

Many of us are unaware of the level of Bach’s zeal for the Lord throughout his explorations in musical genius.  In fact, at the end of each musical work, Bach would ascribe all glory to God alone through the latin phrase “Soli Deo Gloria”.  For a man of such great influence, this fact should not go unnoticed.

The Source of His Zeal

Some may ascribe this to the discipleship from his father, whose reformation thinking led him to flee Hungary as a devoted Lutheran.  But, J.S. Bach’s love for the Lord goes deeper than mere patriarchal influence.  His faith penetrated every page of his Well-Tempered Clavier, Suites, Cantatas, Tocattas, etc.  His music communicates a strange union between the complexity and simplicity of beauty.  For Bach, music was a tool for communicating the heart of worship toward the unfathomable yet personal God who made Him.

J.S. Bach would have never understood the level of influence his music would have on history. But, his legacy stands as an example of giving honor to the only One who deserves to be remembered for all eternity – Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading

If you would like to know more about J.S. Bach’s spiritual life, you can discover more in “The Gift of Music” by Jane Stuart Smith and Betty Carlson.