Nicolai Decius
1485–1546 · Germany · Medieval
Nicolai Decius (1485-1546) was a German Lutheran theologian and hymn writer who played a vital role in promoting congregational singing during the Protestant Reformation. As a pastor and reformer, he championed the use of vernacular hymns, believing that congregational participation in worship through German-language songs was essential to Lutheran practice. Decius authored several significant hymns, including "Allein Gott in der Höh sei Ehr" (All Glory Be to God on High), which became a cornerstone of Lutheran hymnody. His work helped establish the tradition of congregational hymn singing that became central to Protestant worship. Decius's contributions to hymnody and his advocacy for vernacular religious music made him an important figure in the development of Lutheran church music during the early Reformation period.
Hymn Texts (12)
- O Jesus Lamb of God Thou Art
- Lord God We All to Thee Give Praise
- Glory Be to God in Heaven
- O Christ, Our True and Only Light
- We Praise You and Acknowledge You, O God
- Lamb of God, Pure and Holy
- Lamb of God
- The Only Son from Heaven
- Father Let Me Dedicate
- Lamb of God Pure and Sinless
- O Jesus Lamb of God You Are
- Praise God the Lord Ye Sons of Men