Nicolaus Decius
1485–1541 · Germany · Medieval
Nicolaus Decius (1485–1541) was a German theologian, composer, and pioneering Lutheran hymn writer who made significant contributions to the development of Protestant hymnody during the Reformation. He produced numerous German-language hymn texts that became foundational to Lutheran worship practices and were widely adopted in churches throughout Germany. His works exemplified the early Lutheran emphasis on vernacular singing and congregational participation in religious services. Decius's hymns, combining theological depth with singable melodies, helped establish the tradition of chorales that would become central to German Protestant worship. His contributions as both poet and composer significantly influenced the development of Lutheran hymnody and church music during one of Christianity's most transformative periods.
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