Theology On Tap- Episode 107: A Mighty Fortress & Psalm 46

Theology On Tap

In this episode the Theology on Tap crew discusses the hymn "A Mighty Fortress" and the Psalm behind it, so pour yourself a cold beer, warm cup of milk, hot tea or a bottle of water and enjoy this conversation.

A Mighty Fortress & Psalm 46

Luther wrote words and music between 1527 & 1529.

Ein feste Burg ist unser Got

It became known as the “anthem of the Reformation.”

· Perhaps used to inspire troops in wars against the Ottoman Empire which was pushing into Europe

· Perhaps used as a battle anthem by the Swedes during the 30 years war

· Perhaps an anthem of the Swedish Socialists in the 19th Century

The hymn has a unique metrical pattern – Luther didn’t borrow the tune. He wrote it and it enhances the lyrics. He did not use a bar tune. His tune fits the lyrics.

Psalm 46

God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11 The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

A liturgical psalm

Used is worship services by Ancient Hebrews – a song

· Psalm of Comfort

o Describing God’s power

§ As a refuge during crisis

· Very present help

§ A fortress which is a military image - but…

Interestingly – It doesn’t describe walls built by humans, or human armaments, chariots, or even horses which make this fortress impregnable. It is the Lord of hosts, who in the past destroyed the enemies of the city of God and who still is able to make wars cease to the end of the earth.

The Psalm has its own “rhythm,” perhaps 2 verses which we can find even in English

Verse 1 (verses 1-6)

Refrain (verse 7) “The Lord of Hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our fortress.”

Verse 2 (verses 8-10)

Refrain (verse 11) “The Lord of Hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our fortress.”

--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theologyontap/message