<![CDATA[This research examines Augustine’s theological views on music and their implications for the church as it reconsiders the motivations and purposes of using music, particularly where music tends to focus on emotional experience. I argue that Augustine’s theology offers a constructive alternative: the congregation should understand music not merely as something that satisfies the emotions of the soul, but as a “sign” that points to realities beyond itself and can guide the soul toward God. More specifically, I argue that Augustine: (1) offers both subjective and objective perspectives on music that can help God’s people develop a more holistic view; (2) understands harmonically ordered music and its content as an act of love that can help those whose lives have become chaotic and disintegrated to be reintegrated and prepared to encounter God; (3) presents music as a means through which God educates the faithful to develop spiritual awareness and discover a reality beyond the beauty of music itself; (4) encourages the church to consider theological reasons for its various practices of music; and (5) critiques music performers in ways that can encourage churches to attend more carefully to music ministers and to remain vigilant against popularity, money, and personal pleasure while reflecting on the deeper essence of music.]]>
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