timfost
Puritan Board Senior
This question regards the command to sing Psalms in public worship. I am not seeking to debate EP, nor am I seeking to challenge the confession. I'm seeking to understand how the WCF applies specific proof texts.
Context:
Proof texts on bolded words:
Question:
From reading the context of these three proof texts, I am having trouble understanding how these verses apply to corporate worship at all. The context of all three proofs seems to be general admonistions to all believers, not to church officers in how they conduct a corporate worship service.
If these verses apply to all believers as they relate to each other, what is the rationale that promotes that Psalm singing is specifically commanded in Sunday worship?
Context:
XXI.V. The reading of the Scriptures with godly fear, the sound preaching and conscionable hearing of the Word, in obedience unto God, with understanding, faith and reverence, singing of psalms with grace in the heart; as also, the due administration and worthy receiving of the sacraments instituted by Christ, are all parts of the ordinary religious worship of God: beside religious oaths, vows, solemn fastings, and thanksgivings upon special occasions, which are, in their several times and seasons, to be used in an holy and religious manner.
Proof texts on bolded words:
COL 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
EPH 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.
JAM 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Question:
From reading the context of these three proof texts, I am having trouble understanding how these verses apply to corporate worship at all. The context of all three proofs seems to be general admonistions to all believers, not to church officers in how they conduct a corporate worship service.
If these verses apply to all believers as they relate to each other, what is the rationale that promotes that Psalm singing is specifically commanded in Sunday worship?