earl40
Puritan Board Professor
I ask because the below it says it is a "duty" and that we are to sing hymns and use instruments. Also 51-3 "recommends" the singing of Psalms which the WCF and catechisms directly teach (as a duty) that we are to sing Psalms. In other words, to "recommend" In my most humble opinion says one may or not take head of the recommendation to sing Psalms.
The Singing of Psalms and Hymns
51-1. Praising God through the medium of music is a duty and a privilege.
Therefore, the singing of hymns and psalms and the use of musical
instruments should have an important part in public worship.
51-2. In singing the praises of God, we are to sing in the spirit of worship,
with understanding in our hearts.
51-3. It is recommended that Psalms be sung along with the hymns of the
Church, but that caution be observed in the selection of hymns, that they be
true to the Word. Hymns should have the note of praise, or be in accord with
the spirit of the sermon.
The Singing of Psalms and Hymns
51-1. Praising God through the medium of music is a duty and a privilege.
Therefore, the singing of hymns and psalms and the use of musical
instruments should have an important part in public worship.
51-2. In singing the praises of God, we are to sing in the spirit of worship,
with understanding in our hearts.
51-3. It is recommended that Psalms be sung along with the hymns of the
Church, but that caution be observed in the selection of hymns, that they be
true to the Word. Hymns should have the note of praise, or be in accord with
the spirit of the sermon.