Exclusive Psalmody, Private Worship, and the Regulative Principle.

[alexanderjames]

Having read a few comments over past discussions regarding Exclusive Psalmody, I am curious as to the positions of members here who hold to EP..

How do you view and approach private worship?

Would you be opposed to the use instruments of all or any kind in worship?

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind, and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

 

[Sam Jer]

Having read a few comments over past discussions regarding Exclusive Psalmody, I am curious as to the positions of members here who hold to EP..

How do you view and approach private worship?

Quest. 50. What is required in the second commandment?
Ans. 50. The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in his word.(1)

(1) Deut. 32:46; Matt. 28:20; Acts. 2:42.

Quest. 51. What is forbidden in the second commandment?
Ans. 51. The second commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by images,(1) or any other way not appointed in his word.(2)

(1) Deut. 4:15-19; Exod. 32:5, 8.
(2) Deut. 12:31-32.

Quest. 52. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment?
Ans. 52. The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God’s sovereignty over us,(1) his propriety in us,(2) and the zeal he hath to his own worship.(3)

(1) Ps. 95:2-3, 6.
(2) Ps. 45:11.
(3) Exod. 34:13-14.

While there are some adjustments, it isn't that different. I am sure other more qualified people will be elaborating very soon.

Would you be opposed to the use instruments of all or any kind in worship?

Yes.

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind (non-a capella Psalmody), and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

"In worship" is the key word here. There are plenty of good uses of instruments, but in the current administration of the Covenant of Grace, the worship of God is not one of them.

 

[Ed Walsh]

Having read a few comments over past discussions regarding Exclusive Psalmody, I am curious as to the positions of members here who hold to EP..

How do you view and approach private worship?

Would you be opposed to the use instruments of all or any kind in worship?

I would say that I am pragmatically EP. Life is short, so why should I waste my time on the works of man? Cease ye from man, I say, as I turn to the Psalms again.

I begin every day of what's left of my life; to sing to thee is my joy. I first get a roll of paper towels because I know that my eyes will be wet, my nose will run, and I'll cry out loud to thee. Oh, how I need thee Lord.

As I said before, where else can you sing to Jesus about Jesus and with Jesus other than in the Psalms of David? I learned much about the heart of Jesus that the New Testament alone leaves out. Oh, how love I thy law. It is my meditation day and night. It is my food, my sustenance; You, oh Lord are my everything.

So far this morning I've gone through five sheets of my paper towels.

 

[michael_topple]

I believe that the RP shows us the right way to worship, and as such in family worship (for example) we would only sing the Metrical Psalms. My wife, who comes from a different tradition to me, is often humming or singing worship songs from her childhood. Do I try to stop her? No.
However when I am leading family worship we have agreed to worship according to the Regulative Principle, and draw great spiritual blessing from doing so. As Ed says, where else can we get such deep knowledge of the Lord Jesus?

We are part of (and I work for) a church that allows hymnody alongside the Psalms. I do find this difficult at times, and while not making a big thing of it, I remain silent when the hymns are being sung. When I preach in that church, I feel I should follow the pattern that the Minister/Session have agreed, so choose two metrical Psalms alongside two paraphrases (yes, I know that technically this is not inkeeping with the RP, but it is as close as I can get without making a scene). I know this is far from ideal, but I feel the Lord understands the predicament. When I preach in other churches, I pick exclusively from the Psalms because that it what they are used to - for some reason only RP churches tend to invite me to preach!

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind, and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

As Sam Jer has said, I'm not opposed to instruments in general - it is just in the worship of Almighty God that I have an issue with them. I'm happy to sing along to (suitable) songs outside the sphere of worship. I don't feel this is inconsistent. Sometimes listening to Classic FM (UK-based classical music station) I feel my soul well up with gratitude to God for his providence, and again I don't feel that this is sinful: but I would not choose to worship Him through classical music.

Would be interested to hear how other people approach this.

 

[michael_topple]

Having read a few comments over past discussions regarding Exclusive Psalmody, I am curious as to the positions of members here who hold to EP..

How do you view and approach private worship?

Would you be opposed to the use instruments of all or any kind in worship?

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind, and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

PS it is interesting/encouraging to see a PB member who is part of the CofE. My experiences with the CofE have not been positive, so to see that there is at least one reformed Christian in the denomination is thoroughly encouraging... Genesis 18: 16-33 comes to mind!

 

[Ed Walsh]

Genesis 18. 16-33 comes to mind!

The syntax should be, Genesis 18:16-33 with the colon between the chapter and verses.

 

[Sam Jer]

PS it is interesting/encouraging to see a PB member who is part of the CofE. My experiences with the CofE have not been positive, so to see that there is at least one reformed Christian in the denomination is thoroughly encouraging... Genesis 18. 16-33 comes to mind!

There aren't that many options where I am, and I am currently hindered from moving to a place where there is a better option. The congregation I am in is orthodox enough to attend.
Also, it is technically not CofE due to geography and such.
If you want to discuss my particular circumstances I think it would be better to do so somewhere other than a public forum.

 

[michael_topple]

The syntax should be, Genesis 18:16-33 with the colon between the chapter and verses.

Thank you brother.

There aren't that many options where I am, and I am currently hindered from moving to a place where there is a better option. The congregation I am in is orthodox enough to attend.
Also, it is technically not CofE due to geography and such.
If you want to discuss my particular circumstances I think it would be better to do so somewhere other than a public forum.

I hope my comment didn't offend you: it certainly wasn't meant in an unpleasant way. Simply that it is encouraging to see orthodox people in the CofE (I took CofE from your signature).
God bless.

 

[Rom]

God's elements of worship are always regulated by Him. God is a Spirit and them that worship Him must worship in Spirit and in Truth. God does not cease seeking that in private devotional exercises. I would not offer to God a man-made hymn in family worship or use instruments to praise Him.

That said, I am not opposed to instrumental music outside of worship. Hearing such music with thanksgiving in the heart with profound love for God is distinct from formal acts of worship. I can be thankful when I see the sunrise and the birds, and I glorify God for His Creation, but I would never take my family outside on the patio and say, let us do family worship by glorifying Him when we see His Majesty on display in His Creation. That might be very edifying and heart stirring, and may even prepare us to open up our psalm books and Bibles, but I would not call the act of watching the Creation, Family Worship. As far as instruments, my son plays the electric guitar and my daughter plays the piano, but they would be mortified if I said, play them in family worship, or at church.

 

[Deleted member 6112]

Having read a few comments over past discussions regarding Exclusive Psalmody, I am curious as to the positions of members here who hold to EP..

How do you view and approach private worship?

Would you be opposed to the use instruments of all or any kind in worship?

"The acceptable way of worshipping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited to his own revealed will, that he may not be worshipped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representations or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture."

We're not to worship God according to the imaginations of our own heart in public, family, or private worship. For instance, you would surely consider co-opting pagan rituals for your private devotions sinful. I wouldn't use musical instruments in private worship any more than I would use incense or animal sacrifices in private worship.

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind, and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

They are permissible outside of worship, and we ought to praise God for all his gifts. The same applies to incense and grilling meat.

 

[Ed Walsh]

same applies to incense and grilling meat.

 

[CathH]

Just to chime in with what others have said here, when it comes to instruments, the dividing line isn't really between public worship and private worship, but between worship and non-worship contexts.

Since living in England I've only grown in appreciation for the CofE, its people and its traditions and its contributions to national life here. I'm especially grateful for CofE schools, and the joy of hearing kids belting out the worship songs they've learned at school, instrumental accompaniment and all.

If you are opposed to the use of instruments, how do you view instruments in general - i.e. may you enjoy music of any kind, and if you may what happens if this stimulates a response of praise to God (would you deem that sinful)?

Music is one of God's good gifts to be enjoyed. I think it's only right and proper that hearing something lovely will stimulate a response of praise to God. It isn't sinful! I'd say the same for being moved to thankfulness or adoration for his goodness when you see a beautiful artwork or an excellently constructed bridge (etc etc). Everything in life, ideally, should prompt us to greater love or praise or trust or service or whatever. The problem is with a line of thought that goes, "Because X has generated a worshipful response in my heart, therefore X is something I can/may/should offer to God as a formal act of worship." The regulative principle approach is rather, "When I come to offer something to God as a formal act of worship, it needs to be something he actually tells me he wants to receive from me."

 

[alexanderjames]

Thank you for all your comments, they are quite illuminating.
And the poll is unanimous.

One aspect that prompted the questions was that a part of my devotional life as a believer has included enjoying listening (in private) to traditional hymns and songs being sung by fellow believers, and this largely has drawn out praise as well as being a great medicine to my soul on many occasions. I had more recently been wondering how someone holding to EP would process it.

 

[Andres]

Our family worship consists of a Psalm sung (or some evenings multiple Psalms), a passage of Scripture read, then prayer. Regarding your question of use of musical instruments, I've personally always been curious how families who are not a capella in conviction do family worship? Do they sing a capella just during that time or does everyone else own and know how to play pianos and such? Serious question.

As for how I view instruments and music outside of worship, I have no issues with it provided it's God-glorifying (which is rarer to come by with modern music). I personally don't listen to much music anymore preferring recorded sermons or podcasts to music in the car. On the occasions I do listen to music, I prefer classical now as It's relaxing for me and I value that.

 

[MW]

What is usually misunderstood is that the music itself was worship under the OT. It formed an essential part of the service. So when there was a call to a select class to play on instruments the meaning was that these mechanical, lifeless instruments were used to make a religious noise to God. Seen in this light it should be obvious that they were typical. They formed a part of the dramatic orchestration of what was happening in the house of God. These passed away with the old covenant, along with the temple, priesthood, sacrifices, incense, etc. All the smells and bells are dead and buried with Christ in Whom they find their ultimate realisation. We now orchestrate His sacrifice by preaching the gospel to all nations.

But music still has its place in everyday life. Just as we kill bulls and sheep and cook them on the barbecue. We just don't do it as a specific act of worship to God. It forms part of eating and drinking and doing all to the glory of God.

As for listening to hymns, one must exercise discernment. They often contain poor theology. This is the more dangerous because the error is subtle and conveyed in an insinuating form which pleases the mind.

 

[CathH]

One aspect that prompted the questions was that a part of my devotional life as a believer has included enjoying listening (in private) to traditional hymns and songs being sung by fellow believers, and this largely has drawn out praise as well as being a great medicine to my soul on many occasions. I had more recently been wondering how someone holding to EP would process it.

To me this doesn't sound massively different from reading devotional books - how could a believer *not* benefit from activities like this. The only hesitation would be if someone's reading diet barely included Scripture itself because of reading too many Puritans (or whatever). We have a rich resource in the hymns and songs that other believers have produced, and it's something entirely legitimate to draw on for our own edification, yet at the same time, surely we'd also think that a believer would be missing out by not also using the psalms as praise material.

I think it helps to have fairly clearcut boundaries between the ordinances of worship (public and private) and all the rest of life. For worship, we follow God's regulations. For all the rest of life, we use our own discretion and discernment about how we spend our time, and what activities are spiritually beneficial in amongst all the ordinary everyday things that occupy us.

 

[frog]

As for listening to hymns, one must exercise discernment. They often contain poor theology. This is the more dangerous because the error is subtle and conveyed in an insinuating form which pleases the mind.

Could you give some examples of hymns that have subtle errors?

 

[Northern Crofter]

Could you give some examples of hymns that have subtle errors?

Are there any hymns you are 100% sure have no errors?

 

[iainduguid]

Are there any hymns you are 100% sure have no errors?

Are there any prayers you are 100% sure have no errors, apart from the ones recorded in Scripture? And yet I'm guessing that you still pray uninspired prayers...

 

[MW]

Could you give some examples of hymns that have subtle errors?

Different books have their own selections which might not contain the examples. I suppose I could give one poet as a specimen, Charles Wesley. Some of his hymns contain the word "all" and refer to aspects of Christ's redeeming work which Calvinists consider to be limited to the elect. We also have classic lines which are quite dubious such as seeing the Godhead "veiled in flesh" as if He were not truly man and emptying Himself of all but love as if He ceased to be divine or the divine essence could be reduced to one property. Then there are others which carry the strains of Wesleyan perfectionism.

 

[Elias_Amare]

Are there any prayers you are 100% sure have no errors, apart from the ones recorded in Scripture? And yet I'm guessing that you still pray uninspired prayers...

In a debate between EPs and non-EPs, prayer is used against EPs' claim of only inspired songs, since prayer is with errors and still, uninspired prayers are valid. but isn't prayer a distinction act from singing? Or is there a definitive thought prayer is related to singing that can be used against EPs?

 

[Polanus1561]

I have been thinking about this...

It is only consistent for EPers to regard non-EPers as offering strange fire.
non-EPers include those who know EP but willingly reject it - i.e theologians who are non-EPers.

It is only consistent that there be a separation from such non-EPers. But we do see fellowship between both parties on an individual and church relational level.

Don't get me wrong—as a non-EPer I am thankful for such fellowship and in no way aim to antagonize any by the above.

But just some thoughts.

 

[Andres]

Are there any prayers you are 100% sure have no errors, apart from the ones recorded in Scripture? And yet I'm guessing that you still pray uninspired prayers...

God explicitly commands men to pray and Jesus Christ gives instruction on how to pray. Where in Scripture are we instructed and directed to compose our own praise songs?

 

[Northern Crofter]

Are there any prayers you are 100% sure have no errors, apart from the ones recorded in Scripture? And yet I'm guessing that you still pray uninspired prayers...

I do not believe there is any command to only pray prayers recorded in Scripture - Christ explicitly said: "After this manner therefore pray ye..." (Matthew 6.9). See also Romans 8.26 and Ephesians 6.18 - we are commanded to pray in-the-spirit prayers.

On the other hand, there are direct commands to sing inspired verse and no suggestion we sing anything else. What part of Scripture did Christ quote from the most? What do you believe Christ Himself sang on the night He was betrayed?

 

[iainduguid]

I do not believe there is any command to only pray prayers recorded in Scripture - Christ explicitly said: "After this manner therefore pray ye..." (Matthew 6.9). See also Romans 8.26 and Ephesians 6.18 - we are commanded to pray in-the-spirit prayers.

On the other hand, there are direct commands to sing inspired verse and no suggestion we sing anything else. What part of Scripture did Christ quote from the most? What do you believe Christ Himself sang on the night He was betrayed?

There's no point in rehashing all the arguments about EP here. My point was simply that the mere possibility of error in a component of worship is not sufficient cause to bar it. It's an argument that necessarily proves too much. That's not to say that there aren't other arguments that may be used; just not this one.

 

[Polanus1561]

There's no point in rehashing all the arguments about EP here. My point was simply that the mere possibility of error in a component of worship is not sufficient cause to bar it. It's an argument that necessarily proves too much. That's not to say that there aren't other arguments that may be used; just not this one.

As a non-EPer, the argument of the EP is not so much fallible, infallible. It is commanded or not.

 

[Jeri Tanner]

One aspect that prompted the questions was that a part of my devotional life as a believer has included enjoying listening (in private) to traditional hymns and songs being sung by fellow believers, and this largely has drawn out praise as well as being a great medicine to my soul on many occasions. I had more recently been wondering how someone holding to EP would process it.

As my understanding of the Psalms, and what they accomplish, grew, I just more and more lost interest in hymns (all styles), including listening to them or especially singing them. I also began to be jealous that those songs have supplanted the Psalms in public and private worship. So that made me less fond of those man-made songs, even though some of them definitely have some good lines.

 

[Ed Walsh]

As my understanding of the Psalms, and what they accomplish, grew, I just more and more lost interest in hymns (all styles), including listening to them or especially singing them. I also began to be jealous that those songs have supplanted the Psalms in public and private worship. So that made me less fond of those man-made songs, even though some of them definitely have some good lines.

Good job!

As I said in a similar post a while ago, I am more pragmatically than doctrinally a Psalm singer. At my funeral Psalm 90 will be sung, and one hymn, For All The Saints, as it is a kind of testimony of my life. Hope that's not too disappointing to y'all.

 

[cthorn14]

While the substance of the EP debate is indeed exegetical, I find GI Williamson's account of the development of the Trinity Hymnal to be an interesting practical consequence:

I was present at the Denver Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in 1956, when the list of songs was presented to the Assembly for inclusion in the proposed new hymnal. I still remember the fascinating debate about the content of many of these uninspired hymns. Again and again a delegate would stand up and object to the content — and teaching — of such and such an hymn. Often the objections were formidable in my eyes. Yet over and over the objection was denied. I felt that popularity was really the overruling factor. But the thing that remains with me to this day is the fact that when men determine that content of the book of praise for the church of Jesus Christ, there can never be a book of praise against which the scruples of conscience will not remain — unless all concern for truth is dead! Many a man in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church — if the Denver Assembly is any indication — is grieved by the content of some of these hymns. And isn’t this fact alone a remarkable argument for the singing of the Psalms of God? For who could possibly be grieved with one of the inspired hymns?

 

[michael_topple]

As my understanding of the Psalms, and what they accomplish, grew, I just more and more lost interest in hymns (all styles), including listening to them or especially singing them. I also began to be jealous that those songs have supplanted the Psalms in public and private worship. So that made me less fond of those man-made songs, even though some of them definitely have some good lines.

This is exactly what happened in my case. I grew up in a hymn-singing church but since being introduced to Psalm singing I've not really looked back. Bless you.