The Psalms of David in metre

Listen to some Psalm singing

Thankfully, for which we give God the praise, there has been in England a growing interest in what was once a widespread practice, the singing of Psalms in the public worship of God. Sadly however, the Psalms, or the 'Book of Praises', which without question is God's inspired hymnbook, continues to be rejected by many a minister and local congregation, this I believe, is to be greatly lamented.

May I, in a loving and compassionate way remind those who continue to reject the singing of Psalms of three important facts. Firstly, Christ whilst here upon earth, delighted in and sung exclusively from the Psalms; as did His disciples and the early church. Secondly, the Psalms, as being God's hymnbook, will never be surpassed by any other. And then thirdly, the acceptance of it by God as worthy praise, cannot be questioned.

We have witnessed in recent decades a downgrade in public worship on an immense scale, things are not what they used to be, a recovery is so vital. Now, I believe in the road to recovery God's hymnbook must be introduced in those Churches where it is absent, for in worship, there must be, as the Lord has abundantly made plain in Scripture, the singing of Psalms.

Over recent years, the Trinitarian Bible Society has republished the Psalms of David in Metre in two quality editions. The large print edition, ideal for local congregations, is excellent edition, not only for the young but also for the elderly. The small pocket size edition is ideal for taking whilst travelling. Both come at a very reasonable price, making it much more affordable to local churches and individual believers compared with that of other hymnbooks.

May I, as one who has come to understand not only the Biblical warrant for, but also the blessing of Psalm singing, heartily recommend these Psalter's.

May there in days to come, be an even greater awareness of the singing of Psalms, and may the Psalms again have there rightful place in the worship of God.

Aaron J Lewis. June 2010

Letters of Samuel Rutherford

The letters of Samuel Rutherford have for long been the constant companion of the most devout minds. Therein we have a treasure, for they are an extolling of the virtues of Christ, and record of “love banquets with my royal, high, and princely King Jesus”. Yes, the glorious greatness of Emmanuel is his constant theme. His heart is full of Christ, and “out of the abundance of his heart, his mouth speaketh”. While love to God was the ruling affection of his heart, love to man breathes from every page of his spiritual letters.
In a short review only one example may be given. It is in a letter to John Gordon at Rusco, “Remember, many go far on and reform many things, and can find tears, as Esau did; and suffer hunger for truth, as Judas did; and desire the end of the righteous as Balaam did; and fight for the Lord, as Saul did; and desire the saints to pray for them, as Pharoah did; and prophesy of Christ, as Caiaphas did; and fear God`s judgements, as Ahab did; and put away idolatry, as Jehu did; and hear the Word of God gladly, as Herod did; and offer to follow Christ, as the servant did, (Matthew 8:19). “And yet”, Rutherford says, “all these are but like gold in colour only”.

“But let us try ourselves, and not rest till we be a step nearer to Christ. I commend Christ and His love to you in all things. Let Him have the flower of your heart and love”.

The Westminster Shorter Catechism Explained by James Fisher

Nothing tends to the spiritual advantage and well-being of the Church than sound Scriptural standards of doctrine, worship and government, because, as they are a strong bulwark against contrary errors and opinions, so they tend to preserve Truth in its purity. We heartily commend the Exposition of the Shorter Catechism, and pray that it may continue to be blessed of God for the edification of souls in these degenerate days.