The Singing of Psalms
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No part of the Christian worship is more plainly warranted by the oracles of God than the ordinance of Singing of Psalms. The ancient Hebrews practised it at the Red Sea before their system of ceremonial worship was prescribed them by God (Exod. 15). It was preferred to the most pompous sacrifices, even while the ceremonial observances remained in their vigour (Ps. 69:30–31). The divine obligation to it remained in full force when the ceremonial law, with all its rites, was abolished (Ps. 47:1–7; 67:4; 100:1–4; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; James 5:13). We have it enforced with the most engaging example of the angels who kept their first estate (Job 38:6–8; Luke 2:13–14; Rev. 5:11–12), and of apostles and saints (Acts 16:25; 1 Cor. 14:15, etc.); nay, of our Redeemer himself (Matt. 26:30). This exercise, performed in a manner suited to the dignity of the glorified state, will be the everlasting employ of established angels and ransomed men (Isa. 26:19; 51:11; Rev. 5:9–13).