The Biblical Psalms in Christian Worship: A Brief Introduction and Guide to Resources (The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Liturgical Studies

Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Liturgical Studies

by John D. Witvliet

In this concise yet comprehensive guide to using and praying the psalms in worship services, John Witvliet first offers summary of key biblical-theological themes related to the practice of worship, and he continues with reflections on every step in the process of preparing to use the psalms in worship, drawing on insights from writings in the history, theology, and pastoral practice of worship, liturgy, and preaching. Including patristic testimonies as "prelude" and both Reformation-era and modern testimonies as two "interludes," the volume also offers a comprehensive list of currently available liturgical and musical resources.

Witvliet offers a first -- a book designed to speak at once to both "traditional " and "contemporary " worship practices. The Biblical Psalms in Christian Worship will appeal to a wide range of readers, including college and seminary students, scholars and teachers, church educators, worship leaders, musicians, and librarians.

Genres: Theology, Christianity

189 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2007

About the author

John D. Witvliet (PhD, University of Notre Dame) is director of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and professor of congregational studies, music, and worship at Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary.

Reviews

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is much in this book that suggests the use of the entire Psalter in Christian worship: praise and thanksgiving psalms as well as psalms of lament and questioning. If you seek practical ideas and resources for praying the psalms in worship--or even for a personal spiritual practice--this is an excellent book.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to dig deeper in the varieties of ways the Psalms can be incorporated in worship. The Psalms have a rich tradition in my denomination, but I've struggled to keep them incorporated in creative ways. Witvliet offers a solution, and his bibliographies for each section are worth the price of the book.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

According to the author, his goal for this book was "both to promote and to discipline the creativity we bring to praying the Psalms in community". He is probably only somewhat successful in the realization of that goal. The intended audience is very large as this work has an "ecumenical" focus. That means that most readers will find something in this book that will encourage the use of the Psalms in public worship. But it also means that each individual reader will only be able to integrate a limited portion of this work into the worship of his or her community as each church's tradition and practice will determine what can and cannot be incorporated into its worship. A good portion of the book is taken up with presenting options for singing or speaking the Psalms in corporate worship. This section is interesting but now very dated (the book was published in 2007). I would guess that some of the resources that are cited are either no longer in print or have been surpassed by other options. So the book does have some value for contemporary use, but it will be limited.

[Rob O'Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really helpful introduction to and resource guide for using Psalms in Christian worship. Provides competent exegesis of the particulars of the psalms (i.e., rhetorical and literary features) as well as thorough discussion as to how to integrate the Psalms into both formal (liturgical, "high church") and informal (free, "low church") settings.

[Taylor Bradbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent introduction to the psalms and their use in Christian worship. Witvliet helpfully surveyed how central the psalms have been in Christian worship through the ages, and also covered deeply practical tips on how to regain an appreciation for and energy to sing them today.

3.75/5

[Josh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't find this book particularly helpful. It was written for a very broad audience, and in my opinion the advice became too general to be useful.

[Priscilla Previl · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent guide and overview on the Psalms in worship.

[Brian Collins · Rating 3 out of 5]

The title describes the book it introduces the Psalms in the context of Christian worship. It then provides guidance for effective ways to use the Psalms in worship services. The book has to major weaknesses: it is undiscerning both with regard to styles of music and to ecumenism. That said, there is a wealth of helpful information in this slender volume.