Anthems for a Dying Lamb: How Six Psalms (113-118) Became a Songbook for the Last Supper and the Age to Come

by Philip S. Ross

The Egyptian Hallel (Psalms 113-118) was part of the Passover seder, which directed proceedings during the Passover meal. The Hallel became known as the 'hymn' that Jesus sang with his disciples at the Last Supper, and is often part of communion services when the church celebrates the Lord's Supper. Anthems for a Dying Lamb offers an in-depth exposition of those psalms. Philip Ross explains them in their Old Testament context and shows how the 'trouble and sorrow' of Psalm 116, or the 'cornerstone' of Psalm 118, give us insight into Jesus' ministry and mindset in the hours before his crucifixion.

CONTENTS

Introduction: Scaffold Psalmody
1 Passover Praise?
2 Songs for a Later Age
3 Praise the Lord! (113)
4 Tremble, O Earth! (114)
5 Trust in the Lord (115)
Interlude: ‘I Will Declare Your Name to My Brethren’
6 Return, O My Soul, to Your Rest (116)
7 Follow the Conductor (117)
8 Save Now! (118)
9 O Lord, Open Our Lips

160 pages, Paperback

Published December 1, 2017

About the author

Philip S. Ross is minister of Dundee Presbyterian Church in Scotland. He completed his PhD through the University of Wales Lampeter. As a theological editor, he worked extensively on the Christian Heritage editions of The Marrow of Modern Divinity and subtitled five John Owen works – The Glory of Christ, The Holy Spirit, Communion with God, Assurance and The Priesthood of Christ.

Reviews

[Jonathan Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Helped me preach the Psalms covered in this book. Really good

[Andrew Farr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent guide for Psalms 113-118

[Adam Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful and enriching guide to the Hallel Psalms, reflecting on what it looked like for Jesus to sing these psalms, and what it means for us to sing with him. Very readable, but with lots to chew on. Especially recommended for anyone teaching these psalms.

[Phil Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant exposition of the Passover psalms that Jesus sung the night before the cross. Highly recommended!

[James R. · Rating 3 out of 5]

some really good points but…..

I appreciate the meat of this book but the writing style is too convoluted and very difficult to follow. It needs a serious rewrite

[Matt Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book that gives a glimpse into the final songs of Christ. Humbling to think about how on the night Jesus was betrayed he was singing of the goodness and love of the Father…all the while, he would soon show the goodness and love of the Father towards sinners by crushing the Son.

Book ends with a beautiful gospel invitation, which was fitting and provoking. May this book lead to the salvation of many as they contemplate the last hours of Christ Jesus.