Reading the Psalms as Scripture
Reading the Psalms as Scripture
The psalms cultivate a life of prayer grounded in Scripture.
In Reading the Psalms as Scripture, James M. Hamilton Jr. and Matthew Damico guide the reader to delight in the spiritual artistry of the psalms. Psalms is a carefully arranged book saturated in Scripture. The psalmists drew from imagery and themes from earlier Scripture, which are then developed by later Scripture and fulfilled in Christ. The book of Psalms advances God’s grand story of redemption, and it gives us words to pray by drawing us into this story. When we meditate on the promises and patterns in the psalms, we can read, pray, and sing them with faithfulness.
Praise for Reading the Psalms as Scripture
A bracing and illuminating introduction to the Psalms, which succeeds in making deep scholarship accessible, and the plot, patterns and purpose of the Psalter clear. Rich, convincing and worshipful.
—Andrew Wilson, teaching pastor, King's Church London
In Reading the Psalms as Scripture, Hamilton and Damico want you to see the theological profundity of the Psalter, its literary artistry, its connections with earlier and later Scripture, and the messianic hope that points to a new and greater David. This concise volume will enrich your understanding and appreciation of the Psalter because it treats the psalms as Christian literature and Holy Scripture. From superscriptions to textual seams to literary outlines, the Psalter has clues all over the place that we need to follow. Hamilton and Damico are faithful guides to lead the way.
—Mitch Chase, associate professor of biblical studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Introduction
- Reading the Psalms as a Book
- Reading the Psalms with Their Superscriptions
- Reading the Psalms as Individual Compositions
- Reading the Psalms in the Psalter
- Reading the Psalms in Light of Earlier Scripture
- Reading the Psalms and Messianic Typology
- Reading the Psalms as Interpreted by Later Old Testament Authors
- Reading the Psalms as Interpreted by New Testament Authors
- Singing the Psalms as Christians
- Seven Theses on How to Read the Psalms
- Title: Reading the Psalms as Scripture
- Author: James M. Hamilton Jr. and Matthew Damico
- Publisher: Lexham Press
- Publication Date: 2024
- Pages: 160
- Format: Logos Digital, Hardcover
- Trim Size: 5x8
- ISBN: 9781683597766
James M. Hamilton Jr. is professor of biblical theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and senior pastor of Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. He is author of two volumes on Psalms in the Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary and of Typology—Understanding the Bible’s Promise-Shaped Patterns.
Matthew Damico is pastor of worship and operations at Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, and director of Kenwood Music.
Reviews
2 ratings
Aaron Lee
12/5/2024
In Reading the Psalms as Scripture, James M. Hamilton Jr. and Matthew Damico open your eyes to the beauty and brilliance of the psalms. This book reveals the intricate patterns and unique features of the Psalter, ultimately drawing attention to its divine Author. A Cohesive Collection One of the key strengths of the book is how it encourages us to view the Psalms not just as individual poems but as a cohesive collection. I found it particularly thought-provoking how David often described himself in ways that evoke the past while also pointing toward the future. He recognized himself as a prefiguring type of Christ, a theme that resonates throughout the Psalms and adds layers of meaning to his words. One of my favorite encouragements from the book was to read multiple psalms in a single sitting. I had always thought it was best to read one psalm at a time, limiting myself to just one per day. While that method has its merits, reading more allows readers to appreciate the interconnectedness of the Psalter, helping us see how the various psalms speak to one another. It’s perfectly okay to “end up lost in its narrative and at home in God’s word.“ Shaped by Song Another moving point the authors make is how God has shaped his people through the singing of the Psalms, a practice that continues today. This insight reaffirms the enduring power of these texts to nurture our faith and community. By engaging with the Psalms, we participate in a tradition that connects us to God’s people throughout history. Reading the Psalms as Scripture is a wonderful resource that encourages a richer engagement with one of the Bible’s most beloved books. God shaped his people by singing the Psalms, and he still does so to this day. I received a media copy of Reading the Psalms as Scripture and this is my honest review.Christ Follower
11/17/2024