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

by John D. Witvliet

Publisher:

Eerdmans

, 2007

Overview

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, then 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.

Contents

Top Highlights

“In a service that focused on Psalm 73, the following text appeared in the congregation’s bulletin” (Page 69)

“worship also needs to teach us to say things that don’t come naturally to us” (Page 50)

“the Father through Christ, so we always add this or a similar statement which is called the statement of mediation” (Page 24)

“‘O God’; an address with an embellishment might be ‘O living and loving God.’” (Page 24)

“God our needs, and ask for God’s action, usually expressing a desired result;” (Page 24)

Product Details

• Title: The Biblical Psalms in Christian Worship: A Brief Introduction and Guide to Resources
• Author: John D. Witvliet
• Series: The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Liturgical Studies
• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Print Publication Date: 2007
• Logos Release Date: 2016
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subject: Bible. O.T. Psalms › Liturgical use
• ISBNs: 9780802807670, 0802807674
• Resource ID: LLS:BBLCLPSLMSRSRCS
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2022-10-19T16:59:24Z

About John D. Witvliet

John D. Witvliet is director of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and associate professor of music and worship at Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary, respectively. He also teaches in the religion department at Calvin College. His areas of interest include the history of Christian worship, worship practices in various denominations, biblical and systematic theology of worship, the role of music and the arts in worship, and consulting with churches on worship renewal. “At its best, Christian worship reflects and conveys the beauty of God, profound gratitude for the gospel of Christ, and eagerness to deepen self-giving service in God’s world. In my teaching, I hope to invite pastors and worship leaders to plan and lead services that reflect this vision, to offer worship that is both profoundly biblical and culturally relevant. An important part of this learning process is encountering the wisdom of Christian communities in cultures and historical periods very different from our own. Such encounters deepen our sense of solidarity with the whole body of Christ, and also sharpen, humble, and enrich our ministry.” John Witvliet is the author of The Biblical Psalms in Christian Worship: A Brief Ecumenical Introduction and Guide to Resources (Eerdmans, forthcoming), Worship Seeking Understanding: Windows into Christian Practice (Baker Academic, 2003), co-editor of Worship in Medieval and Early Modern Europe: Change and Continuity in Religious Practice (University of Notre Dame Press, 2004), and Proclaiming the Christmas Gospel: Ancient Sermons and Hymns for Contemporary Inspiration (Baker 2004) and editor of A Child Shall Lead: Children in Worship (Choristers Guild, 1999). He serves as editor for two books series-the “Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Liturgical Studies Series” (Eerdmans) and “Vital Worship, Healthy Congregations” (Alban Institute)-as well as co-editor, with Pearl Shangkuan, of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship Music Series (GIA). He is married to Charlotte van Oyen Witvliet, a professor of psychology at Hope College. They are parents of four very active children, Sheila Grace, Kate, Madeline, and Luke.