THE WORSHIP OF GOD
Reformed concepts of biblical worship
GreenvillePresbyterian Theological Seminary Conference Lectures, 2003. Christian Focus. 240 pages. £10.99
ISBN 1 84550 055 5
This Presbyterian symposium on worship is valuable, whatever our denominational persuasions.
By ‘worship’, the usual definition is understood: an act of reverence and adoration. The old liberal notion that all of life is worship has recently been revived in evangelical circles. This frequently becomes an excuse for the neglect of worship. A chapter on the purpose of worship by Joseph Pipa Jr., and words used in Scripture, is therefore a valuable contribution.
The seven contributors are concerned with issues raised by the ‘worship wars’ in the USA, which also trouble UK churches: the character of worship and what is and is not permissible according to Scripture. They present the Reformed position based upon the regulative principle that worship must be according to God’s mind.
Terry Johnson, in his chapter on the regulative principle, is particularly stimulating though there is a measure of inflexibility in his conclusions. Both he and Joseph Pipa (on Reformed liturgy) helpfully distinguish between the elements (biblically determined) and forms (containing the elements) and circumstances of worship.
Robert Godfrey provides useful chapters on Calvin’s views, and on the Psalms and Contemporary Worship. An historical survey of worship in Presbyterian churches is given by Morton Smith.
Brian Schwertley is in danger of excommunicating any who do not agree with him in favour of exclusive Psalmody; so Benjamin Shaw’s defence of hymnody comes as something of a relief! Cliff Blair considers whether church choirs have biblical legitimacy.
This excellent book will be of particular value to ministers and church officers, unless they wish to continue in undisturbed prejudice.
