Psalms and Hymns

Psalms & Hymns of Reformed Worship has attracted considerable attention since its issue in 1991, particularly its unique psalter portion entitled - The Spirit of the Psalms. This is the first complete collection of psalm paraphrases and psalm-based hymns of this kind to be issued in Britain for over a century - C H Spurgeon's Our Own Hymn Book of 1866 being the last. Like the classic hymnals of Watts, Rippon and Spurgeon, the first 150 hymn numbers correspond to the 150 psalms of the Bible, although many of the psalms are represented by two or more alternative versions. Altogether there are 266 psalm versions, followed by 591 hymns.

A number of the psalm versions are 'strict' metricals. However, the great majority are evangelical paraphrases (or 'expansions') by Watts, Wesley and many other great names from the world of evangelical hymnody. In their psalm versions, Jewish expressions are all changed into Christian language.

Several different types of paraphrase are included. Some track their psalm very closely to reproduce in praise or prayer the exact sentiments of the original psalm. Some summarise the chief points of a longer psalm. A number amplify one particular theme or topic of the psalm, while a few (in cases where the sentiments of the psalm cannot easily be taken upon the lips of the worshipper) are framed as a response to the message of their psalm. While retaining the more traditional 'Thee' and 'Thou' form of address to the Lord, these psalm versions have been carefully updated to eliminate archaisms and awkward lines. By this greatly modernised revival of the psalm versions of Watts and others the spiritual depths of the psalms may be valued and enjoyed in public worship.

In addition to the psalter portion, the main selection provides hymns classified under all major doctrines and aspects of Christian experience. Many great hymns of the past have been revised and restored to current use. The compilation of Psalms & Hymns was the work of Dr Peter Masters (of the Metropolitan Tabernacle, London), and others, over a period of ten years.

This words-only edition (5½" by 7½") is typeset in ample sized, clear Roman typeface, double column to the page, and case-bound in a deep red, moisture-proof cloth, with the title in gold blocking. 857 hymns, cloth, ISBN 1 870855 09 4