The breach repaired in God's worship, or, Singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, proved to be an holy ordinance of Jesus Christ with an answer to all objections : as also, an examination of Mr. Isaac Marlow's two papers, one called, A discourse against singing, &c., the other, An appendix : wherein his arguments and cavils are detected and refuted / by Benjamin Keach ...

Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , an Holy Ordinance of Jesus Christ .

CHAP. I. Wherein it is shewed , what Singing is , or what it is to sing , or what the Word doth import .

IT may seem strange to some wise and learned Men , that I begin here ; possibly they will say , there is no need to speak a word about this , for all the World are agreed in the Case ; all know what it is to sing , as well as they know what it is to speak . Though this be true , yet I find a necessity to open this Act of the Bodily Organ , as will appear by what follows ; for some Men , it seems , are so confounded in their Thoughts , that they do not know what Singing is , but think there may be a Singing without the Tongue , taking the word [ Melody in the Heart ] to be all the Singing the Holy Ghost exhorts to in the New Testament ; and so would have us believe there is a mental Singing , as well as mental Praying ; nay , which is worse , would wholly exclude all other Singing besides that , which is very hard ; if they should do so by Prayer , it would strangely amuse all good People , viz. that we must have nothing but Heart-Prayer , without a Voice . Others say , that one Person may be the Mouth in Singing , as well as in Praying ; and so a multitude may be said to sing with him , though there is none sings but that single Man , as in Prayer . A third sort there be , I find , who conclude Singing is wholly comprehended in the Ordinance of Prayer , and from hence please themselves that they do sing , when in Prayer they give Thanks to God , or praise God . But very remarkable it is to see how these Men are confounded by this last Assertion , in respect of one Objection they bring against Singing .

Object . What will you sing your Prayers ? you may as well go to Common-Prayer , &c.

Thus I have heard one or two worthy Men speak , not long since : Why , truly Brethren , it appears you do sing your Prayers , nay , and that always too when you pray ; for I am perswaded you never pray to God for what you want , but you see cause to praise him for what you have received . All that ever wrote of Prayer , that I have met with , do jointly agree , that praising of God , or giving of Thanks , is one part or branch of Prayer , and that part , it appears in your opinion , you sing . And if this be so , pray allow us to sing some Prayers too , and do not charge us with Common-Prayer , unless David's Psalms be a Common-Prayer-Book : And then it will appear that Common-Prayer is of Divine Institution ; nay , and enjoyned on the Churches too in the New Testament ; for we know no Psalms , I mean called so in God's Word , but the Book of Psalms , or Psalms of David .

Now these things being considered , I shall shew you what it is to sing , and so remove these Cavils and Mistakes about it .

I shall not in this Chapter shew you what 't is to sing with the Spirit , or with Grace in the Heart , that respects the right performance of ●inging , but what it is to sing in our common Acceptation , and in Scripture too .

First , It may not be unnecessary to consider of those several distinct and internal Acts of the Mind and Heart of a Man .

Secondly , Of those external Acts of the Tongue of a Man .

1. To think , muse , or meditate , is an inter●al Act of the Mind , wherein the Excellency of the Soul is discovered unto a Man 's own ●elf ; as David saith , I am fearfully and wonderfully made , and that my Soul knoweth right-well , Psal. 139. 14. The Soul has its divers Passions , as Fear , Anger , &c. there lie the Desires ; Sense of Want or Fulness ; 't is the Seat of Joy and Sorrow . But yet nevertheless there are several Acts that the Soul can't do without the bodily Organ ; 't is capable of praying , or to joyn wi●● others in Prayer , without the Tongue ; becaus● there are the Desires ( as I said before ) an● God hears and knows the Groans , Sighs , an● earnest Desires of the Soul , as well as if the● were expressed by words , yet ought the Tongu● to be imployed in that Service notwithstanding and not only for the sake of others who are 〈◊〉 joyn in with them in those servent breathings 〈◊〉 Man may put up to God , but it may be expedient when a Man is alone verbally to express his Desires to the Lord , for several reason● which I shall not mention here , it being not 〈◊〉 our present business : Yet nevertheless the So●● without the Tongue can't preach God's Word can't dispute for it , &c. nor do many othe● things ; neither can the Soul , I say , be said 〈◊〉 sing in a proper sense without the Tongu● True , there is a Metaphorical Singing spok● of in the Scripture , so by a Metonymie the Tre●● of the Wood , and Mountains , and Fields 〈◊〉 said to sing ; and thus , in an improper Sense the Heart may be said to sing , when it on● rejoices in God . Many proper Acts of Me● are often in the Scripture ascribed to Veget●bles and Animal Creatures , and many prop●● Acts of Men are attributed to God .

Fire and Hail , Snow and Vapours , Mountains and all Hills , fruitful Trees and Cedars , Beasts and all Cattel , creeping things , and flying Fowl are exhorted to sing and praise God , Psal. 148. 8 , 9 , 10. which all know they cannot truly and in a proper sense be said to do .

'T is frequent ( as Mr. Caryl observes ) in Scripture to attribute Acts of Life to Lifeless Creatures , and Acts of Reason to those which have no Sense ; the Earth is said to mourn , Tsa . 33. 9. the Trees of the Forest , as the Hills and the Valleys , are said to rejoice , Isa. 65. 12. 13. the Birds praise God , saith he , by their singing , and the Stars by their shining . Caryl on Job , chap. 38. 7.

Now in like manner , if there be any such sort or kind of singing as these Men plead for , viz. a mental singing , i. e. a Heart-singing without the Tongue , mentioned in Scripture , ( tho I must confess I know none ) yet it could be no more a proper singing , than the Blood of Abel , which is said to speak , is a proper speaking : so that if they could shew us in any place of God's Word , where any Godly Man is said to sing , and yet his Voice was not heard , it would signify nothing to their purpose in turning all singing unto Heart-Melody , or inward rejoycing only , without the Tongue expressing of it musically , or in a melodious manner ; for this is just to destroy the Propriety of different Actions and Things said to be done . As to the other Objection , take what Mr. Sid●●●am , in his Treatise of Singing , saith in Answer to this Objection , pag. 208.

Obj. But if one say ( saith he ) when one prays all may be said to pray , tho they do but consent , it may be so in singing of Psalms , &c.

Answ. It is answered , saith he , All Ordinances must be considered according to their proper nature ; some Ordinances are so to be administred , as that only one at once can perform it , as publick Prayer and Preaching , and yet there must be a distinction even in these ; my Silence in Prayer ought to be when I pray with another , and yet I may be said to pray as well as he , which is the mouth of the whole , because my Heart is with him in the same Petitions , and my Desires go equally with him : but in Preaching , where Silence must be likewise from the nature of the Ordinance , yet , tho I consent fully with the Matter , and agree in all that is said with never so much Affection , yet I can't be said to preach , but only he that speaketh preaches . So now as to Singing , there is a difference likewise of another Consideration , if only one sing , none else can be said to sing , tho they joyn with the Matter and agree to it in their Hearts ; for it is an outward Act , and terminated in the Person that performs it : And tho in my silent Conjunction , I may readily praise God , yet I can in no sense be properly said to sing with others , without I do use my Voice and bodily Organs as they do . This Consideration , saith he , may give light to Men that mind the nature and distinction of Ordinances in their Administrations ; that which is the Confusion of other Ordinances , is the Beauty of this ; for two to preach or pray together at the same time and place , were the greatest Confusion imaginable ; but for an hundred to sing together , is most harmonious and pleasant , so far from the breach of Order , that Harmony is most discovered by it . So far Mr. Sidenham .

I hope our Brethren do not think there is Confusion in Heaven , where the Heavenly Host with one Voice-celebrate the Praises of God by singing to him .

2. Further , to prove that Singing properly can't be done without the Voice , it is material to observe the Hebrew word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Psal. 104. 12. where our Dictionaries , as well as our Annotators on the Bible , shew it signifies giving a Voice , and such a Voice too , that is melodious in Odulation , or tuning the Voice . And , saith Reverend Dr. Roberts , To limit Singing only in the Heart , and inward Melody of the Spirit , is utterly besides the Apostle's intent , and contrary to the nature of Singing , and destructive to all Edification or Advantage to others by Singing . Where do we read of singing in all the Scripture without a Voice ? How gross , saith he , and ignorant a Contradiction in the Adject , and absurd Nonsense is it to talk of singing in the Heart without a Voice . Dr. Roberts's Key of the Bible , p. 177.

Moreover , Mr. Caryl , whose Learning and excellent Parts and Wisdom shines ( tho dead ) through the World , positively affirms , That Singing is an Act of the Voice , on Job 38. 7. So that it appears from hence , tho there is Heart-Prayer , Mental-Prayer , and that may be said as properly to be Prayer , tho the Voice be not heard ( as in Hannah's Case ) as that which is vocal , yet there is no proper singing but that which is performed with the Tongue .

3. Were it not so , all Mankind are and would be mistaken in one of the common Acts of the bodily Organs , and not be able to resolve so plain a Question , What is it to sing ? or what is singing ? But so easy a Question is this to be answered , that every Child can readily resolve it , that is not above six or seven Years old ; nay , if a Turk , Indian or Pagan should come into our Assemblies , that understands not one word of English , and so can't distinguish in other Acts of Worship the one from the other , yet if he hears us a singing , he knows what that is ; and if but one Man sings ( tho the rest may shew their liking or approbation of it ) if any should say they all sing , every one would say he told a Lie , there was but one Man only who sung ; but in Prayer , that being an Act of Worship , that may be performed without the Voice , 't is quite another thing , all may be said to pray , tho but one is the Mouth .

Now this being so , what is become of Mr. Marlow's Essence of Singing ? for tho I shall not answer his Book until I come to the main Objections ; yet what he speaks in that place , and upon that occasion , I shall take notice of ●ere . Now ( saith he ) what can be more plain , ●han that Singing , and other Gifts of the holy Spirit , have their Essence in our Spirits , wherein we are capable of worshipping God , without Verbal and Vocal Instruments of the Body ? These are his very words .

I answer , Some have so smiled at this Expression , that they can't tell what he intends by ●t , unless he would shew himself skill'd in Chymistry . But since he meddles with Divine Things , I must confess I am troubled to see such kind of words used , that no Body knows what to make of them : By Essence of a thing , I always understood the Substance or Being of a thing : Now if the Substance and Being of Sing●ng , and other Gifts of the Spirit , ( by which I suppose he means other Duties of God's Worship which are to be performed by those Gifts , ) ●ie in our Spirits , and may be , wihtout distinction , performed acceptably to God , without Verbal or Vocal Instruments of the Body , ●hen farewel to Verbal or Vocal Preaching and Praying too : It grieves my Soul to see the Ho●y Truths of God's Worship invaded . Is not the Essence of Preaching in our Spirits , as much as the Essence of Singing is there ? And are we not as capable in our Spirits to worship God , in all other Ordinances , without the Verbal or Vocal Instruments of the Body , as well as in Singing without Voice , by your Argument ? And let me tell you , you have said more to justify the Quakers Silent Meetings than you are aware of : Nay , 't is an Argument , as far as I know , they may thank you for ; but by this way of reasoning , there is no mo●● need of the poor Body to glorify God in his Worship ; and our Glory , ( viz. our Tongue ) is brought to shame hereby ; and 't is no less 〈◊〉 to rob God of the Glory of his Holy Ordinances , and his Church , and every particular Saint , of the use and comfort of them , so far as 〈◊〉 Body or Members thereof are employed in 〈◊〉 about them , they being of no use at all ; And what is this , but to turn all outward or external Worship , into a spiritual , inward , or heart-business ?

The Essence of Singing then , ( if that word may be admitted ) lies no more in our Spiri● than the Essence of Preaching , &c. And sha●● the Quakers , or any other deceived People 〈◊〉 Person , say , ( when they meet together to preach , pray , or sing the Praises of God ) tha● in their Spirits they have the Essence of tho●● Duties , and so perform them to God , notwithstanding there is not one of them verbally and vocally done ; certainly nothing can be more ridiculous . Besides the main part ( Essence too , if you please ) nay the whole of Singing , lies in the Voice . I speak of the act , or thing 〈◊〉 self , not of a right spiritual and Gospel-Performance of it , for he may be said to preach , who has not the Spirit of God to assist him in the doing of it , ( nor is he affected with what he says ) as properly as he that preaches spiritually , or by the assistance of the Holy Ghost in his own Heart . Doubtless , Birds sing as truly as any Men can be said so to do ; and so do those who sing prophane Songs ; t●ere's all the parts of Singing manifested in their Act , so much difference there is between the doing of an Act , or Work , and the Manner , Design , Spirit , and End , in performing of it .

Fourthly , to proceed , By Singing of Psalms , Hymns and Spiritual Songs , therefore , we understand a musical melodious Modulation , or tuning of the Voice , expressing our spiritual Joy for edifying one another , and for glorifying of God .

1. And that this is all the Singing the Holy Scripture speaks of , and is meant or intended therein , will yet further appear , if we consider these things following .

First , 'T is called the making of a joyful Noise ; Sing a loud unto God our strength : make a joyful Noise unto the God of Jacob , Psal. 81. 1. O 〈◊〉 let us sing unto the Lord , let us make a joyful Noise to the Rock of our Salvation , Psal. 95. 1. Let us come before his Presence with Thanksgiving , and make a joyful Noise unto him with Psalms , vers. 2. So in Psal. 98. 4 , 5 , 6. & 100. 1 , 2. this is the Singing the Holy Ghost bears witness of ; 't is not meerly that in Word , Joy or rejoycing in Spirit , but an expressing of it wi●● a melodious Voice , or by making of a joyful Noise unto the Lord .

Secondly , What the act of Singing is , or what it is to sing , may be easily manifested by the Birds of the Air , those melodious Notes they make , God in his Word ( Cant. 2. 12. ) calls Singing ; and 't is easy to know when they sing , and when they do not ; and 't is as easy to know when the Lord's People sing , and which of them sing , and who do not , if Men will not shut their Eyes and Ears , against an Ordinance of Christ , and in opposing of it , render themselves ridiculous to Mankind .

Thirdly , Singing is distinguished from Prayer , as another thing differing from any part or branch of it ; and that by the great Apostle himself , and therefore it cannot be comprehended in that great Duty ; What is it then ? I will pray with the Spirit , and I will pray with the Vnderstanding also : I will sing with the Spirit , and I will sing with the Vnderstanding also , 1 Cor. 14. 15.

Prayer , all Expositors affirm , consisteth in three parts ( as I hinted before ) : 1. In confession of Sin , &c. 2. In supplication for what we stand in need of . And , 3. In giving of Thanks , or in Praising of God with raised affections , for what Mercies we have received from him . As if the Apostle should say , I will confess my Sins and Wants to God by ●he help of God's Spirit , and with the inward ●ttention , and utmost intention of my own ●pirit , or greatest devotion and Fervour of Af●ections imaginable ; and so will I seek to him , ●nd supplicate his holy Majesty for what I ●ant , and so will I praise him , and give ●hanks to him for all the good things I have ●eceived at his most bountiful Hands . See our ●ate Annotation , Phil. 4. 6. They mention there a Petition or Apprecation of Good to our selves or others ; and also in Prayer , a Deprecation of Evils felt or feared . 3. A grateful acknowledgment of Mercies received , Benefits conferred , and Deliverances vouchsafed ; Implying ( saith he ) that no Prayer is acceptable to God without this Ingredient of thankful resentment of his Favours . Nor can I think that any gracious Soul doth ever leave out this sweet and great part of Prayer when he is at the Throne of Grace , viz. Praising of God : Therefore this the Apostle would do when he prayed . But observe , besides this , and as something quite distinct from it , he adds , And when I sing , I will sing with the Spirit , &c. If therefore Singing were comprehended in Prayer , or praising of God when we pray unto him , then the Apostle uses as great and palpable a Tautology as can possibly be ; nay , and leaves all Men under a Cloud and Mistake , if he meant nothing else ( or no more ) than praising of God in Prayer ; since all the World ever understood a clear distinct difference between those two things , viz. Prayer , or praising of God , and singing of his Praises : for though all right Singing to God is a praising of him , ( nay , and in the highe●● manner that we in our mortal Bodies are capable to do ; ) yet all praisings of God are not singing of his Praise . Moreover , the difference there between Prayer , &c. and Singing , 〈◊〉 clearly hinted by the Apostle James , where he exhorts those in Affliction in an extraordinary manner to pray : James 5. 13. Is any afflicted ? let him pray . And is any merry ? let them sing Psalms . Certainly he wills the Afflicted to praise God , as well as to pray unto him , but to such who are merry , or whose Hearts were greatly lifted up , or affected with the Love , Mercy and Goodness of God , why then , and upon such Occasions , to sing , ye● , to sing Psalms . In which words , by the way , 't is worth noting , to observe , that the Apostle stirs up Christians to perform these Duties more than in an ordinary manner at such● Times and Occasions : for 't is a Man's Duty to pray whether he be afflicted or no ; and so in like manner 't is a Man's Duty to sing the Praises of God , whether he hath such an extraordinary cause and special frame of Spirit upon him , or not .

Fourthly , 'T is easy to conceive of Singing , or to know what it is , if we consider how it differs from meer rejoicing in the Lord ; for a Man may rejoice in Spirit , when he doth not signify it by Singing of Praises . 'T is said , our ●viour rejoiced in Spirit , Luke 10. 21. and ●anked his Father ; yet 't is not said he sung ; 〈◊〉 Joy is inward , not known till expressed ; ●●d many times 't is expressed by Singing , tho ●●t always : The end why I mention this , is to ●ew they are two different Acts and Duties ; 〈◊〉 I am enjoined to rejoice , so I am enjoined so from that Joy to sing , Jam. 5. 13.

Fifthly , and lastly , to pass over this ; Sing●g is a Duty performed always with the Voice , ●ad can't be done without the Tongue , we may ●ather from the Noise it maketh to the hearing ●f others ; as it is noted in the Scripture : See ●xod . 32. 17. And when Joshua heard the Noise 〈◊〉 the People as they shouted , he said unto Mo●s , There is War in the Camp . Ver. 18. And 〈◊〉 said , It is not the Voice of them that shout 〈◊〉 Mastery , neither is it the Voice of them that ●●●y for being overcome ; but the Noise of them ●at sing , do I hear . They that doubt about ●hat the Act of Singing is , I desire them to ●nsider this Text well , in which 't is to be ob●●ved , that there are several distinct Acts vo●lly performed by the Tongue , and all Man●nd easily distinguish the one from the other , ●nless depraved in their Minds , or under a De●●sion and Temptation of Satan .

1. There is a shouting Noise of the Tongue , ●nd all Mankind know what it is , and can ●eadily resolve any Person about it , when he ●istinctly hears it .

2. There is , it appears , a crying Noise likewise .

3. There is a preaching Voice , or a Noise made that way .

4. A praying , or praising Voice .

5. A singing Voice . And all these distinct from each other .

Moses could readily resolve the Doubt that was upon Joshua , when he lent his Ear to hearken to the Noise of the People . Truly I am almost ashamed I have this occasion to speak , and to be so large upon it ; but knowing what I have met withal , from some poor , weak , and doubting Christians , who stumble at Noon-day about the very Act of Singing , not knowing what it is , or at least raise such Objections against it , I have thought good to begin here , and if this may but satisfy them , I shall bless God for what I have said in all plainness ; and do know it makes an easy Passage to the next Chapter , wherein I shall , by God's Assistance , prove Singing ( yea such a Singing , there being no other known to Mankind ) an Holy Ordinance of God , and to be practised in the Congregation of Christians , and in Private also ; only let me conclude this Chapter with two Inferences .

1. If this be so ; then we may naturally infer from hence , that all such who never sing the Praises of God with a Vocal Melody , notwithstanding all those sweet Rejoicings they may have in the Spirit at any time , never sing at all . And if Singing be that which the Great God looks for from , and enjoins upon his People , and every one of them , that then they lie short of their Duty , and want an Ordinance . Moreover , if it be our Duty , and that which belongs to God , it is to take away one great part of his glorious Praise , yea , the highest manner of performance of it we are capable of ; and so it is a robbing of the Holy God , as well as it deprives their own Souls , and the Souls of others of much sweet and Heavenly Joy and Refreshment .

We may also infer , that those , who think they may be said to sing with him that sings , when they approve of the Matter of his Song , and are affected with it , are mistaken , seeing there is no proper mental or Heart-singing , or joining that way with others in Singing , as there is in the Duty and Ordinance of Prayer . For all may be said as well to preach , who like and approve of what a Preacher saith , as they may be all said to sing , who sit and hear one Man sing with delight , when they themselves hold their peace and sing not .

CHAP. II Wherein 't is clearly demonstrated , and proved , that Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , is an Holy Ordinance of God , and part of Gospel-Worship , and continues an Ordinance for ever , by the Antiquity of it .

Arg. 1. MY first Argument shall be taken from the Antiquity of this Practice , 't is as ancient as this World ; the World , and Singing of the Praise of God , came even in together , or very near each other . I have respect to that triumphant Singing of the Angels .

When Jehovah laid the Foundation of the Earth , Job 38. When the Morning Stars sang together , and all the Sons of God shouted for Joy .

I find an Eminent Writer paraphrasing thus on these words , viz. Where wast thou when I laid the Foundation of the Earth ? &c. at which sight the Morning Stars sang together , and all the Sons of God shouted for Joy . Taking the words as carrying an Allusion to , or a Similitude taken from some noble Buildings or Structures , whose Foundations use to be laid with Solemnity , and with Singing or shouting Acclamations .

See Mr. Caryl on the Place , who after he hath given several Opinions of Men about these Morning Stars , some supposing they mean the Stars in the Firmament of Heaven , he gives two Reasons to prove , by them are meant the Angels of God .

There are some ( saith he ) who take these Stars Metaphorically or Figuratively , for the Angels , and then their Singing is proper : And there are two Reasons given why , by the Stars in this place , we should understand the Angels .

First , If we consider the Truth or Course of the History ; because the Earth being created the first Day , the Stars were not in being till the Fourth ; unless we comprehend them ( as was said before ) as to their Matter and Reality , under those words of Moses , In the beginning God created the Heaven and the Earth . But as to their Appearance and Formality , so they were not till the fourth Day ; and if so , how could they sing together the Praises of God at the laying the Foundation of the Earth ?

A second Reason is given from this Chapter afterwards , Vers. 31 , 32. Canst thou bind the sweet Influences of the Pleiades ? ( or seven Stars ) or loose the Bands of Orion ? &c. Here the Lord treats with Job about the Stars in proper Senses ; therefore probably the Morning Stars here mentioned , are not to be taken Properly , but Tropically , for the Angels . And then he goes on to prove how fitly the Angels may be called Stars , &c. And from this of the Stars or Angels Singing , he infers ;

First , Singing is an Act of Divine Worship , they sang to the Glory of God .

Note , Secondly , saith he , Singing is an Expression of Joy : 'T is very remarkable the Angels sang at God's bringing forth the first Creation , to teach us our Duty , and how we should celebrate the Praises of Jehovah , by Singing for the Works of the first Creation ; doubtless this was , and is , the Will of God , and we are to pray that we may do the Will of God on Earth , as the Angels do it in Heaven , i. e. do what is his Will , and do it so , viz. with all readiness Mr. Caryl tells us , They are not worthy to be reckoned Sons of God , who have not a readiness , or present disposition in them , to join with all , or any of his true Sons in this Work to celebrate the Praises of God at his graciou● Appearances in his mighty Works of Mercy , &c.

Secondly , As the Angels sang at God's laying the Foundation of the first Creation , so also they sang at the beginning , or bringing in the second Creation , as Mr. Caryl also observes , even at the Birth of Christ , they sang , Glory to God on High , and on Earth Peace , good Will to Men. To teach us that as we should sing the Praises of God for the Works of Creation , and so much the more for the Work of Redemption . Shall they sing to see the good Will of God towards us , and shall we be dumb ? Shall we , who are thus raised to Glory , and magnified by the mighty God , not sing , or imitate the Angels , to join together , with united Voices , to sing and celebrate his Praises ?

When the Disciples rejoiced and sang those Hosannahs to Jesus Christ , Blessed be the King that cometh in the Name of the Lord ; Peace in Heaven , and Glory in the Highest , Luke 19. 38. the envious Pharisees , saith Mr. Caryl , did not like the Musick ; and therefore said unto him , from among the Multitude , Master , Rebuke thy Disciples . By this it appears , that the Devil is a great Enemy to Singing ; he does not love such Hosannahs and Praises should be sung to Jesus Christ ; he it is that rules in the Hearts of the Children of Disobedience ▪ and 't was he , no doubt , that influenced and stirred up these Pharisees with Envy , to have Christ's Disciples rebuked for singing and praising him in such a high and triumphant manner . Take heed , you that are God's People , ( who do 〈◊〉 see it is your Duty to sing Hosannahs to Christ ) you do not forbid others so to do , lest you are found in doing of it , to degrade the Holy Jesus , and take from him ( through the Temptation of Satan ) part of the chiefest Glory that is due to his glorious Name . For , pray observe the Answer of our Lord Jesus to those blind Pharisees , Vers. 10. I tell you , if these should hold their Peace , the Stones would immediately cry out : as if he had said , you labour in vain to suppress or hinder these to sing my Praises , or to give Glory unto me ; for should they be silent , the Stones would cry shame of them for neglecting their Duty ; and God would rather cause sensless Creatures to proclaim his Praise , than to want it .

Object . But some may say , 'T is not said they s●ng .

Answ. There is no doubt to be made but they sung ; all generally understand those Hosannahs were delivered in a Song . Our Annotators hint , that it might be the name of a Song that was used to be sung in Festivals .

Moreover they tell you , that the Expressions seem to be taken out of Psal. 118. 24 , 25 , 26. Also they were uttered as with one Voice . The whole Multitude of the Disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud Voice , Luke 19. 3● and uttered these words , Hosanna , blessed it he that cometh in the Name of the Lord ; Hosannah in the highest . As God always was praised with Singing , so now they seem to be raised with holy Triumph , to express his Praise in the highest manner , and therefore they sung .

But that I may close this , take one or two Arguments .

Arg. 1. If Angels in Singing do the Will of God , do that which is pleasing and acceptable to God , and in so doing worship God ; then Singing , or to sing , is the Will of God , well-pleasing to him , and is acceptable in his sight , and is a part of his Worship . But Angels , in Singing , do the Will of God , do that which is well-pleasing to him , and acceptable in his sight , ●and in so doing they worship him . Ergo , To sing , is to do the Will of God , 't is well-pleasing to him , and acceptable in his sight , and in so doing we worship him .

I never met with any that deny Angels to sing the Praises of Jehovah , but all as one Man grant , 't is part of their great Work and Business . And this being so , my Argument needs no Confirmation , but is unanswerable .

Arg. 2. If Heaven , and all the Host of Heaven , or all that is therein , and Earth , and all that is in it , are commanded by the Holy Ghost to sing the Praises of God ; then 't is the Duty of Men and Angels to sing his Praise . But Heaven , and all the Host of Heaven , and all that is therein , 〈◊〉 Earth , and all that is in it , are so commanded to do . Ergo , 'T is the Duty of Men and Angels to sing the Praises of God . See Psal. 148. There , and in divers other places , all in Heaven and Earth , all are commanded to praise God in the Heights ; that is , to sing Hallelujahs , as the Hebrew word signifies , Vers. 1.

CHAP. III. Proving Singing the Praises of God to be a Moral Duty .

OUR third Argument to prove Singing 〈◊〉 Ordinance of God , shall be taken from the Nature of the Duty it self , which generally worthy Men call a Moral Duty , as well as it is brought under express Institution , and so consequently a Branch of natural Worship . And now , because some weak Christians are offended at this Phrase , viz. calling Singing a part of natural or moral Worship or Religion , I shall explain what we mean when we speak thus . First of all , not but that 't is a spiritual Ordinance , and a positively Law : but we must distinguish between Precepts that are purely Moral , and meerly Positive . Breaking of Bread , and Holy Baptism , are meer positive Ordinances : and they had never been known nor practised , if there had not been a positive Institution to give being to them ; but to fear God , to love God , to pray to God , and divers other Precepts of the same Nature , had been the Duty of all Man-kind , if there had been no written Law or Prescription positively to injoin them on the Creature ; and that by the Law or Light o● God in the Conscience of Men ; as Paul sheweth in Rom. 2. 14 , 15. For when the Gentiles which have not the Law , do by nature the things contained in the Law ; those having not the Law , are a Law unto themselves , which shew the Work of the Law written in their hearts . All Mankind throughout the World know , by that of God written in their Hearts , they ought not to wrong their Neighbours , they ought not to Steal , nor commit Adultery , nor Kill , &c. They are taught , in a word , the substance of the whole moral Law of God hereby , if not wholly darkned and obliterated by their Sin and horrid Lusts . Even so we say , if there had been no written Law , or positive Injunction , to pray , and sing the Praises of God , yet the Light of Nature would have taught us thus to do .

Remarkable is that passage of Moses in Gen. 4. Then began Men to call upon the Name of the Lord ] . Ainsworth sheweth that the Text is taken two manner of ways , the Chaldee in the Masovites Bible saith , Then in his days Men left off Praying , or became prophane , so that they prayed not in the Name of the Lord .

Others understand it directly the contrary way , i. e. Then Men begun to pray , or call on the Name of the Lord , or erected publick Worship , Preaching in the Name of the Lord . So Ainsworth .

Take it either way , it appears they knew it was their Duty to Pray and Preach ; yet there was no positive Law , or written Precept for either in those Days , nor ▪ for many Years after , even till Moses came ; so that 't is clear , these are parts of moral or natural Worship .

And so is Singing no doubt : for as all the Heathen generally invocate their Gods , pray to them , so they sing their Praises , as might abundantly be demonstrated .

And what is more clear ( further to evince this ) than that Passage of the Children of Israels's Singing after their great Deliverance at the Red Sea , Exod. 15. 1. Then sang Moses , and the Children of Israel this Song , &c.

Either they did it by the Dictates of their own Conscience , as a part of Divine Homage due to God , from the Law or Light of God in their own Hearts , to magnify him for That wonderful Salvation , or else by some special means of Inspiration or Injunction from the Lord , though I incline to the former . Plain it is , this was before the Law was given forth , or there were any written Prescription or Rule to walk by ; which clearly shews , take it either way , it was no Levitical Ceremony ( as some are ready to assert ) but a Duty it was , and it has been practised by multitudes that never had any knowledg of the Scripture or positive Precepts .

Further , to confirm what we have said upon this respect , i. e. that Singing the Praises of God is a moral Duty , and a part of God's natural Worship , as well as Prayer , take what Mr. Robert's says ; Singing of Psalms , &c. to God with the Voice ( saith he ) seems to be part of God's natural Worship ; which upon due consideration of God's Nature , Man by the Light of Nature should perform to him , though there were no particular Law requiring it , nor Institution appointing it .

For , 1. Singing of Psalms , &c. to God , is a king of Prayer ; a Prayer , not in Prose , but in Meeter , with Melody . The Apostle joins them together as of like Nature . And who can be so gross as to deny Prayer to be part of God's natural Worship ?

2. Singing of Songs to God , was practised by God's People at the Red Sea , before the Law was given forth , or any particular Law for that Duty .

3. Singing the Praises of God is a Duty of the first Commandment , peculiarly requiring all natural Worship to be performed to him ; and so it is ranked by the Godly Learned ; and say , Singing with Heart and Voice is a Moral Worship , such as is written in the Hearts of Men by Nature . As to pray in distress , so when we have cause of solemn Thanksgiving unto God , to sing his Praises . Now , saith he , that which is a part of God's natural moral Worship , is a Duty under the New Testament , as well as under the Old , natural Worship is always and in all times a Duty obliging , semper , tho not ad semper . Doubtless even the Pagans by the Light and Law of Nature , are bound to sing Praises unto God , for his invisible Excellencies made known to them by his visible Works of Creation and Providence , tho they never come to the Knowledg of the Scriptures , of Psalms and Songs . Roberts's Key to the Bible , pag. 172.

But further , to evince this , and make it appear yet plainer , that it is without all doubt ● Moral Duty to sing forth the Praises of God , I might argue thus ; All Men are to pray to God ; every one saith Prayer is a Moral Duty , then all are bound to praise him , since Praise is comprehended in Prayer , as a branch or part of it . This being granted readily by all , I further argue ; Ought not every Person then to perform this Duty of praising of God in the highest and most acceptable manner they are capable to do ? none to be sure will deny this ; why then , say I , they are all therefore taught to sing by natural or moral Principles 't is evident .

First , Because to sing forth the Praises of God or Man , is the highest manner or mode of praising , either God or Man , that we know of or are able to attain unto : which doth appear .

1. Because when any Man naturally is filled with Joy and Gladness , or sees extraordinary cause of rejoicing , he by a natural Instinct falls into singing , all the World knows this is so . Now who is he on such occasions bound to rejoice in● and sing to , but the Lord only , who gave him those good things he possesseth , or delivered him from those evil things he seared ? and so upon the one account or other filled his Soul with Joy and Gladness . Why ought the Saints particularly to rejoice in Christ Jesus , and sing to him , but because all that Good their Souls are made partakers of , is in and through him ? Why did the People break forth into those sweet and triumphant Songs of Praise to David , when they sang , Saul hath slain his thousands , and David his ten thousands ? was it 〈◊〉 from the Consideration of those singular Blessings and Victories they had received from David , and hoped further to partake of from his Hands , as an Instrument in the Hand of God ? And if Moral Principles lead People forth thus upon all occasions of this nature to sing to the Instrument of Blessings and Salvation , how much more to the great Agent and Author of them , viz. the great God of Heaven and Earth ? who will not give his Glory in another , &c.

2. Because this way of praising of God by singing , is called by the Holy Ghost a praising of him in the Heights , or as the heavenly Hosts Praise God with Allelujahs , or in the highest manner ; Praise ye the Lord , praise ye the Lord in the heights , Psal. 148. 1. Praise ye him all his Angels ; praise ye him all his Hosts vers. 2. See Ainsworth .

The Angels singing forth God's Praises , there can be no higher way doubtless to praise 〈◊〉 than that way by which the glo●●●●s S●●●●●ims and Cherubims do express and perform 〈◊〉 Also all the Godly in every Age have ●●●ified it as their stedfast Belief ( as well as ●●e holy Scriptures bear Witness to it ) that this is the way by which the glorified Saints in Heaven do , and we with them shall , when we come thither , celebrate the Praises of God , viz. by Singing ; therefore this of singing forth the Praises of God is the highest and be●●●●y and manner Praises can be given to the ●ord .

Secondly , All Creatures are called upon to praise God , to sing to him . Now surely the Holy Ghost would not have injoyned this on all that have Breath , if it did not belong to them ; and that which all Men are , and ought to do , is certainly a Moral Duty ; nay , 't is evident there are more Precepts that injoin all Men to sing the Praises of God in the Old Testament , than there are for them to pray unto him : which seems to be done as if it were on purpose to silence those Mens Spirits ( whom the Holy Ghost might foresee would in some Age or another oppose this sacred Ordinance ; ) and so more reason to repeat it than that of Prayer , that never was opposed or cavill'd against .

Thirdly , That Faculty ( as one observes ) which God hath placed in Men to praise him in an harmonious or a melodious manner , shews that it is a moral Duty belonging to all Men ( tho more especially the Saints of God ) to be found in the Practice of singing forth his Praise . God , who made nothing in vain , but all things for his own Glory , even the Tongue of little Birds to warble forth with their pleasant Notes the Praises of their Creator amongst the branches of the Trees , Psal. 104. 12. Who made our Tongues , and placed that singing Faculty in them but the Almighty ? We see all Men and Women more or less are naturally as apt and ready to sing as to speak . Now was this tunable and musical Tongue , or that Faculty of Si●●ing , not given to us and to all Mortals , think you , to sing forth the Praises of our Creator ? Can any be so weak as to think it was given to be imployed to sing any other Songs , but such as are sacred and divine ? If it be a great abuse of the Tongue , or rather a Dishonour to God , for any to imploy their Tongues to sing profane and carnal Songs , that stir up Lust , and promote Ungodliness , as all will say doubtless it is ; then it follows clearly , this tunable or melodious note or faculty of Singing that God hath placed in the Tongue , can be for no other reason , but that thereby , viz. with a sweet and melodious manner , they , nay all of them , might discharge this Duty of singing the Praises of the Almighty God . And indeed upon this account , as well as any other ( or more than upon any other ) the Tongue may be called our Glory , i. e. because thereby we , in the highest manner we are capable of , do praise and laud the Name of God in singing and setting forth that Glory that is owing to him from

Now if to sing God's Praise we●● not the Duty of all Men , it would follow , God hath given them one Faculty in that Member for no use : But of use it is , and Men will use it too ; they will sing , and , say I , they may , nay more , they ought ; but not to the Dishonour of God , not filthy , or vain and foolish Songs , but such as may be to the Glory and Honour of his Name , who made all Creatures and Things for his own Praise . And since Mankind are naturally thus inclined to Singing , and that this natural Gift and Faculty might be improved ( as all others ) to the Honour of God , who ( as Austine , in his Preface to the Psalms , observes ) has left in his Word , what they should sing , and how to perform that Moral Duty : Spiritus Sanctus videns obluctantem ad virtutis viam humani generis animam , ad delect ati●nes hujus vitae inclinari , delect abilibus mod●lis Cantilenae vim suae Doctrinae permiscuit , ut dum servitate carmine mulcetur auditu● divini sermonis pariter utilitate miseratur . The Holy Ghost seeing the Soul of Mankind strugling in the way of Godliness , and being inclined to the Delights of this Life , he mixed the Power of his Doctrine with sweet Singing , that whilst the Soul was melted with the sweetness of the Verse , the hearing of the Divine Word might be ingrafted with profit . Austin in his Preface to the Psalms .

Object . I know it is objected , Hath not God given to the Tongue a faculty to laugh as well as to sing ? and , is it their Duty to laugh ?

Answ. There is no doubt to be made , but to laugh at some time is lawful and good , it may be done without Sin , though in much laughter there wants not Folly . Man has not that Faculty in vain ; and many will tell you , it is found in some Distempers very good for the Body , and tends to remove them too ; besides , it may refresh the natural Spirits , when suppressed with Melancholy Gogitations . But what a trifling Objection is this ! for as the one seems to be disallowed , unless it be on some special Occasions , so the other is given , it appears , on a far more excellent and subli●e Account and Consideration , with frequent Injunctions to be found in it , which is not to be found of Laughter ; therefore away with such contentious reasoning , against Reason and Scripture too . God hath injoined you to sing Psalms , &c. to hi● that dwelleth in Sion , Psal. 9. 11. Singing forth the H●●●ur and Praise of his Name , Psal. 66. 2. That doth wondrous Works for the Children of Men , for his Mercy endures forever , Psal. 107. 8. And so much the more ought Saints to be found in it , because he delights to hear the sweet Voice of his Church . Cant. 2. 14. Let me hear thy Voice , for sweet is thy Voice , &c. not only of Prayer , but of such sweet Praises too , no doubt . Christ's Ear is affected with this harmonious Praise , when performed by his own Spirit with Grace in our Hearts ; it also elevates and carries up our Spirits to him . The Cloud of the Lord 's Divine Presence ( saith one ) descended not before , but when the Trumpets and Singers were as one , to make one Sound to be heard in praising and giving Thanks to the Lord ; and when they lifted up their Voices in Praises to him , saying , For he is good , for his Mercy endureth for ever : then the Lord bowed his Ear , and vouchsafed his gracious Presence to his People ; then the House was filled 〈◊〉 a Cloud , even the House of the Lord , 2 Ch●● . 5. 13.

Then God takes possession of it as his Dwelling-place , he is so affected with the Praises of his People , when in a right manner they sing to set forth his Glory . And ( as he minds ) for the neglect of this Ordinance in the Church , viz. the not improving our Tongues and Faculties , by the Assistance of the Holy Ghost , in Singing the Praises of God , he may withhold the Influences of his Spirit , and may not be found to that deg●●● in his Dwelling-place .

Fourthly , We may perceive what the Nature of this Ordinance of Singing is , if we consider how often it is in the Holy Scripture joined with Prayer . When we are exhorted to pray to him , to worship him , we are called upon also to sing his Praises . And thus Paul seems to join them together in his practice , When I pray , I will pray in the Spirit , &c. and when I sing , I will sing with the Spirit , &c. 1 Cor. 14. 15. So doth the Apostle James join them together , as of equal Worth , Nature , and Authority , James 5. 13.

From all which Considerations , it appears , ●inging is of the same Nature with Prayer , even a Moral Duty . These things I thought good to communicate to the consideration of all , especially for the sake of some weak Christians .

Object . What , you then ( say some ) plead for a natural or carnal thing , natural Religion and Worship . Away with your Singing , we thought all our Religion ought to be Spiritual .

Answ. We plead for Spiritual Worship as well as you , and say , That all the Parts of Religious Duties must be Spiritual , or they will not be accepted of God . But what is this to the purpose ? Divers Ordinances , in their original and proper Nature , are Moral , and part of natural Worship : Is not Prayer in particular by all acknowledged so to be ? And may not Prayer be carnally performed too , as well as Singing ? nay , and so may any other Ordinance of Christ . Another Man will tell you , whilst you plead for Prayer , you plead for a Moral Duty , and a Branch of natural Worship : But doth that detract from its Glory ? No sure , all wise Men know it adds greatly to it .

Cornelius ( Act. 10. 1 , 2 , 3. ) was a Man much in Prayer , tho a Gentile , and without the knowledg of the Gospel , ( or Law either , as far as we know ) ; So the Mariners which were with Jonah in the Ship , in their Distress , ( tho Heathens ) 't is said , every Man called upon his God , Jonah 1. 5. But why shall any call Singing a low or carnal thing ? they have the least reason so to term it of any Ordinan●● performed by the Spirit : Pray , are Angels sound in any carnal Ordinance , or th●●lorified Saints in Heaven ? What Ordinance can shine more glorious and subli●● in its Nature , than this of Singing Psalms , Hymns and Spiritual Songs , if this be duly considered ? But as to the true or right manner of performance of this Duty , as in all others , we must have our recourse to the Word of God .

For though Prayer is a Moral Duty , yet it is commanded , and also the manner prescribed how to be performed as acceptable to God ; so is Preaching likewise : ( Yet every Man , by the Light of Nature , is taught to instruct his Children and Servants , nay , and his Neighbours too as Matters may present ) : So is Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , brought under express Institution . 'T is required and enjoined on the Churches and Saints of God in the Gospel-days , with Matter and Manner how to be performed , ( as shall hereafter , before I have done , God assisting ) be fully proved : so that 't is a mistake in our Brethren , to think we pl●●● for any natural Religion that is Carnal or Fleshly . Though divers Precepts were Moral in their own Nature , and so part of natural Worship due to God from his Creatures , and known without the written Word , ( the Duty I mean ) though not the Manner how to be performed . And from the whole I draw this third Argument .

Arg. 3. That Duty , which in its Original or Primitive Nature is Moral , and a Branch of Natural Worship , or Religion , as well as it is given forth by Divine Institutio● is the i●●●spensable Duty of all the Lord's People for ever ●o be found in the practice of . But Singing the Praises of the Lord , is a Duty or Ordinance , ●n its Original or Primitive Nature , that is Moral , and a Branch of Natural Worship or Religion , as well as it is given forth by Divine ●nstitution . Ergo , Singing of the Praises of God , is the indispensable Duty of all the Lord's People for ever .

All Men know Laws or Duties which are Moral in their own Nature , lay all Men under a perpetual Obligation : And that Singing is of such a Nature , let what we have said be well considered . Hereafter , if I am answered , I shall say more to it , if God please to spare my Life .

CHAP. VIII . Proving Singing of Psalms , &c. an Ordinance of Christ from the Practice of the Saints , before the Law , in the Law , and under the Gospel .

MY next Argument shall be taken from the Practice of the Saints and People of God in all Ages of the World . 'T is strange any should doubt of the truth of Singing the Praises of God , if it be made appear it was the Practice of the People of God before the Law , and also under the Dispensation of the Gospel .

1. Not wholly to pass over what I have b●fore hinted of the Angels Singing , though I shall but touch upon it here , and do little more than cite a Passage out of a Sermon preach'd by Reverend Mr. Wells , in the Supplement to the Morning Exercise , these 〈◊〉 his words ; Singing is the Musick of Ang●●● Job tells us , the Morning Stars sang together , Job 38. 7. Now these Morning Stars ( saith he ) as Pineda tells us , are the Angels to which the Chaldee Paraphrase accords , naming these Morning Stars Aciem Angelorum , a● Host of Angels : nay , when this heavenly Host was sent to proclaim the Birth of o●● dearest Jesus , they deliver their Message in this raised way of Duty , Luk. 2. 13. they were 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 delivering their Message in a laudatory Singing , the whole company of Angels making a musical Quire ; nay , in Heaven , there is the Angels joyous Musick , they sing Hallelujahs to the most High , and to the Lamb who sits upon the Throne , Rev. 5. 11.

As I said before , Singing , as it appears by this Singing of the Angels , is as ancient as the World it self , and well-pleasing unto God , he would never imply his Angels else in it , as I shewed in the second Chapter . But to our Business ,

First , That it was practised before the giving forth of the Law , is evident from that ●assage before mentioned , Exod. 15. 1 , 2 , &c. ●hen sang Moses , and the Children of Israel , 〈◊〉 S●ng unto the Lord , and spake , saying , I ●ill sing unto the Lord , for he hath triumphed ●●oriously , &c. [ and spake . ] Note , in Singing , here is a speaking ; and though they spake , ●et the Holy Ghost saith , they sang what they 〈◊〉 spake ; and though it were the whole Con●regation that sang , yet it was as if it were ●ut one Man , so united were they in their ●oice , ( which will further appear in its proper place . ) Also 't is worthy observing , this very ●ong the Gospel-Saints shall sing at the destru●tion of Babylon , Rev. 15. 3. Nay , some con●lude , they have already sung it ; though I am ●ot of that Opinion , not believing any of the 〈◊〉 Via●● are by the seven Angels yet poured ●ut , but that this Song shall be sung at that ●ime when the Saints have gotten temporal Victory over the Beast and Mystical Babylon , is evident . But let none mistake , though the Saints can't yet sing that Song , yet they may , and ought to sing the Song of the Lamb , which is to praise God for spiritual Victory obtain'd by Jesus Christ over Sin , Satan , the World , &c. This is the chief Song we should sing , and this we have perpetual cause or ●easong to sing . But to returm , it appears the Saints did celebrate the Praise of God by singing before the Law was given forth on Mount Sinai .

And then , Secondly , under the Law are a multitude of Instances of their Melodious Singing to God : Moses , ( as Mr. Wells observes , ) penn'd the ninetieth Psalm ; and no doubt 〈◊〉 he , and the Children of Israel , sang it . D●vid , and all the Lord's People , sang in 〈◊〉 Worship of God in his time : Also Hezek●● sung , and Asaph sung , 2 Chron. 37. 30. 〈◊〉 Prophets sang ; the Jews sang before and 〈◊〉 the Captivity , Nehemiah and the People 〈◊〉 him sung and praised God .

Thirdly , The Lord's People , in Gospel days , were found in this Ordinance 〈◊〉 Practice of Singing the Praises of the Lo●● To pass by the Song of Zacharias and Elizabeth , and Simeon : How sweetly did 〈◊〉 sing ? 't is called by the Annotators , the famo●● Song of the blessed Virgin , Luk. 1. 46. Al●●● our Lord Jesus , with his Disciples , after 〈◊〉 celebration of the Holy Supper ( the holy Gh●● saith ) sung an Hymn ; they praised God , 〈◊〉 they praised him by Singing . Moreover , 〈◊〉 and Silas sung Praises , tho in Prison , and 〈◊〉 Fe● were fast in the Stocks , Act. 16. Sh●● any Men now dare to say , There are no P●●cedents for Singing Psalms and Hymns , &c. 〈◊〉 the New Testament ? certainly they will forb●● to assert any such thing . And now from 〈◊〉 whole take this Argument .

Arg. 4. That which was the Practice of 〈◊〉 Lord's People before the Law , and under 〈◊〉 Law , and also in the Gospel-Dispensation , is 〈◊〉 indispensible Duty of the Saints and People 〈◊〉 God , to practise in all Ages . But Singing 〈◊〉 Praises of the Lord , was the Duty of the Lord 〈◊〉 People before the Law , and under the L●●nd also in the Gospel-time and Dispensation . Ergo. 'T is the indispensible Duty of the Saints to ●●actise singing the Praises of God in all Ages .

If any should go about to answer this Argument , they must shew what Duty or Ordinance was ever practis'd before the Law , under the Law , and in the Gospel-Dispensation , that notwithstanding is not obliging or binding to ●s , or else they will say nothing to the pur●ose ; but the Argument will stand as firm as Rock .

CHAP. V. Proving Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , an Holy Ordinance of Jesus Christ , from Scripture-Precepts .

WE shall now prove and demonstrate , that Singing of the Praises of God , not only in Private , but also in Congregations , is a Duty incumbent on us in Gospel-Times , as well as it was of Old . As there is the same God of Mercies , so the same Praises are to be rendered to him for his Blessings , no doubt , and in the same manner now , ( that is , by Singing ) as was then , will appear ;

1. Because the Lord ( who alone appoints his own Worship ) hath commanded and 〈◊〉 it at our Hands ; and his Command and P●●cept is the Rule of our Obedience : Rejoice 〈◊〉 Righteous ; Praise is comely for the Vprig●● Praise the Lord , sing unto him . Psal. 84 1 , 〈◊〉 3 , 4 , 5. Sing aloud unto the God of our Stren●● make a joyful Noise unto the God of 〈◊〉 Make a joyful Noise unto the Lord ; come ●●●fore his presence with Singing , Psal. 100. 1 , 〈◊〉 Psal. 95. 1 , 2. O come let us sing unto the 〈◊〉 let us make a joyful Noise to the Rock of 〈◊〉 Salvation . And many such Precepts are gi●● forth by the Holy Ghost , as 't is well kno● to all . 1 Chron. 16. 9. Sing unto him ; 〈◊〉 Psalms unto him , and tell of all his wond●● Works . So Psal. 68. 32. Sing unto the Lord 〈◊〉 the Earth ; O sing Praises unto the Lord .

2. Consider these Commands , by which 〈◊〉 Lord established this part of his Worship of 〈◊〉 are as obligatory unto us in Gospel-Times , 〈◊〉 they were then to them when first instituted , ●●cept it could be proved to be either Ceremo●● or Judaical , or hath received a change in 〈◊〉 Gospel . And this is evident in many resp●●● particularly as to Prayer , that was a Duty 〈◊〉 and the Precepts contained in the Psalms 〈◊〉 the Prophets , which enjoin it , are of the 〈◊〉 Authority with those in the New Testament and equally bind the Conscience . So also 〈◊〉 Fasting , a Duty ( as one observes ) required 〈◊〉 the Prophets ; and not so clearly repeated 〈◊〉 any Institution under the Gospel , as this 〈◊〉 Singing is ; and the same might be said for Days of Thanksgiving . Nay , and 't is obser●able , how oft our Brethren , upon all proper ●nd fit Occasions , fly to those Precepts to press Prayer , Fasting , and Thanksgiving too . If therefore Singing , as it is laid down and en●oined in these Sacred Precepts in the Book of Psalms , &c. is not binding , notwithstanding ●tis repeated and given forth in the New Testament afresh ; Why do you , when you exhort ●o other Duties , make use of Arguments and Proofs out of the Book of Psalms and the Pro●●ets , in other Cases , since the Commands thereof , though neither Ceremonial nor Judai●al , are ( as you seem to affirm ) of any Force , ●or obligatory to us ? This seems strange , for ●ertainly Men have more reason in them , than ●o press Obedience on Subjects to their Su●eriors , by abrogated or antiquated Sta●utes ; And shall the Lord's Ambassadors be more irrational in pressing Obedience to the Lord , than meer rational Men are in Civil Affairs ?

Now , saith one , Since there is no Man that questions whether Singing of Psalms was instituted and commanded of God of old ; how can they avoid the Power of such Precepts , considering , as he minds , particularly Psal. 81. ver. 4 , 5. where Singing is called a Statute for Israel , and the Law of the God of Jacob , and ordained in Joseph for a Testament ; which , saith he , refers to a Time , before they were brought into the Ceremonial Worship ? Hence , saith he , it inevitably follows , that until any Man ca● shew us , that Singing of Psalms , yea , Singing of the Book of Psalms , was Ceremonial or Judaical , or are changed or abrogated 〈◊〉 the Gospel ; those Precepts lie upon us now with the same Power and Obligation as 〈◊〉 laid them under then ; for the Antiquity of a Law , or Institution , rather commends it to us , than any ways abates of its Obligation so that had there been no other Institution● for Singing of Psalms , &c. than what is 〈◊〉 the Book of Psalms , we should have had sufficient Authority to be found in them . ( A Manuscript called Psalmody . ) He might have added , Since especially it is of 〈◊〉 like Nature with Prayer , viz. a moral Precept● as well as brought into a written Law . But 〈◊〉 all I might add , 't is much more unreasonable to plead an exemption from the Force and Obligation of those Precepts , since the Saints are injoined to sing those Psalms of David by the Holy Ghost in the New Testament ; for 〈◊〉 grant there are no other Psalms , none called Psalms besides the Book of Psalms .

3. To this , take what Mr. Wells affirms ; 〈◊〉 shall ( saith he ) take one Shaft out of the whole Quiver , i. e. I shall use one Argument , among many , which is this , viz. W● always find this Duty of Singing Psalm● linked to , and joined with other moral Duties ; thus the Psalmist joins Singing and Prayer together , Psal. 95. 1 , 6. O come let us sing unto the Lord — O come , let us worship , and fall down , and kneel before the Lord our Maker .

There is Prayer and Singing con●exed , Singing being of equal necessity and authority with other Ordinances 〈◊〉 so the Apostle James joins these two together , Is any 〈◊〉 you afflicted ? let him pray . Is any 〈◊〉 ? let him sing Psalms , Jam. 5. 13. You 〈◊〉 observe , both these Services are equally calculated for Man's Necessity . Thus Paul and Silas join them in their practice , Acts 16. 26. And so Justic● Martyr , in his 117●● Question , ad Orthod●●● , tells us , That they sang , and sent up Prayers to God ; the Primitive Church confirming David's Injunctions , and the Apostolical Commands . So that by these Instances we may observe , that the Duty of Prayer and Singing have walked in the same Equipage , and lay claim to an equal Authority from Divine Writ , the Scripture jointly favouring both , p. 177.

Secondly , This Duty and holy Ordinance of Singing in Gospel-Days is evident from these Prophetick Psalms . I may speak , saith Mr. W●lls , of Singing , as Paul speaks of Timothy's Ordination , 1 Tim. 4. 14. it was given by Prophesy . There are divers Prophecies in the Old Testament concerning Saints singing in Gospel-times , on Psal. 108. 2. saith he , M●●r● observe● , that there David pours forth his ardent Prayers and Wishes for the Kingdom of Christ . And so Divines observe , that the 100 Psalm is Prophetical ; Make a joyful Noise unto the Lord , all ye Lands . Serve the Lord with gladness : Come before his Presence with Singing . O sing unto the Lord a new Song : Sing unto the Lord all the Earth . Here we , and all 〈◊〉 Gentiles be sure who believe in Christ , are required to sing , nay , and to come into his Presence , that is , into his Public● Worship , with Singing . The like 〈◊〉 1 Chron. 16. 23 , 24. Sing unto the Lord all the Earth : shew forth from day to day his Sal●ation . Declare his Glory among the Heat●● ; his marvellous Works among all Nations . So Psal. 66. 1 , 2. Make a joyful Noise unto 〈◊〉 God , all ye Lands . Sing forth the Hono●● 〈◊〉 his Name : make his Praise glorious . Psal 21. 13. Be thou exalted , O Lord , in thine 〈◊〉 strength : so will we sing , and praise thy Power . These , and many other Psalms , are , 't is evident , Prophecies of Gospel-Times , when the old Boundaries of the Church should be broken down , to give an entrance unto the Gentiles into the Church of God ; and to shew us , that is the Jews in their Church-State were to celebrate the Praises of God by Psalms , so are we : and as Israel sang the Praises of God in the Widerness , and at the Red Sea , and therein acknowledged the Benefits they received ; so 〈◊〉 we , with Songs of Thanksgiving , shew forth from day to day his Salvation , and declare his Glory among the Heathen , with a joyful and triumphant Noise ; otherwise we fall short of answering the Prophesy in our Day and Times , and render not to God the Duty he requires . And to all the prophetical Psalms , I might add that pregnant Prophecy recorded by the Prophet Isa , Chap. 52. 8. Thy Watchmen shall lift up the Voice , with the Voice together shall they sing .

Which clearly ( saith Mr. Wells ) prognosticates this . Musical Ordinance in Gospel-Times . Musculus faith , These Watch●en shall jubilee , when they shall consider the great Joy approaching for the Redemption obtained by Christ . There are two things , which not only establish , but sweeten and honour an Ordinance . 1. Promises . 2. Prophecies . Christ himself was the Fruit and Issue of both .

These things clearly inform us :

1. That Singing of Psalms , &c. is not a legal part of Worship , but fuitable to Gospel-Times .

2. That there is clear and manifest Institution of it ; * * Manuscript Psalmody . nay , and that these prophetical Gospel-Psalms and Prophecies , are part of the Gospel , ( being Prophecies of it , as the first Chapter of John is ) . What think you of those places of the Prophets and Psalms , that speak of Christ as they are mentioned and recited in the New Testament ? are they not Gospel as well as any thing ye find therein taught or laid down anew ? Doth not the Apostle tell us , That unto them ( that is , to Israel ) the Gospel was preached , as well as unto us ? And that in Promises and Prophecies it was preached to Abraham ?

3. Consider that there is no attainment under the Gospel , of special spiritual Priviledges , that can exalt Christians beyond th● practice of this Duty ; the more our Mercies are , the greater are our Obligations 〈◊〉 praise God by Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs ; and so express the Joy of our Hearts , by Singing forth the Praises of God : they that attain to the greatest purity of Gospel-Worship and Institutions , are to do as Moses and Israel did at the Red Sea . Rev. 13. 3.

4. And they sang the Song of Moses the Servant of God , and the Song of the Lamb , saying , Great and marvellous are thy Works , 〈◊〉 God Almighty ; just and true are thy Way , thou King of Saints . Who shall not fear that , and glorify thy Name , O Lord ? for thou 〈◊〉 art Holy ; for all nations shall come 〈◊〉 worship thee , for thy Judgments are 〈◊〉 manifest . Manuscr . Psalmody .

These were such that have attained to the Purity of Gospel-Institutions , being purged 〈◊〉 by Fire from Antichristian Pollution , being become as pure and transparent Glass , having 〈◊〉 a perfect Conquest and Victory over Antichrist , who are said thus melodiously to sing forth the Praises of God ; and to close this , we 〈◊〉 sing in Heaven in the highest Glory : and therefore it follows , the highest state of Grace 〈◊〉 upon us ; be sure to be found in this so holy 〈◊〉 sublime Duty , which as we have shewed , in the Work of Angels .

Obj. But by the same Argument you bring to prove we ought to sing Psalms , &c. in Gospel-times , from the Precepts given by David ; Why may we not , as David did , use an Instrument of ten Strings ?

Answ. 1. Singing with Instruments , we say with Reverend Mr. Cotton , was typical , and so a Ceremonial Point of Worship , and therefore ceased ; but Singing , saith he , with Heart and Voice , is a Moral Worship , such as is written in the Hearts of all Men by Nature . As to pray in distress , pag. 6. let it be observed , that I am not alone in my Apprehensions , as touching Singing being a Moral Duty . Here you see that this worthy Man positively affirms the same : And again , he saith , That singing of Psalms , &c. is not a Ceremony , but a Moral Duty , and so continueth in the New Testament , [ Cotton's singing of Psalms , pag. 23 , 24. ] But , faith he , suppose singing with Instruments were not typical , but only an external Solemnity of Worship fitted to the Solace of the outward Senses of Children under Age , ( such as the Israelites were under the Old Testament , Gal. 4. 1 , 2 , 3. ) yet now in the grown Age of the Heirs of the New Testament , such external pompous Solemnities are ceased , and no external Worship reserved , but such as holdeth forth Simplicity and Gravity , &c. I might add , and by the same Argument we may not sing , because they used Instruments , &c. We must not pray , or their praying is no Rule to us , because they offered them up to God with Incense , and divers such like Absurdities in other respects would follow ; therefore there is now no other Instrument to be used in singing but that of the Tongue , well tuned with Grace , from a holy and spiritual Heart . But more of this hereafter . 'T is enough to remove this Objection , Singing is given forth a-fresh in the New Testament , and no Instrument of Musick mentioned . Which brings me to the sixth and main Argument , to prove , Singing of Psalms , Hymns and Spiritual Songs , a Gospel-Ordinance .

CHAP. VI. Wherein it is proved , that singing of Psalms and Hymns , &c. is a Gospel-Ordinance , because instituted and required of the Churches by the Holy Ghost .

WE shall now shew you it is one of Christ's Institutions , or that which the Holy Ghost doth positively require , or injoyn the Churches of God in the New Testament to be found in the Practice of . To make this fully to appear , I shall direct you to Ephes. 5. 19. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Psalmis & Hymnis , in Psalms and Hymns , and 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , & Canticis spiritalibus , and in spiritual Songs , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , cantantes & psallentes , singing and psalming in your Hearts to the Lord . Col. 3. 16. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all Wisdom ; teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms , and Hymns and spiritual Songs , singing with Grace in your Hearts . The holy Apostle in this Epistle to the Coloss●ans , strenuously laboured to take off this Church from all Jewish Rites , Shadowy-Ordinances and Ceremonies , and yet injoyns the Duty of singing of Psalms and Hymns and spiritual Songs upon them by the Authority of the Holy Ghost , as that which is the absolute Duty of the Saints and Churches of Jesus Christ in Gospel-days . What a foolish thing is it for any to object against this Ordinance , because in the performance of it under the Law it was with Musical Instruments , since 't is to these Churches so plainly given forth as a Gospel-Duty , and in them to all the Churches of the Saints to the end of the World ? For by the same Argument one may deny singing of Psalms , &c. to be a Duty , notwithstanding so fully commanded or enjoyned by the holy Spirit , another may object against any other Precept , and so till they leave us not one Gospel-Ordinance . I must confess , whatsoever was given forth under the Law , or injoyned as an Ordinance ( unless a Moral Precept ) that is not given forth anew under the New Testament ( there being neither Precept nor Precedent for it ) I never believed it doth in the least concern us . Hence we object against the Jewish Sabbath ( for tho a time of Worship is Moral ) yet the Seventh Day , which was co●manded to the People of the Jews , and prosely●● Stranger that was within their Gates , yet it ●●ing not given forth in the Gosp●l by 〈◊〉 nor his Apostles , nor ever observed ( as we 〈◊〉 find ) by any Gospel-Church , it concerns us 〈◊〉 in the least , especially considering that 〈◊〉 Gospel Churches observed another Day in 〈◊〉 Worship , and not that , viz. the first Day of 〈◊〉 Week .

But as touching this of Singing , there 〈◊〉 remain certainly no doubt about its being 〈◊〉 Duty , since , as I have already proved , it 〈◊〉 observed before the Law , and under the 〈◊〉 and in the Gospel , and given forth here 〈◊〉 these Churches as an absolute Institution : 〈◊〉 if these words don't contain a Precept , we 〈◊〉 be at a great loss to find a Precept for 〈◊〉 other Duties in the New Testament , which are no otherwise expressed .

As for Example , Only let your Conversa●●●● be as it becomes the Gospel , Phil. 1. 27.

Is any afflicted ? let him pray , James 5. 1● .

Let no corrupt Communication proceed 〈◊〉 of your Mouth , &c. Ephes. 4. 29.

Let every one of you so love his Wife , & ● . Ephes. 5. 33.

All these Precepts are injoyned in the very same form of Speech , Let the Word of 〈◊〉 dwell in you richly in all Wisdom ; teaching 〈◊〉 another in Psalms , and Hymns , and Spirit●●● Songs , singing with Grace in your Hearts to 〈◊〉 Lord .

Is any merry ? let him sing Psalms , James 5. 13. 'T is not left to our liberty , whether we will sing or not , or that we may , or may not do it ; 't is as absolutely injoyned as Prayer , or any Gospel-Duty , and that not only on single Persons at special occasions , but on the Churches also ; they are here required to sing Psalms and Hymns , and Spirituals Songs likewise .

A Man may as well say , any one of them who were Members of the Churches , were not concerned in other Precepts , as to say , this doth ●ot concern them all generally as well as some in particular . May not you as well say , and stand by it too , All are not to be filled with the Spirit , or to desire the further influence and assistance of it ; or , all are not required to pray , nor to put on the whole Armour of God ; or , all are not to let their Conversation be as becomes the Gospel ? nay , what not ?

Now since one Command , or two at most , for breaking of Bread is judged a sufficient ground for all Christians Obedience , and we finding no mention made of the practice of it in divers Gospel-Churches ; Why is not this Command , thrice repeated in the New Testament , as binding on our Consciences as the other ? especially considering how it corresponds with the Practice of Christ and his Apostles , as shall , God willing , be further evinced . For we have , in a word , both Precepts for it , and Examples too . Tho if we had no Precedents for Singing in the New Testament , yet these Precepts are sufficient ; and where we have the one , we need not the other .

Besides , where there is the like Ground or Reason of a Law , one would think that might tend somewhat to satisfaction : Have not we like cause to praise God , and to sing forth his Praise , as they had ? And doth not God deserve the like Glory and Honour from us , as from them ? And do not our Souls need those sweet Soul-refreshing Comforts and Consolations which many ▪ meet with in that Ordinance , as much as they did ? And is not every Word of God alike pure and righteous , and equally to be esteemed ?

Nor will that Objection some raise against it , signify any thing , viz. Why , we cannot come at it ; we do not know how we should sing .

Ans. How ! has Christ not been faithful then ( who is the Son over his own House ) in declaring the manner how we should sing ? hath he not left us a Pattern , or an Example himself ? Is it not said , they sang an Hymn , viz. he himself with his Disciples ? And since there is no other Rule , Mode , or Manner of Singing differing from that practised by Moses and Israel before the Law , ( and others after them ) and these in the New Testament , what can be clearer ? the manner is plainly described . But will your utter neglect of it upon this pretended Ignorance excuse you before the Lord ? ought you not to do it as well as you can ? But I am afraid rather some have taken up a Prejudice against it , and do not desire to be informed about it . But I shall from what I have said upon this last Proof , draw one Argument , and proceed to the next thing .

Arg. 1. That which Christ practised in Gospel-Worship , and his Holy Apostles by the Authority of the Holy Ghost did injoyn on the Gospel-Churches as their Duty to do , is the undoubted Duty of the Saints and Churches of Christ to do and perform to the end of the World . But Christ did practise the Singing of a Hymn with his Disciples in Gospel-Worship , and his Apostles did injoyn , or require the Gospel-Churches to sing Psalms and Hymns , and Spiritual Songs as their Duty , by the authority of the Holy Ghost . Ergo , 'T is the undoubted Duty of the Saints and Churches of Christ , to practise Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs to the end of the World .

The Minor , as to the practice of Christ and his Disciples , I have already proved ; the Scripture is plain , read Mat. 26. 30. And when they had Sung an Hymn , they went out into the Mount of Olives . The same is recorded by St. Mark , Chap. 14. 26. And his Apostles did injoin it on the Churches , Ephs. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16.

As touching the Major , if that be not granted , farewel to all Gospel-Institutions .

For if neither Christ as our Pattern , nor the Apostolical Institutions and Injunctions contained in the New Testament as our Rule , gives no sufficient Authority as to do what was so practised and injoined , what Ordinance can bind us ?

CHAP. VII . Proving Singing of Psalms , &c. An Ordinance , because it was confirmed by Miracles , as other Ordinances were .

MY next Argument to prove it is a Gospel-Ordinance to Sing Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , is taken from that visible witness that God did bear to it , in the New-Testament , it seems to me , ( and others whose Eyes God hath opened ) that it was confirmed by a Miracle , as all other Gospel-Ordinances more or less were , Heb. 2. 3 , 4. As the whole of Christ's Doctrine , or the Christian Religion , was confirmed by Signs and Wonders , and divers Miracles and Gifts of the Holy Spirit according to God's own Will and good Pleasure ; so were most , if not all , Gospel-Ordinances particularly .

1. Meeting together on the first Day of the Week was miraculously owned , and confirmed by that wonderful effusion of the Holy Ghost , Acts 2. 1 , 2 , 3.

2. Preaching the Word was after the same manner confirmed . Whilst Peter yet speak these words , the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the Word , Acts 10. 44. For they heard them speak with Tongues , and magnify God , vers. 46.

3. Baptism was as wonderfully confirmed at the Baptism of our Saviour , for when he came out of the Water , the Heavens were opened , and to , a Voice from Heaven , saying , This is my beloved Son , in whom I am well pleased , Mat. 3. 16 , 17. And the Spirit descended like a D●ve , and lighted on him .

4. Laying on of Hands was after the like manner owned and confirmed : And when Paul had laid his hands on them , the Holy Ghost came on them , and they spake with Tongues , and magnified God , Act. 19. 6.

5. Also when the Apostles had prayed , 't is said , the place was shaken where they were assembled ; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost , Act. 4. 31.

6. In the last place , we find . Singing also was in the same sort confirmed : And at Midnight Paul and Silas prayed , and Sang Praises 〈◊〉 God ; 〈◊〉 the Prisoners heard them . And suddenly there was a great Earth-quake , so that the Foundations of the Prison were shaken , 〈◊〉 immediately all the Doors were opened , and every Man's Bands were 〈◊〉 , Act. 16. 25 , 26. Mr. Wells taking notice of this place , saith , God honoured the Ordinance of Singing , &c. with Miracles : Behold here , faith he , an eminent Miracle , Prisons saluting their Prisoners Liberty . Paul and S●l●● Singing , set God on working . And if their Tongues were loosed in Duty , their Hands shall be loosed for Liberty ; Singing and Praying can work ●●●ders . Certainly had not this Duty , as well as others , been to continue in the Church as most acceptable to God , he would never have witnessed to it after this manner : but since he hath , let such tremble that slight and contemn it . As these Miracles confirmed the Gospel in general , so all must needs confess each Ordinance thus owned and born witness to , was miraculously confirmed , and as others , so this .

Joyntly with this Argument , it is necessary also in the next place to consider , how Singing of Psalms was brought into the Church in the Gospel-times , as other Ordinances were , even as a Doctrine , Prophesying , Interpreting , &c. 1 Cor. 14. 26. Nay , and it seems it was in their Publick Assemblies , when Unbelievers were admitted to come in among them , as appears by vers. 33.

Object . But this was an extraordinary Singing , or a Singing by an extraordinary Gift , and there are none have such Gifts now ; and therefore none must sing in these days , since the miraculous Gifts are ceased .

Answ. That the Psalm was extraordinary as to the Matter , is doubtful ; because we know no Psalms but the Book of Psalms , or those called the Psalms of David : so that it is very likely it might be one of them ; but let it be a Psalm , or an Hymn , given forth by the extraordinary Gifts of the Spirit , and sung too by the same extraordinary Spirit , yet this doth not weaken , but strengthen my Argument .

1. Because , as I said even now , all Gospel-Ordinances were witnessed to by the miraculous Gifts of the Holy Ghost , in the Apostles days ; and so likewise they had extraordinary Gifts to discharge those Duties respectively .

1. They had an extraordinary Gift of Prayer , extraordinary Gifts to Preach and handle a Doctrine ; the like in Interpreting and Prophesying , so no doubt likewise for Singing . But if after these extraordinary Gifts ceased in the Church , the Saints were to sing no more , but leave off that Ordinance , notwithstanding the Churches are enjoined to sing by the Holy Ghost :

Pray consider the direful Consequences of such an absurd Conclusion , i. e. the Apostles had an extraordinary Spirit , nay , an infallible Spirit , in Preaching , in Praying , in Prophesying , in Interpreting the Scripture ; and in the whole of their Work , in the Administration of the Gospel , in respect of every Duty and Ordinance thereof ; these are all ceased , since none have these miraculous Gifts now . From hence it will follow , There 's none now can , or ought to Preach , Pray , Interpret , &c. or dispense any one Ordinance of the Gospel , &c. Nay , and 't is not unknown to many , there are some have lately made use of this Argument against all Ordinances : And this I will say , and by the help of God stand by it too , That if Singing must be rejected or thrown away , by virtue of this Argument , viz. Because none have an extraordinary Gift to bring 〈◊〉 forth , all Ordinances are gone , or must be cast off . God deliver poor Christians from the pernicious Arguings of such weak Opposers of Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs . Besides , 't is evident , none of those Duties and Gospel-Administrations , were tied up to such who 〈◊〉 those extraordinary Gifts , but that others who had but the ordinary Gifts , might and ought to attend upon the Administration of the same Duties and Ordinances , as well as those so miraculously endowed : for the main Business the Apostle strives to do there , was not to order the Matter of the Worship of the Gospel , but to regulate the Manner how those extraordinary Gifts in the Church should be used to prevent Confusion ; and that all might be done to edification of the People , whilst God saw good to continue them in his Church . Doubtless there cannot be a stronger Argument brought to prove and confirm this Ordinance . The Holy Ghost inspired the Saints with Miracles , Gifts of the Spirit , to bring forth a Psalm , as well as to bring forth a Doctrine ; and so witnessed to it , and established it as a standing Ordinance in the Church , as being of the same Nature and Authority with Prayer and Preaching , or any other Gospel-Institution . I will close this with one Argument .

Arg. That Duty or Ordinance which was owned and witnessed to by the Lord in the New Testament , with Miracles , and the extraordinary Gifts of the Spirit , is to abide in the Church as a standing Ordinance . But Singing of Psalms , &c. was thus confirmed , owned , and witnessed unto . Ergo , Singing of Psalms , &c. remains in the Church as a standing Ordinance .

CHAP. VIII . Proving Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , a Gospel-Ordinance , to continue in the Church , from the practice of the Churches in the succeeding Ages next the Apostles Times , particularly in the second and third Centuries ; with the practice of all the Godly generally in all Ages , nay , the most strict in Grace and Godliness till this present Age.

AS Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , was instituted and given forth by the Holy Ghost in the Gospel , and practised by Christ and his Saints in the Primitive Times : so we shall shew you , from the best and most approved Ecclesiastical Histories , it was practised in the Ages next unto the Apostles Days .

Here I shall give you what Mr. Roberts in his Key to the Holy Bible , hath said upon this account , pag. 173.

And as Singing of Psalms , &c. ( saith he ) was used in the purest Primitive Apostolical Times in the Church-Assemblies : so it was continued all along in the successive Churches hitherto , though it is too evident that some Corruptions and Vanities , by little and little , crept into this , as into other parts of God's Worship .

Singing of Psalms , &c. was used in the second Century , to celebrate Christ and his Deity , against the Calumny of Theodosi●● Euseb. Eccl. Hist. Lib. 5. cap. 28.

Eusebius tell us , that Pliny the Second , abo●● Anno 98 , wrote an Epistle to Trajan the Emperor , that the Christians being gathered together before day , were wont to sing Hymns together , and praise Christ as God . And the same Eusebius affirmeth , that Philo-Judaeus did testify the same of this Christian Practice ; and also assures us , that the said Pliny and Traja lived in the Time of the Apostle John , who did not die till about 100 Years after Christ .

This very Passage out of Eusebius , This Epistle of Pliny is extant in Euseb. Hist. Eccles. lib. 2. c. 17. I find cited by Mr. ●●berts , Mr. Wells , Mr. Cott●● , and also by Mr. Sidenham 〈◊〉 others . But having the History . I need not mention them ; yet for one Reason I shall add the same over again out of Mr. Sydenham's Treat . of Singing , p. 209.

Eusebius ( saith he ) in his Eccles. Hist. lib. 3. cap. 35. quotes two Epistles of Plinius Secundus to Trajan the Emperor , testifying that the Christians were wont to assemble themselves , before day , to sing Psalms and Hymns together . The same doth Philo-Judaeus testify , who lived in the Apostles Time , as the same Esebius saith , Lib. 2. cap. 22. Now in the Time of Plinius and Trajan did the beloved Disciple live , saith Zanch on Ephes. 5. 18 , 19.

Tertullian , who flourished near the Apostles Time , about 194 , saith , the Christians were wont to sing out of the Holy Scripture , Apol. cap. 1. 9. as their usual custom .

Athanasius maintains it was practised in his Days , Episcop. eo locis .

Cyprian pressed this Duty in his Epistle to Donatus .

Chrysostom in his Commentary on Psal. 41. admonishes all Persons , Countrymen , Mariners , Weavers , &c. to sing Psalms and Spiritual Songs .

Estius cries out , saith Mr. Wells , to take notice of the Custom of the Primitive Christians , who did not only sing Psalms and Hymns in their publick Assemblies , but in their private Families .

I might quote Ambrose , who zealously pressed this Duty on the Western Churches , of singing Psalms and Hymns , Lib. 9. Confessionum .

Mr. Cotton saith , that one Samosaten●● the Heretick , who denied the Deity of the Lord Jesus , was one of the first that within these first 300 Years , opposed the Singing he speaks of .

No marvel if the Saints sung to Christ , as unto God , that such a Man opposed the practice of Singing such Hymns .

Basil the Great , a most Famous , Pious , and Learned Man , mightily commends the Singing of Psalms , as I find him quoted by several worthy Writers , I need not go lower .

Obj. But they Sung with Orrgans , or musical Instruments ; the Ordinance was corrupted , and we cannot come at it now , &c.

Answ. 1. We find no mention in the least of any other Singing , but that of united Voices , in Eusebius , nor Tertullian , &c.

2. But , pray , what Ordinance hath not been corrupted and the purity of it ( as practised in the Primitive Time ) lost ? Now by the same Argument , viz. because adulterated and intermixt with foolish Ceremonies , we must not Sing : So we must not practise Baptism , nor the Lord's Supper , nor any other ●●stitution of the Gospel , for none have been more abused and corrupted than they have ; and indeed it is rather an Argument for Singing , than against it ; for here in Satan shewed his Malice and Hatred of it , by seeking thus 〈◊〉 add Poison to it .

But ought not we to labour to restore it 〈◊〉 its primitive Practice ( as in other Ordinances through Grace , we have been helped to do ? ) Shall we not have the pure Food of God● Word , because Antichrist hath put Poison 〈◊〉 theirs ?

There is one thing I omitted which is worthy to be noted in Eusebius ; It seems the Christians would not part with this sweet Ordinance of the Gospel , though it cost them the loss of their Lives , for though they were discovered by their Singing in their Assemblies , yet they would not leave it off .

To pass by the Wald●nses practice in Singing , &c. and all other Godly Christians since the beginning of the Reformation ; How zealous were the Godly Puritans ( as they were called ) for this blessed Ordinance , in whom Godliness shone so gloriously , that few since may compare with them ?

Also our Brethren of the Independent and Presbyterian Perswasion are as well established in this sweet Ordinance , as in Prayer and Preaching . What though they mistake in Baptism , doth it therefore follow they must needs mistake here too ? Why may they not be wrong , and off the Rule in their Preaching and Praying and all else they do ?

I must confess , I value not the Practice of all Mankind in any thing in God's Worship , if the Word of God doth not bear witness to it , but sence 't is positively injoined in the New-Testament , and also an Example left of our Saviour , and his Disciples practice , I thought it could not be amiss to take notice of the unanimous Agreement , and joynt Consent and Practice of the Churches and Godly Christians in the succeding Ages next after the Apostles , and to this very Day ; but all this is needless , since ●tis to me all one as to go about to prove the Saints in every Age of the World did pray and praise God , this of Singing being an Ordinance of the same nature .

CHAP. IX . Shewing the true Form or Manner of Singing in the Gospel-days ; and that it ought to be with united Voices , or to sing together harmoniously .

I Having in the first Chapter proved there is no proper Singing but what is with the Voice , part of my Work here is done already ; till I come to the Objections ? I need not handle that Point any farther . But the Question is , Whether one Person only , or the whole Church , should sing together with united Voices ?

'T is the latter that I do assert , and shall , by God's assistance , endeavour to make appear ; and I shall begin with our Pattern , I mean that Example our Lord Jesus and his Disciples have lest us ; Is it not said they sung ? that is , Christ himself with his Disciples sung a Hymn● together , in the end of the Administration of the Holy Supper , Matth. 26. 30.

The second place I may direct you to , is Acts 16. 25. And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed , and sang Praises unto God , and the Prisoners heard them .

Obj. The place in Mathew 26. 30. may as well be translated , they praised God .

Answ. Though it is true they praised God , and it will bear that sense , yet , as Mr. Cotton and all learned Men I can meet with say , the Greek word signifies , their Praising of God in a Hymn . That is to say , they praised God by Singing . [ See Dr. Du-Veil on Act. 16. 25. ] Where is the Man that saith the Word will bear a praising of God without Singing ? if there should be such a Person , I perceive ( by my converse with several Learned Men ) that I shall bring twenty , may be an hundred to that one that will refute and contradict him in what he says .

But let this be considered , viz. Though all spiritual Singing is a Praising of God , yet all Praisings of God , are not Singing his Praise .

I have already proved that Singing in the Spirit in a melodious manner , is the highest manner to express the Praises of God that the Scripture bears witness of ; so that 't is no marvel that some tell you it signifies Praising of God . But it is a poor sorry Cause that puts Men upon a temptation to quarrel with the Translators of the Bible , who from the word they hymned , positively affirm , they sang a Hymn . This is enough to stumble many weak Christians , who from such Dangerous and unnecessary exceptious may be ready to conclude , the Holy Bible is not truly translated in other places , and so may not know what to receive as a Truth , especially when they shall render a Greek word Singing , and another shall say it signifies no more than giving of Thanks . Yet Mr. Marlow seems to affirm no less , pag. 30. All know these are two different things , and tho he says truth , that says they praised God , when they sung an Hymn ● yet if they did no more than in the common manner say Grace , or give Thanks , he that says they Sung , tells an untruth ; in plain English , he lies ; and so every Man will say : Should I give Thanks after Supper , and one that is by should say I sung a Hymn , would not others who were with me wonder at his Impudence , and say he related a false Story , and testify I did no more than say Grace , or give Thanks ?

Nor doth it signify any thing , if some Greek Copy or old Traslation should render it , they gave Thanks , from the word [ they Hymned : ] For of what Authority is such a Translation , when compared to our late faithful and laborious Translators , who having many Greek Copies , and comparing them together , do affirm the Greek Word signifies , they sung 〈◊〉 Hymn ? and so saith Learned Dr. Du-Veil .

Object . But might they not be said to sing together , tho none sung but Christ only , and 〈◊〉 Disciples at the close say , Amen ; as in Prayer Men are said to pray , when there is but one that is the Mouth ?

Ans. This can't be , since there is so great a difference between the nature of Prayer , and that of Singing , which I have clearly opened in the first Chapter of this Treatise ; there is Mental Prayer , praying in the Heart , and Heart-rejoicing ; but there is no proper singing without the Voice , so that this would be justly to confound the Propriety of Speech . A whole Multitude that hear a Sermon , and say Amen to what they hear , may as well be said all of them to preach , as many may be said to sing , when there is but one only indeed that doth sing .

2. But further , to remove this Doubt ; I must say with Mr. Cotton , If the Disciples did not joyn in singing that Hymn , but only by silent Consent , then they might as well be said to have taken the Bread and blessed it , and broke it and distributed it , and so the Cup ; for all this Christ did with their silent Consent . But what our Saviour did alone , is expresly recorded as done by himself : He took the Bread and gave Thanks ; it doth not say , they gave Thanks ; and he took the Cup , &c. But observe , this of Singing or Hymning , is laid down in the plural Number , when they had siung an Hymn , they departed into the Mount of Olives : They that departed into the Mount , were they that sung the Hymn : Now it was not Christ alone , but his Disciples with him that departed into the Mount of Olives ; therefore , saith Mr. Cotton , it was Christ and his Disciples that sung the Hymn together .

CHAP. X. Proving Singing the Praises of God with united Voices , from the Practice of the Saints in the time of the Old Testament .

BUt to proceed in the next place , to prove the Ordinance of Singing ought to be performed with united Voices , pray consider the Practice of Moses , and the Children of Israel in singing after their Deliverance at the Red Sea , Exod. 15. 1. Then sang Moses and the Children of Israel this Song , &c. Moses did not sing alone , but the whole Congregation sung with him : Psal. 106. 12. They believed his Word , they sang his Praise ; but soon forgot his Works ; namely , the most of them that sung at the Red Sea ; not Moses , but the Children of Israel who sung with him , they that sung his Praise soon forgot his Works : Moses , say our late Annotators , composed the Song , and he , together with the Israelites , sung it to the Honour of God . Thus sung Deborah and Barak , and indeed we find no other Singing generally throughout the Old Testament . And therefore , since we are commanded to sing , and Christ hath given no other Direction about it but that of his own Practice , with his Disciples after the Holy Supper , and that of the Practice of Paul and Silas , who sung together , we may assure our selves there ●s no other manner of Singing to be brought into the Church but that with united Voices ; and he that should set up , or bring in any other way or manner , doubtless would be guilty of an Innovation . Should one alone sing in the midst of the Congregation , like a Ballad-Singer , what Word of God is there to justify any such Practice ? I doubt not but to make appear , when I come to it , that that Refuge in 1 Cor. 14. will fail them .

CHAP. XI . Proving that singing the Praises of God in Publick Worship with united Voices , from the Prophecies of the Scripture , that foretold how the Saints and Church of God should sing in Gospel-days .

OUR third Proof to demonstrate singing of Psalms , Hymns and Spiritual Songs in God's Publick Worship with united Voices , shall be taken from those Prophetical Psalms and Passages in the Old Testament , that clearly relate to the Practice of the Saints in Gospel-Times . Take Dr. Roberts words here in the first place . Singing of Psalms , &c. by Believers under the New Testament ( saith he ) , is often-times prophetically fore-told 〈◊〉 fore-required in the Old Testament ; and therefore Singing of Psalms is clearly an Ordinance of Christ under the New Testament . The Antecedent is evident in sundry instances of the Old Testament . ( Wherein pray take notice , that this Argument the Doctor brings , doth not only prove , that Singing is a Duty , but shews the manner of it also , how it should be used in our Congregations ) . He then proceeds to mention some of those Prophetical Scriptures .

O sing unto the Lord a new Song : sing ●●to the Lord all the Earth . Sing unto the Lord , bless his Name , &c. Psal. 96. 1 , 2. Again , Make a joyful Noise unto the Lord , O all the Earth . Serve the Lord with Gladness ; come before his Presence with Singing . Both which places , all the Earth , ( saith he ) must needs refer to the Gentiles as well as the Jews at that present Time ; to the Gentile● afterwards , when they should be called and converted to the Lord , then the Gentiles also should worship the Lord with Singing of Psalms , with a joyful Noise . Which cann't be any other than Singing together with a melodious Voice . But he goes on . So that these Passages ( saith he ) are tacit Prophecies of calling the Gentiles , and of their New-Testament-worshipping God by Singing forth his Praise . Add hereunto that notable passage ; O come let us sing unto the Lord : let us make a joyful Noise to the Rock of our Salvation . Let us come before his Presence with Thanksgiving ; and make a joyf●l Noise unto him with Psalms . Psal. 95. 3. This Psalm is undoubtedly a Prophecy of Christ , and of that Worship that shall and ought to be performed to him solemnly in Sacred Churches under the New Testament , and especially on the Lord's-Day-Sabbath . The Sabbatism , or rest of the New Testament , for the Apostle interprets this Psalm of Christ , compare Psal. 95. 7. to the end , with Heb. 3. 6 , 7. & 14. 15. as upon that Psalm I have noted . This Psalm judicious Calvin thinks , agrees to the Sabbath-day , wherein Sacred Assemblies worship God . And it is evident in the current Psalm , that herein the Holy Ghost prophetically exhorts to that solemn Worship of God under the New Testament , which was usual on Sabbath-Days , viz.

1. Praising the Lord , and Thanksgiving to him with Singing of Psalms , ( with a joyful Noise , or melodiously with united Voices ) Vers. 12. urging the same with sundry Arguments , Vers. 3 , 4 , 5.

2. Solemn publick Prayer , with the Reasons thereof , Vers. 6.

3. Willing , believing , and obedient attention to the Word of God then published , without hardening their Hearts against it through unbelief , To day if you will hear his Voice , harden not your Hearts , Vers. 7 , 8. So that this Prophecy of Christ , and of the New-Testament-Worship , evidently shows , that the Praises of God , solemnly with Singing of Psalms , solemn Prayer , and solemn Preaching , and hearing of the Word of God , should be those Ordinances of Christ , ( and in such manner as there mentioned ) as the Duties of Christians under the New Testament . And it is here further added , whereas the Apostle saith To day ; this day is interpreted by the Apostle to be meant , 1. Not of the Seventh-Day-Rest from the Creation , Heb. 4. 6 , 7 , 8. 2. Nor of the Typical-Re●● Joshuah gave them in the Land of Canaa● , Heb. 4. 6 , 7 , 8. but of another certain Day limited in David's Psalms , Heb. 4. 7. which is called 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , a Sabbatism , a keeping of a Sabbath , remaining to the People of God , Heb. 4. 9. And this Sabbatism is the Day of our Lord Jesus , when he ceased from his Work of Redemption , as God did from his of Creation , Heb. 4. 10. And which is that Day of our Lord Jesus ? Is it not the Day of his Resurrection , that 's our Lord's-Day-Sabbath , which David so long before foretold should be celebrated with solemn Prayer , Preaching , and Hearing of the Word , and with Singing of Psalms with a joyful Noise . [ And thus what was written afore-time , was written for our Learning , and is full of Instruction to us , and doth serve for Reproof and Correction ; likewise to such who do not hearken to every part of those Duties which are enjoined upon them therein , but cavil themselves out of the practice of it , with groundless and unnecessary Objections , and childish Questions ] . But further , ( saith he ) our Spiritual and Eternal Sabbatism , partly as with Christ from Sin and Misery , both in this World , and that which is to come , Jesus our High Priest being passed into the Heavens , Heb. 4. 15 , 16. Mr. Cotton speaks the same with this worthy Man , pag. 10 , 11.

2ly , The next Scripture-Prophecy , that shews clearly how the Lord's People should sing now in Gospel-Days , is that in Isa. 52. 7 , 8. Thy Watchmen shall life up the Voice ; with the Voice together shall they sing . It is worthy your noting to consider , what Time this Prophecy did refer to ; which you may soon see , if you read the Context , How beautiful upon the Mountains are the feet of them that bring good Tydings , &c. Which the Apostle absolutely applies to the Time of the Gospel , and to Gospel-Ministers , Rom. 10. 15. And the Prophet doth not only say , The Watchmen shall lift up their Voice , and with the Voice together sing , but also calls upon the desolate and waste places to sing together ; which can refer to none but the Lord's People , who in Gospel-Days shall be made a Praise to him who had been as a poor barren and waste Wilderness . For ( saith the Prophet ) in the next words , The Lord hath made his Arm bare in the Eyes of all Nations , and the ends of the Earth shall see the Salvation of God , Vers. 10.

Now this place directly declares the manner how we ought to Sing , that is , with Voices together . And thus I find a most Reverend and Learned Man speak upon the place : David's Psalms ( saith he ) were Sung together in Heart and Voice , by the twenty four , Orders of the Musicians , who typed out the twenty four Elders , ( which our Annotators , and others say signify the Church and Ministers of Christ ) , and so saith this Author , viz. All the Members of Christian Churches , Rev. 5. 8. who are made Kings and Priests to God , to praise him as they did ; for if there had been any other Order of Singing besides the Body of the People , to succeed those formerly used , the Lord would doubtless have given directions how or what it was . Not Moses only , but all Israel sang ; and the Women , as well as the Men , also intimateth that that Song John speaks of , Rev. 15. 3. which , saith he , the Protestant Churches getting Victory over the Beast , with Harps in their hands , and Singing the Song of Moses refers to that Song and manner of Singing Exod. 15. 1 , 2. And there is no doubt of it but it doth . Moreover , ( saith he ) Isaiah foretells , in the days of the New Testament , that God's Watchmen , and dissolates lost Souls , ( signified by desolate and waste places ) should , with their Voice , Sing together , Isa. 52. 8 , 9. The Song of the Lamb ( saith he ) was with many together , Rev. 7. 9 , 10. And the Apostles expresly command the Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and spiritual Songs , not to any select Christians , but to the whole Church , Ephes. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16. Paul and Silas sang together in Prison , Act. 16. 25. and must the Publick hear only one Man Sang ( I must say it would be a strange sight to see and hear , and without any Warrant from God's Word , or Practice of any Church of Christ ) . To all these ( saith he ) we may add the Practice of the Primitive Churches , the testimony of the ancient and holy Basil is instead of many , Epist. 63. When one of us ( saith he ) hath begun a Psalm , the rest of us set in to sing with him , all of us with one Heart , and with one Voice ; and this ( saith he ) is the common practice ( speaking of Basil ) of the Churches of Egypt , Lybia , Thebes , Palestina , Syria . To the same purpose Eusebius gives witness , Eccles. Hist. lib. 2. cap. 17. The Objections ( saith he ) made against this , do most of them plead against joying to Sing in Heart , as well as in Voice , as that by this means others out of the Church will sing , as also that we are not always in a suitable Estate to the matter Sung , and likewise that all cannot Sing with understanding , and are not all therefore who have understanding to join in Heart and Voice together . Are not all the Creatures in Heaven , Earth , Seas , Men , Beasts , Fishes , Fowles , &c. commanded to praise the Lord ? and yet none of these , but Men , and Godly ly Men too , can do it spiritually and with understanding .

The third Scripture Prophecy is , Hos. 2. 15. which clearly alludes to the Gospel-days , 〈◊〉 Expositors shew , viz. when God should make a New Covenant with his People , and betr●●● them to himself for ever : vers 19. I will all●●● her , and bring her into the Wilderness , and speak comfortably unto ber . Vers. 14. And 〈◊〉 give her Vineyards from thence , and the Valey of Achor for a Door of Hope , and she shal● sing as in the days of her Youth , and as in the day when she came up out of the Land of Egypt ; which is clear has respect to that of Exod. 15. see our Annotators on this Text , for it fully confirms Singing under the Gospel , and such a Singing as was of Old .

I shall close this with what Dr. Roberts saith , in his Key to the Holy Bible , pag. 175. Finally , that passage in the Prophet , Thy Watchmen shall lift up the Voice , with the Voice together shall they Sing , is ( saith he ) prophetically spoken of the Times when the Feet of the Messengers of glad-tidings shall be beautiful , who shall say unto Sion , Thy God reigneth . This is interpreted by the Apostle Paul of the Gospel-times under the New Testament .

I rather chuse to give my Understanding of this glorious Truth , in the words of other Men , such worthy and renouned Men as these , than in my own , thinking some may more readily incline to receive the Truth from them , than from such a poor Nothing-creature as I am ; yet , did not I verily believe as they did in this matter , I should not have cited a word from their Pens . Besides some of their Works ●ie in great Folio's , that very few may meet ●ith and what they say , which they prove from God's Word , we ought carefully to receive , though in some things they differ from us : Therefore if any Answer me , they must also answer them in what I have cited out of their Writings , or I shall conclude I have no Answer at all .

CHAP. XII . Proving 't is our Duty to sing the Praises of God with united Voices , from the great Noise such are said to make when they sing .

THis appears by that in Exod. 32. 17 , 18. And when Joshua heard the noise of the People as they shouted , he said to Moses , There is War in the Camp , vers. 17. And he said , It is not the Voice of them that shout for mastery , neither is it the Voice of them that cry for being overcome ; but the noise of them that sing , do I hear , vers. 18. Certainly one Man's Voice could not have made such a Noise , nothing can be more clear , but that they sung with united Voices together .

Obj. But here it is objected , This was in praise of the Golden Calf , and so no rule .

Answ. 'T is no matter to whom they sung , it was their Sin and horrid Wickedness to give that Divine Worship and Praise to a molten●mage , that belonged to God only ; but there is no question but they sung now to this false God , as they had done , cap. 15. to the true God of Heaven and Earth , and therein lay part of their wicked and horrid Deed.

The second Scripture is Psal. 81. 1 , 2. Sing aloud unto God , make a joyful Noise : which cannot be apply'd to one Man's Singing , and divers others in the Book of Psalms before cited .

The third place is that in Rev. 19. which is a Prophecy of that triumphant Singing tha● shall be in the Church throughout the Earth , or in all Nations , at the downfal of Babyl●● And after these things I heard a great voice 〈◊〉 much People in Heaven , saying , Alleluj●● vers. 1. And I heard as it were , the Voice of 〈◊〉 great Multitude , and as the Voice of many W●●ters , and as the Voice of mighty Thundrings , saying , Allelujah ; for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth , Vers. 6. That Singing that is represented to John by these kind of Noises , can 〈◊〉 signify the Singing of one single Man in 〈◊〉 Congregation : and though it is said to be , 〈◊〉 at that time to such a degree , and on that occasion extraordinarily performed , yet it makes not against ordinary Singing , which is a Gospel-Precept ( as hath been proved ) ; for as there are times of extraordinary Prayer , so of extraordinary Praise and Singing to Jehovah . Moreover , it follows no more that we must not sing at all , unless we have an extrordinary cause to be merry or rejoice in God ; then it doth follow we may not pray at all , unless we are afflicted , James 5. 13.

I shall now shut up this with three or four Arguments , and proceed to the next Chapter .

Arg. 1. If it was never commanded of God , nor the Practice of his People under the Old Testament , nor in the New , in the ordinary Worship of God ▪ for one Man alone to sing by himself in the publick Congregation ; then for any to attempt to bring such a Practice into the Church would be a great Evil , and an absolute piece of Will-worship , or an Innovation . But it was never the Practice of God's People under the Old Testament , nor in the New , nor commanded of God in the ordinary Worship of God , for one Man alone to sing by himself in the publick Congregation . Ergo , For any to attempt to bring such a Practice into the Church , would be a great Evil , and an absolute piece of Will-worship , or an Innovation .

The Major certainly every Man will grant , that is resolved not to add to , or diminish from God's Word , or doth believe there must be no Additions nor Alterations to what is laid down in Christ's New Testament : for by that Argument , if one new Practice may be admitted , others may .

As to the Minor , if any can shew me in the Old or New Testament , that any one Man in the ordinary Worship of God was allowed thus to do , I must confess my Argument is lost ; but if they cannot do that , 't is unan●swerable .

Arg. 2. If singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , be injoyned on , or required of the Churches by the Holy Ghost in the New Testament ; and that there is no other way , manner , or 〈◊〉 prescribed , than what was used by the S●●●ts under the Old Testament , and by Christ and his Disciples in the New , viz. a singing together with a melodious Voice ; then that way the 〈◊〉 sung under the Old Testament , and Christ 〈◊〉 his Disciples under the New , is to be our Rule 〈◊〉 Practice in Singing , and there is no other . 〈◊〉 singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual 〈◊〉 is enjoyned on , or required by the Holy Ghost 〈◊〉 the Churches in the New Testament , and 〈◊〉 is no other way , manner or mode prescr●●●d than what was used by the Saints under the Old Testament , and by Christ and his Apostles ●●der the New . Ergo , To sing together with a melodious Voice , is to be our Rule and Practice in singing , and there is no other .

No body will surely deny my Major ; if any can find another way , manner or mode prescribed , let him shew it us . As to the Minor , that singing of Psalms , &c. is injoyned , I know no body doth deny it .

Arg. 3. If whatsoever was writte● aforetime , or given forth in the Old Testament by the Spirit , especially which were moral Duties ; nay , and given forth afresh in the New , was , as to matter and manner , for our Instruction and Learning ; and singing of Psalms , and Hymns and Spiritual Songs , which is a moral Duty , was given forth aforetime , nay , and it is given forth afresh in the New ; then the matter and manner of Singing , as practised in the Old , and practised in the New , was for our Learning and Instruction , that we should do the same . But whatsoever was written aforetime , or given forth in the Old Testament by the Spirit especially , which were moral Duties , nay , and given forth afresh in the New , as to matter and manner , was for our Instruction and Learning ; and singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , which is a moral Duty , was given forth aforetime in the Old Testament , and afresh in the New . Ergo , Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , as to matter and manner , as practised in the Old Testament and in the New , was for our Learning and Instruction , that we should so do , and practise the same .

The Major cannot be denied , the Minor is proved from that in Rom. 15. 4. For whatsoever was written aforetime , was written for our Learning , 2 Tim. 3. 16. and from what I have said in this Treatise , wherein 't is evinced , that Singing , &c. is a moral Duty , and given forth both in the Old and New Testament .

If any object and say , that then we must sing nothing but David's Psalms , or the Songs contained in the Old and New Testament . I answer , The Matter that then was sung was God'● Word , or Divine and Holy Songs , and so must the Matter of our Songs be the Psalms of David , or the Word of Christ , i. e. such things that are certainly Divine and Sacred , congruous with the Word of God or spiritual Songs .

If they object about the manner used under the Law with Musical Instruments . I answer , 〈◊〉 plead for no other manner than was practised in the New Testament as well as in the Old ; 〈◊〉 under the Old we read of singing together with united Voices without Instruments , and the same in the New : So that unless Instruments of Musick ( as Organs , &c. ) were used in the New Testament , they are unlawful to be brought into the Worship of God ; and in vain is it for any to object against Singing , because Musical Instruments were used under the Old Testament , since the one is given forth in the New , viz. singing Psalms , without mention made of Instruments of Musick , and so practised also . But to that Objection I purpose to give a full Answer when I come to consider of Mr. Marlow's Book .

Arg. 4. If Christ and his Disciples never practised , nor injoyned on the Churches any Ordinance or Duty , but they left a sufficient Rule how such Ordinances or Duties should be performed ; and yet Christ and his Disciples did sing , and injoyned singing of Psalms , &c. on the Churches ; then they left a sufficient Rule how singing of Psalms , &c. should be performed . But Christ and his Disciples did practise and injoin singing of Psalms and Hymns , &c. Ergo , Christ and his Disciples have left a sufficient Rule to shew how singing of Psalms and Hymns should be performed .

This Argument cannot be denied ; therefore let our Brethren consider where the fault lies , who do not see the way how to sing , &c. 'T is said , Moses was faithful in all God's House , as a Servant , and was careful to do every thing according to the Patern shewed him in the Mount ; but Christ , as a Son , is faithful over his own House . Now since Singing was required of the Churches by Christ ( for what the Apostles injoyned by the Spirit , Christ injoyned ) in the New Testament , certainly he has left a sufficient Direction how it ought to be performed , otherwise it would reflect upon his Wisdom and Faithfulness . Strange ! is Singing practised by Christ and his Apostles , and injoined on the Churches , and is there no certain way to know what that Singing is , nor how it should be performed ? I stand in a maze to see how confused some are in their Minds and Sentiments about it ! one saying 't is only Heart-Joy ; others 't is no more than to praise or give Thanks to God in Prayer ; saith another , 't is to be performed or done by one single Man alone in the Congregation , tho not one Example or Precedent in all the Scripture in God's ordinary Worship for any such Practice . O how hard is it to bring Men off from their own conceited Opinions , or to receive a Truth they either 〈◊〉 prejudiced against , or else not willing to have it to be received as an Ordinance of God!

CHAP. XIII . Shewing what the Matter is the Saints and Churches of Christ should sing i● Gospel-Times ; opening what Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs are .

ONE Objection that is brought against Singing , is this , viz. We do not know what we should sing , and therefore do not sing in our Congregations . I must confess , if Singing was practised and injoined , and nothing was left in God's Word to shew us what it is we are to sing , it would be strange , and a sufficient Plea against the practice of it ; but such a thing could not stand consistent with the Wisdom of the Spirit . But , blessed be God 't is not so , as we by his Assistance shall now further make appear : For we have , first , our Pattern , which is Christ's practice with his Disciples , in this Case as in others . 2dly , The Rule , which are those Precepts laid down in the New Testament ; Christ and his Disciples sung an Hymn . And be sure the Matter of it was Spiritual , it being performed by those Sacred and Holy Persons , and in the Sacred Worship of God , i. e. just as they had celebrated the Holy Supper . But to speak to the Rule ; see Ephes. 5. 19. Be ye filled with the Spirit , speaking to your selves in Psalms , and Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , singing and making melody in your Hearts to the Lord . So , Col. 3. 16. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly , in all Wisdom , teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms , and Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , singing with Grace in your Hearts to the Lord .

Here you have six Things observable , or the words contain six parts .

First , The Matter to be sung in the general , viz. the Word of Christ ; Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all Wisdom , teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms , &c. singing with Grace in your Hearts .

Like as the Word of Christ ought to dwell in us richly , that we may meditate thereon , and be able to preach it , hear it , and understand it , &c. so to sing it . The Word of Christ is therefore positively laid down to be the Matter we must and ought to sing in the general ; for we are injoined , to have it dwell richly in us in this place , more especially to sing it , than on any other account .

Secondly , The Singers , that is , the Church , or Churches to whom he wrote , more particularly the Saints and faithful in Christ at Ephesus , and at Coloss , and in them to all other Saints and Churches of Christ to the end of the World .

Thirdly , More particularly the Matter to be sung , viz. Psalms , and Hymus , and Spiritual Songs .

Fourthly , The Manner , or how it should be performed , i. e. with Melody , or Spiritual Joy in the Heart , or Grace . What he calls Melody in our Heart in one place , he calls Grace in the Heart in the other . The Tongue is the Instrument , but it must be tun'd with Grace , or the Musick will not be sweet in Christ's Ears . In Singing of Psalms , &c. ( saith one ) a gracious Heart takes Wings , and mounts up to God to join with the Celestial Quire : It is Grace which fills the Heart for , and sweetens the Heart in this Duty .

Fifthly , The Master of the Chore , the Preceptor , as Mr. Wells saith , viz. the Heart ; we must look to the Heart in Singing , that it is purged by the Spirit . God is the Creator of the whole Man , and therefore will be worshipped and praised with the whole Man . The whole Man is bought with a Price ; our Tongues as well as our Spirits are not our own ; therefore we ought to glorify God in our Bodies , and in our Spirit , which are the Lords , 1 Cor. 6. 19 , 20. My Heart is fixed , O God , my Heart is fixed : I will sing and give praise , Psal. 57. 7. Awake my Glory , &c. I my self will awake . What was this which David calls his Glory ? ( all tell you ) it was his Tongue ; and in Singing and Praising of God , the Glory of it much lies , when the Heart is filled and fixed with Grace in the discharge of this Duty .

So in Psal. 108. 1. O God , my Heart is fixed : I will sing , and give praise with my Glory .

Augustine saith , It is not a musical String , but a working Heart that is harmonious . Mary sung with her Tongue , and her Heart was in her magnificent Song . And , as saith another Godly Man ; When we sing Psalms , &c. let us take heed that we have the same thing in our Mind , that we warble forth with our Tongues , and that our Song and our Heart do not run several ways . If ( saith Mr. Wells ) we in Singing only offer the Calves of our Lips , it will too much resemble the Jewish Service . Men may hear , or pray , as well as sing carnally ; therefore we should remember to do as the Apostle teaches , to sing with the Spirit , and with the Vnderstanding also , 1 Cor. 14. 15.

Sixthly , and lastly , The End , viz. to glorify the Lord , and lift up his Praise . God is to be our true and only Scope , i. e. to set forth his Glory ought to be our ultimate End , I mean , when we sing and perform all other Duties of Religion .

Now then , since the Word of Christ is the Matter in general that ought to be sung ; it appears we are not left without Directions by the Spirit about this Ordinance , ( let Men say what they please ) for as 't is Christ's Word we should and ought always to preach , and hear , so 't is his Word we should and ought to sing : And as we are not tied up by the Lord in Preaching , to do no more than barely read the Scripture , or quote one Scripture after another , ( which would be rather Reading than Preaching ) but may use other Words to edify the Church , provided they agree with , or are congruous to the Word of Christ , or the Sacred Scripture , ( and yet we call that the Word of God which is preached , and so indeed it is ) ; so when that which we sing is taken out of God's Word , or is Scripture , absolutely congruous , truly and exactly agreeing thereunto , it may as truly be called the Word of Christ , as our Sermons are , and may be so called .

Obj. But you add words to your Hymns that are not in the Text you refer to .

So we do in Preaching ; but if those words agree with the Text , 't is still the same Word , and may be opened thereby the better to the understandings of the People . Besides , let it be considered , that we have not the Holy Scriptures in those words in which they were written by the Pen-Men of the Scripture , for they wrote the Old Testament in Hebrew words , and the New-Testament in Greek words . Also the Translators differ much in words in giving the true sense of the Original , so that this Objection is a mere contentious Cav●● . Moreover , there are in our Bibles ( all Learned Men know ) a multitude of Suppliments , or words added , to make good the sense , the Originals being too short to express it in our Language . Now you may as well , nay , if not with more colour of reason say , part of the Scripture is Human , and not Divine , as to call our Sacred Hymns so : And so you may by the same Argument call our Sermons likewise . 'T is evident , as Mr. Barton observes ( in his Epistle to his Book of Hymns ) That Justin Martyr , Tertullian , and many others have signified the Primitive Church used , not only David's Psalms , but other Portions of Scripture to put in Songs for edification . Hymns may ( as he saith ) be plainer than Psalms , and more suitable to Gospel-occasions , such in which Christians may truly say they do teach and admonish one another in ; such ( saith he ) as inculcate our Duties , and reprove our Vices , out of most piercing Passages of Holy-Scripture , and such as may answer or suit with all Sermons , and accommodate all Occurrences , and are no Innovations , but reduction to primitive Use and Order .

Remarkable is that passage in Eusebius concerning the Christians practice in singing of Hymns to Christ as to God . Plinius Secundus , to clear the Christians to Trajan , adds this , viz. Only that they held early Assemblies in Singing of Hymns to Christ , as unto God , Euseb. lib. 3. cap. 33. Doubtless they were compiled by some among them out of the New-Testament , as the Spirit of God might enable them , in the same manner as they did , and we do compile our Sermons : and I see no other objection lies here against our Hymns , than lies , or may be made against our Doctrine .

Thus as to the general Direction the Holy Ghost has given about what we should sing , viz. the Word of Christ .

But then , Secondly , we have particular Directions as to the Matter we ought to sing expressed in the Texts , viz. Psalms , and Hymns , and Spiritual Songs . I know some do conclude , that all these three allude to the Book of Psalms , because these three are the Titles , they say , of Davids Psalms . Though that were granted , that some of David's Psalms are called Hymns and Songs , yet I see no reason that all other spiritual Hymns and Songs should be excluded .

1. Because we often find in the New-Testament the Psalms of David , or Book of Psalms mentioned , as comprehending all those Hymns and Songs contained therein , without calling them the Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs of David , see Luk. 20. 42. & 24. 44. Act. 1. 20.

Moreover this seems to exclude other Scripture-Songs , that they themselves own may be sung , as Moses's , Deborah's , Isaiah's , Habakk●k's , Simeon's , Zachariah's , Mary's , &c.

However , by Psalms we are assured is intended the Book of Psalms , or those called the Psalmes of David , because we read not in all the Scripture of any called Psalms but them only ; so that the Form of these are contained in God's Word ; I hope these will not be called Human● ▪ The Holy Ghost hath enjoined the Singing of Psalms particularly , and many of the Psalms of David , are , 't is evident , pure Gospel , i. e. Prophecies and Promises that relate or refer wholly unto Gospel-times ; and divers excellent Psalms there are , that be filled full of the High Praises of God for Christ , and the Blessings and Priviledges Christians receive by him ; tho I do not judg all the Psalms of David are so sutable to our days , nor can be so properly sung as some others , to the Edification of the Church . But ,

I do not find any Man giving any convincing Argument , that no Hymns that are made out of God's Word , or putting other Scripture-Songs , as the Canticles , &c. into Verse , or proper Measure to be sung , are excluded in those words , Psalms , and Hymns and Spiritual Songs . I am of the same Mind with those Learned Men that Mr. Wilson in his Dictionary , and others speak of , that Psalms , Hymns and Spiritual Songs comprehend all kinds of Spiritual Songs , whereby the Faithful sing to the Glory of God , and the Edification of the Church , provided they are taken out of the Word of Christ . Moreover , I have met with a Piece written by a very Learned Man , who after he hath given the Sense of some Men about the Titles of the Psalms , and various Acceptation of the words , Psalms , Hymns and spiritual Songs , speaks thus , Yet I must tell you by the way , that these words in the Hebrew do not make such a precise difference : For Tehillim is the general Title of all the Psalms ; Mismor the particular Title of most Psalms , as well as of the Psalms of Degrees : Nor do the Greek Words make such a distinguishing difference , for a Psalm is of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 to sing , and a Hymn of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , to sing Praise : And 〈◊〉 Odo , called a spiritual Ode , or Song , by 〈◊〉 Translators , is of the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , so that it seems to me , saith he , that the Apostle useth many words to signify that all 〈◊〉 Singing should be of Divine Things , ( and not vain things ) to glorify God , and not to please our foolish Fancies . But whether we distinguish the one way or the other , 〈◊〉 see ( saith he ) the Apostles press the Duty of spiritual Singing , whether of this kind or that , ( viz. whether Psalms of David , 〈◊〉 other spiritual Hymns ; ) whether called of Men of this Name , or that Name , in which Injunctions the Apostles are so clear , that very few since the coming of Christ , that I know of , have made scruple of the thing ; and if any have of late , they never mention these places , as if either they did not remember them , or could not answer them .

And to close this Chapter , take what worthy Mr. Wells minds in his late Sermon about su●● who neglect this Ordinance , either about endless Scruples or Objections concerning the matter or manner of Singing . Let us , says he ▪ not disturb our selves with these groundless Objections , but let us pursue and imbrace this holy Duty , which is the very Subu●●s of Heaven . And observe what a Reverend Person notes upon this occasion ; I observe , saith he , they never thrive well who neglect or scruple singing of Psalms ; they commonly begin at this Omission , but they do not end there , but at last come to be above all Ordinances , and so indeed without them , whose Condition is not sufficiently to be deplored . Suppl . to Morning Exercis . p. 189.

To which let me add my Thoughts without offence ; I am perswaded , for several reasons , since this is so clear an Ordinance in God's Word , that the Baptized Churches , who lie short of the Practice of singing Psalms , &c. will never thrive to such a degree as our Souls long to see them , to the Honour of the Holy God , and Credit of our sacred Profession , and Joy and Comfort of those who are truly spiritual among us : for tho many things , as the Causes of our sad witherings , have been inquired into ; yet I fear this , and the neglect of the Ministry , are the two chief , which are both holy Ordinances of Jesus Christ ; and yet our People , ( that is , some of them ) do not love to hear of either of them .

CHAP. XIV . Shewing who ought to sing Psalm● Hymns , and spiritual Songs ; whether it ought to be done in the publick Congregation , and in a mixt Assembly or no.

'T IS strange that any should doubt , whether it be the Duty of the Church to sing ( as well as private Families or Persons ) since our blessed Saviour , with his eleven Disciples , upon the closing of the holy Supper , sung together an Hymn in that solemn Assembly ; if we may not , ought not to follow them in the Practice of Singing an Hymn from thence , what ground is there to break Bread in our publick Assemblies from that Example ? This is the Institution of that Ordinance ; and , as he took Bread and blessed it , and took the Cup after the same manner , &c. so 't is said when they had done they sung an Hymn , and went out , &c.

'T is observable 't is not said , Do this in your publick Assemblies : and therefore some may say , we will break Bread , or celebrate that Ordinance in our own private Families in an upper Chamber , as Christ and his Disciplies did , and sing an Hymn when we have done , and so exclude publick Assemblies for that part of God's Worship . But to proceed ; we read , as I have again and again shewed you , that the Apostle injoins Singing on the Churches , Ephes. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16.

Object . But he doth not bid the whole Church to sing , &c.

Answ. The Apostle injoins the Lord's-Supper on the Church of the Corinthians , 1 Cor. 11. 23 , 24. But some may say , he doth not bid every one of them to break Bread ; how doth it follow every Member ought so to do ? there would be no end of such Objections . But by this Rule , any Precept injoined on the Churches may be restrained to a few Persons only , and so it would open a Door to Men to excuse themselves from being concerned in other parts of Gospel-Duties and Worship : therefore where a Duty is injoyned by the holy Spirit on the Churches , without the least hint or intimation that it concerns only some of them , nay , and an Ordinance in which there is the same parity of Reason , why one should be found in it as well as another , that Duty concerns the whole Church , or every Member : but it is so in the case of singing of Psalms , Hymns , and spiritual Songs : pray what ground has one Man to sing from hence more than another ?

Are not all equally concerned to praise God ? nay , and having received equal Mercies , Blessings and Priviledges , to sing his Praises , since 't is required of all , without the least exemption of any one ?

Object . But what ground is there to sing thus in the Church before or after Sermon ?

Answ. 1. As much surely as there is to pray before or after Sermon ; nay , 't is evident , if we do not take our Rule to pray before and after Sermon from those general Precepts that injoyn Prayer , then I do declare I know no Rule at all for it in all the New Testament , for we have neither Precept nor Example in the case , but where we read of Duties that concern only some Persons , and not the whole Church , the Holy Ghost mentions the Persons , 1. Either by their Relations they stand in one to another ; Or , 2. Else by their Condition in the World . Or , 3. By their Office or Place they stand in .

As there are particular Duties that concern Parents , Children , Masters , Servants , Ministers , Members : Also Kings , Subjects , rich Men , poor Men , Men in Adversity , or Men in Prosperity , all sorts and conditions of Men.

But here this Duty comes under no such particular Consideration ; but as 't is the Duty of all to hear God's Word , and to pray with united Hearts , so to sing together with united Voices , there being no other manner or way prescribed , as I have shewed , for the discharge of that Duty or Ordinance of God .

But I would fain be resolved by my Brethren , or any other , what Ordinance of God or Duty it is that appertains to his Worship which ought to be performed in private , that may not be performed in publick .

Take what famous Mr. Cotton of New-England speaks as to the Answer of this Objection , 't is thus stated by him , viz.

Object . Scarce any Example can be given of any intire Congregation that sung together mentioned in the Scripture .

Answ. Tho no Example could be given for it , yet it is a sufficient Warrant for the Duty if there be a Precept ; and , saith he , the Precept is plain , Col. 3. 16. where the whole Church of Coloss is exhorted to have the Word of Christ dwell in them richly , and to admonish one another in Psalms , &c. to sing with Grace or holy Melody to the Lord . If God , saith he , had reserved this Duty to some select Choristers , he would have given some Directions in the New Testament for their Qualification and Election ; but since he speaketh nothing of any such , &c. he commandeth this Duty to the whole Church .

2dly , The Practice of God's Israel of old , ( i. e. Moses and the Children of Israel ) is a further Solution to this Objection ; for there is an Example of singing together ; and besides , that there was a mixt Multitude with them too is evident , who , no doubt , sung with them , having received the like Mercies they did . See Exod. 12. 38.

In the Manuscript I have by me before cited ( which seems to be wrote by a Man of Parts and good Ability ) who , speaking to this Objection , says much to the same purpose ; First , That we have a Precept which is more than a Precedent . Secondly , That we have Precedents for it in the Old Testament . And say I , it being no ceremonial Rite , but a moral and perpetual Duty , that in the Old Testament is as much a Rule for us herein , as their religious reading the Scriptures , and keeping of Days of Prayer and Fasting , and Days of Thanksgiving : if this be not so , in vain are our People pressed and stirred up to those Duties by the Authority of those Texts in the Old Testament , as I said in Chap. 4. pag. 47.

Besides , we find 't is prophesied of , that in Gospel-days , as has been shewed , Sions Watchmen , and desolate Souls , or waste places , should lift up their Voice , and with their Voice together shall sing , Isa. 52. 7 , 8. And certainly that in Rev. 19. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4. those Hallelujahs that shall be sung in the Gospel-Churches at the downfal of Babylon , will be doubtless with Voices , since 't is said to be the Voice of much People , as the Voice of many Waters , and as the Voice of mighty Thunderings .

Christ ( saith Mr. Cotton ) and his Disciples when they received the Lord's-Supper , which was a Church-Act , they were an intire Congregation , and they after Supper , sung an Hymn . To say that one sung it , saith he , and the others joined in Spirit , saying , Amen , hath no foot-hold in the Text , it might as well be said , they all took the Bread , they all blessed it , and gave it , in that one did it , and all the rest joyned in Spirit and consented in that , and in the blessing of it .

But 't is said [ they ] sung the Hynm , not he alone , yet [ he ] is said to give Thanks , or to bless the Bread , &c.

It is no strain of Wit , saith he , but a solid and judicious Exposition of the fourth Chapter of the Revelation , to make it a Description of a particular visible Church of Christ , according to the Platform and Patern of the New Testament ; whereas the four living Creatures are four sorts of Officers , so the twenty four Elders set forth the Brethren of the Church in respect of their ripe Age , Gal. 4. 1 , 2 , 3. and twenty four in number answering to the twenty four Orders of Priests and Levites , 1 Chron. 25. 9 , &c. and these are all said to joyn together in singing a new Song unto the Lamb. If his Exposition may not be admitted , yet all Expositors agree , that by the four Beasts and twenty four Elders , are meant the Church and the Officers in the Church , and then their singing together doth confirm the manner of Gospel-singing with united Voices together in God's Worship .

Object . But what ground is there for the Church to joyn in singing of Psalms , &c. with Vnbelievers ?

Answ. 1. Unbelievers joyning with them , is one thing , and their joyning with Unbelievers , is another : And since 't is a Church-Ordinance ( as we have clearly proved all along it is ) what Rule or Ground hath the Church to put Unbelievers forth of their Assemblies if they knew them from others ? there may be Unbelievers in the Church , and there may be Believers out of the Church .

2. What ground hath the Church to pray with Unbelievers ? certainly the Communion together in Spirit is more close and intimate than that of uniting the Voice ; so that if it be unlawful to let them sing with us , 't is unlawful to let them in their Hearts joyn in Prayer with us .

Must not the Children have their Bread , because Strangers will get some of it ? Besides , in the Church of Corinth , when Singing was brought in amongst them , as well as a Doctrine , &c. the Apostle speaks of Unbelievers coming into their Assemblies : and 't is one Reason he gives why they should take heed to prevent Confusion , and not to suffer one to bring in a Doctrine , ( or many together ) and another an Interpretation , and another a Psalm , to put them all on Singing , and so have all these Ordinances confounded together , in a disorderly and confused manner : So 1 Cor. 14. vers. 26. compared with vers. 23.

3. If Singing be a part of natural Religion , or a moral Duty , as Prayer is , this Objection is gone for ever : So that he that answers what we say here , will do nothing unless he can make it appear Singing the Praises of God is a meer positive Precept , and had never been known to be the Duty of Mankind , without some written Law or Prescription . Are not all Creatures called upon to sing and praise their Creator ? and have not Unbelievers cause to praise God , nay , sing his Praise for the Mercies and Blessings God doth bestow upon them ? Nay , have they not cause to praise God for Christ and the Gospel ? &c. What is Singing but praising of God ? And would you not have ●ny to do this but the Saints ? Ought not all Men on Earth to pray , tho till they have Faith their Prayers are not accepted of God ?

I shall conclude this Chapter with what Mr. Sidenham hath so well said to this Objection .

Many who grant Singing to be an Ordinance ( saith he ) among Saints , yet stumble to sing in a promiscuous manner with others , especially because so many Psalms , &c. are of such composition , that doth not seem to concern a mixt multitude .

For opening of this , I must lay down this general Position , That Prayer and Praises are natural Duties belonging to all Men as Men , though only the Saints can do them best and spiritually ; it is so upon all Men by the Law of Creation , to seek to God for what they want , and to thank him for what they have : this is due unto God , owing unto him as Creator and Benefactor ; and though Singing be a part of instituted Worship , yet it is as an addition of Order , and a regulation of a natural Duty : And as there is no Man but is bound to pray for Mercies , so none are exempted from praising God for Mercies , though they sing in a low●● Tune than Saints . Thus David calls in 〈◊〉 Creatures to bless and praise God , as a natural Duty , according to their several Capacities , Psal. 136. Psal. 117. Psal. 10● Psal. 20. 21 , 22. Praise , is the natural Duty of all , the proper Duty of Saints , and 〈◊〉 perfect Duty of Angels and glorified Souls .

Object . You will say , They cannot perf●●● it aright .

Sol. 1. Their want of Ability doth 〈◊〉 discharge them from such a Duty engrav●● on their Consciences , from the natural respects they have to God as a Creator ; 〈◊〉 perform which , God gave them full power ▪ Let every Man do his Duty conscientiously ▪ he may afterwards come to do it spiritually 〈◊〉 though I should lose the sense of a Duty i● my Conscience , yet the Duty lies on my Conscience from God's Authority , and my Relation to him .

By the same Rule , every one should abstain from performance of a Duty for 〈◊〉 of present Ability , whereas the Duty mu●● be done , and strength expected from Heaven , and waited for according to the divin● manner of Dispensation .

2. It 's not unlawful to join in any Act with others , or to countenance them in it , which is really their Duty as well as 〈◊〉 own : I cannot sin in joining with any one in that Act , to perform which is the Duty of another , as mine , though he may want the present Ability .

For Duties must be measured according to the Rule , not the Ability of the Performer . Now , it 's no Duty for any Man to receive the Lord's Supper , or be a Member of a Church in order to Communion , without he find himself in some measure fitted by Grace , these Sealing Ordinances of the Gospel , suppose and require some other Qualification , and are peculiar to visible Saints ; but where there is a natural Character , or an Ordinance as to the Substance of it , at least equally concerning all , there is no Sin to join in the administration of it : And if we consider of it warily , unregenerate Men are great sharers in the Mercies of the Churches , besides their own particular Duty , that they may well join with them in setting forth God's Praises . But more closely and particularly .

1. When the Church and Saints of God are gathered together to worship him in Singing , it is no more unlawful to sing with others that stand by and join their Voices , than when in Prayer they stand by and give their Consent ; we do not so much join with them , as they do own God's Actings among us : It is no sin in them to join with us in such a Duty , neither can it be any sin in us to sing , though others very carnal will outwardly praise God with us .

2. The Carriage of the Saints in their hearty and real Expressions of Praises , may convince others in the coldness and lowness of their Spirit , and stir them up to some spiritual Apprehensions . Sidenham 〈◊〉 Singing , pag. 213 , 214 , 215.

'T is evident the Church is not bound to worship God alone in the Administration of the Gospel , and not suffer the People to come among them , unless she intends to become no Church in a short time ; for how shall she increase or have Children born in her ? Is not Hearing the Word of God preached , and Publick Prayer , as Sacred Ordinances of Gospel-Worship , 〈◊〉 Singing ? Why then may they be admitted to join with the Church in those Ordinances , ( which they are no better able to perform acceptably to God , than in Singing ) and be denied to sing ? By this Rule others must not be admitted to join with the Church in one part of Gospel-Worship , you must not suffer them to join with us in any , but even 〈◊〉 the Doors upon them , and worship God alone . And should we deny them to do this , it might also lay a Stumbling-block in their way , and give them a just offence against the Lord's People . See more in Chap. 9. where we have spoken further to this Objection .

CHAP. XV. Wherein Mr. Marlow's Book , and many other Objections raised against singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , are fully and plainly answered .

THough all that are impartial , who shall read Mr. Marlow's Book against Singing , and consider what I have already said in this Treatise , will say , He is answered : Yet I shall now give a particular Reply to all that is any ways material contained in it , which I have not detected and answered before .

That which he insinuates , pag. 3 , 4. about the Weakness and Imbecility of some Christians about their reception of this Ordinance as a dangerous thing , needs no Reply ; he would fain make his Reader think , to receive singing of Psalms , &c. as an Ordinance , is no less than a falling away from the Truth . So clearly ( saith he ) manifested by the Holy Scripture , and witnessed to by the Sufferings of the purest Churches in our Age , who have born a lively Testimony , not only against the humane prescribed and precomposed Forms of Prayer , but against singing David ' s Psalms , and other Hymns or Songs precomposed by Man .

Answ. 'T is not a falling away from Truth , to restore a lost or neglected Ordinance of the Gospel , ( as you I perceive dare not deny , but this of Singing is ) ; The main difference is about the Manner , or what Singing is . We say it is going forward i● the glorious Work of Reformation . What though some Baptized Churches ( who I do believe have attained to greater Purity in some things , than some others ) have born such a Witness against Singing of David's Psalms ; is it therefore no Ordinance of Christ ? must they needs know every Truth of Christ ? Is there any Church that is yet arrived to such a perfection of Knowledg , that they need not the discovery of any Truth but what they have received ? I am afraid some of those Churches are yet short of the Knowledg and Practice of another Ordinance as well as this , and speak against it as against this , though it is one of the first Principles of the Doctrine of Christ , Heb. 6. 1 , 2. Are they against the Singing of David's Psalms and Hymns , do ye say ? God forbid ! since the Holy Ghost hath enjoyned the Churches to sing them , pag. 3 , 4.

But to pass over this , you come to consider that Text , Ephes. 5. 14. Speaking to your selves in Psalms , &c.

Object . From these Words , nor the Context relating to them , is there any W●●for a vocal Speaking ; but otherwise it must be understood , a speaking to your own Heart . These are your words .

Answ. 'T is well you do not affirm this , Teaching is then a Preaching , from Psalms , &c. in ordinary Gospel-Administration ; for some there have been , and may be are now , that assert that , ( and I think we shall find you there too by and by ) however , let the Speaking be what it will that is here meant , it is evident 't is such a speaking that is used in Singing ; for so the following words explain it , which you are not willing ( it may be ) to cite ; Singing , and making of Melody in your Hearts to the Lord .

You then mention Col. 3. 16. I confess ( say you ) that Vocal Singing is here to be understood , In Ephes. 3. 19. it was not Vocal Singing , yet here he says , 't is a Vocal Singing . otherwise it could not be Teaching and Admonishing to others in Word or Deed ; but yet here is nothing to prove Vocal Singing together , for Teaching and Admonishing one another in Psalms , &c. is meant of the Ministring Brethren , whose Work it was to teach and admonish the other Members , according to the Gifts they had received ; and none can prove any more by these words [ one another ] than what must be understood from Heb. 3. 13. But exhort one another daily , whilst it is called to day : And therefore as the word Exhortation is not used in the Church , but in an orderly ministerial way , by one at once , &c. must be used also according to Gospel-Rule ; 1 Cor. 14. 26. How is it Brethren ? when you come together , every one of you hath a Psalm , hath a Doctrine , &c. be understood of a Vocal Singing all together ; for I think 〈◊〉 will say , that those words , Every one of you hath , &c. were spoken of all having those Spiritual Gifts , which can't be though of euery Minister in that Church , Vers. 28 ▪ much less of all the Members , &c. So 〈◊〉 cannot be supposed , that all the Ministring Brethren had the Gift of Singing , or 〈…〉 was any distinction of its universality in delivery , more than of other Gifts in the 〈◊〉 Text ; besides the Context speaks of single Persons that must exercise in the Church , 〈◊〉 therefore those words [ every one of you ] 〈◊〉 mean all , &c.

Answ. First of all ; I cannot but take notice how you contradict your self in Ephes. 5. 19. you would have the Apostle , by Teaching and Singing , to mean only a silent Speaking in their Heart , without a Voice .

But , in Col. 3. 16. you confess , that intends a Vocal Singing : Do you think any Man , who has the least Light or Knowledg in the Scripture can groundedly suppose , that the Apostle doth , in Ephes. 5. 19. ( in these words , Speaking to your selves in Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , singing and making of Melody in your Heart to the Lord . And in Col. 3. 16. in these words , Teaching and Admonishing one another in Psalms , and Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , singing with Grace in your Hearts to the Lord ) mean two different things ? Surely there is not one Man to be found of your Opinion , for all generally , with one Mouth , affirm , the Apostle in writing to these two Churches , intends the one and the same Practice . Nor is ●here any thing said by you to convince us to the contrary ; for though the Duty seems to be ●id down in different words , yet it implies the same thing ; speaking to your selves , and teaching and admonishing one another , are of the 〈◊〉 import on this occasion as expressed here ; for the Speaking is in Singing , and so is the Teaching and Admonishing , as the close of the Text opens it to every understanding Man .

2. 'T is observable how you seem to confound this great Duty injoined in ordinary Worship on these two Churches , with the exercise of those extraordinary Gifts , mentioned 1 Cor. 14. 26. which hereafter I purpose to explain , and shew the purport or main drift of the Spirit in that place in 1 Cor. 14 , &c. If any Man did sing in an unknown Tongue alone , 't was because others were not capable to sing with him , and he from thence was not to use such a Gift in the Church , unless there was an Interpreter to give forth that Psalm or Hymn , that so all might sing with him , and be edified in that Ordinance as in others .

3. In the third place , which is yet worst of all , you would have this of Teaching and Admonishing one another in Psalms , &c. singing with Grace in your Heart , to refer to that Heb. 3. 13. which you apply to such who had the Gift to preach Ministerially , and to sing too by the said Gift . In answer to this , in the first place , I thought we should not have had you to affirm , the Apostle means , by Teaching and Admonishing here in this place , to be Preaching , according to that ( in your sense ) you refer to in citing Heb. 3. 13.

Now as to the first part of your Assertion ; had you read Reverend Mr. Cotton , it might have removed this Mistake , and so prevented your pains to trouble the Reader with such an Exposition of the Text : I find him answering an Objection , that directly includes part of yours , in these words following .

Object . The Apostle to the Ephesians and Colossians doth not say , Sing one to another in Psalms , but speak or preach one to another ; or , in other words , Teach and admonish one another ; the Psalms dwelling in their Hearts they were to dispose them in a way of teaching and admonishing ; but as for singing , he makes no mention of that , until he came to teach them the manner of dispensing the words of Christ unto God in one Verse , and then indeed he teacheth them to sing in the Spirit , making Melody with Grace in the Heart .

If I do not mistake you , this Objection contains part of what you say , and pray take his Answer ; I do not doubt but he gives the true sense of the place .

Answ. Such as tremble at the Word , saith he , ( as the framer of this Objection professeth himself to do ) they should rather bow their Judgments and Practice to Scripture-Language , than bow the Sense of Scripture to their own Conceptions against the Language of Scripture ; it is one thing to speak one to another in Psalms , and Hymns , and spiritual Songs , as is done in singing , and another thing to preach and teach one another out of the Psalms , and Hymns , and spiritual Songs . 'T is true , they were to teach and admonish one another out of the Psalms , and the scope of Paul will teach that ; but if Paul had meant that , to wit , that they should teach and preach one to another out of the Psalms , he would not have said , Speak ye one to another in Psalms , or with Psalms , but out of the Psalms , for such is the Language of the Holy Ghost in expressing this Duty ; Paul is said to have expounded and testified , and persw●ded the Jews out of the Law of Moses , and out of the Prophets , Acts 28. 23. So Philip is said to do , begin to preach to the Eun●●h , from that Scripture in Isaiah , Act. 8. 35. Thus Mr. Cotton .

'T is evident , my Brother , that Paul is not a speaking here to Ministers , but to the whole Church , and he is not a laying down Directions to gifted Brethren how they should preach and exhort one another that way , as sometimes he doth , much less about the exercise of extraordinary Gifts ; but 't is to injoin and exhort the Churches to sing Psalms , and Hymns , and spiritual Songs ; how also they should perform this Duty to the Honour of God and their own Comfort , in ordinary Gospel-Administration . Dr. Roberts in his Key to the Bible , pag. 176. saith on these words to this purpose . But Christians should be filled with the Spirit , not filled with Wine , but with the Spirit , and speak one to another in Psalms , 〈◊〉 Hymns , and spiritual Songs , &c. thus rejoicing with Heavenly Melody in your Hearts to the Lord : and the latter words in both places , Eph. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16. are , saith he , exegetical to those in the beginning of the Verses , explaining what he means by speaking , teaching and admonishing , viz. thus , edifying one another in singing Psalms , &c. And it 's an excellent way of speaking to themselves and to one another , when Christians sing Psalms , &c. — therefore , saith he , that speaking to themselves , and teaching one another in Psalms , and Hymns , and spiritual Songs , is 〈…〉 singing .

As to singing with a vocal Voice , you have granted 't is intended by the Holy Ghost in Col. 3. 16. which is as much as I desire . What you hint or imagine of one singing alone has been fully answered , that never having been the Practice of God's People in God's ordinary Worship , neither in the Old or New Testament ; and as touching singing by an extraordinary Gift , more of that anon .

And , saith Mr. Sidenham , many think there can be no such use of Singing , as to teach and admonish one another by it ; but if we consider , there are many Lessons to be learn'd one of another from this publick Conjunction of singing Scripture-Psalms .

1. They teach one another , and by the very Act admonish one another , to get the same Frames these holy Men had in penning the Psalms , and in the variety and spirituality of them to get David's Frame , in singing David's Psalms , &c.

2. 'T is by this they teach one another the Unity and Harmony that is and should be among Saints , as one Body , that their Happiness and Joys are bound up together , and so the Misery of one is the Misery of the whole ; and this is a glorious L●sson to know their Union together , as a Body equally concerned in the Joy or Sorrow of one another , equally interested in the Praises of God . There is no Duty practised in all the Gospel , that doth fully express the Communion of Saints , and represent Heaven , as the Saints singing together . The Lord's Supper doth represent the Communion of Saints very lively , but not so as mutual singing , when all at once , not by consent only , but expresly speak the same thing the same moment . In the Lord's Supper , th● afterwards they were all one Bread , yet they all do not receive it at the same instant of time , but may take successively the Elements ; but in singing they all joyn perfectly at once , to sound forth the Praises of God , as if they had but one Heart and one Voice too . This is the perfect Emblem of Heaven , no jarring , all with one Voice and Heart , crying Hallelujah , Hallelujah .

3. They teach one another this Lesson also , viz. with what Alacrity and Chearfulness they should perform all their Duties together , and how with sweetness of Love and Joy they ought to walk together .

4. They teach one another how to carry themselves in all Conditions with a joyful and praising frame of Spirit , &c. and it shews a Soul is not in a right temper when he cannot sing over his Condition . To which I might add , not are they in that sweet Concord and Union with the Church , or hearty Affection that cannot joyn in one Heart and Voice with them .

5. They teach one another by singing , and admonishing one another ( this way ) to avoid any thing that may hinder their Joys in Communion , and break their Harmony in spiritual Actions ; all which , and many more are great Lessons , and are taught naturally by Saints mutual singing together , pag. 211 , 212.

Object . If any should object , How can Vnbelievers joyn with the Saints in singing , if this be so ?

Answ. This hath been answered already : there are the like Lessons , tho not to that degree and clearness , taught in uniting Hearts together in publick Prayer and Praises , in Prayer and in mutually joyning together equally in hearing God's Word : Nay , and all must grant , that the chiefest and nearest Communion is that of the Heart and Spirit : If therefore you may , and do admit such you speak of , to that Communion and Liberty with you , how dare you , or can you deny them this ? True , the Voice shews that Union that is in the Heart , or sets it forth ; but the chief Fellowship and Unity is in the Spirit , as in the last Chapter I have shewed .

Now I shall come to consider the Method or Form of your Book , or Heads you insist upon , which are laid down in six Particulars .

I. Of the Essence of Singing , ( as you call it . ) II. Of David's Psalms . III. Of prescribed or precomposed Songs . IV. Of Womens Singing . V. Of the Order of Singing . VI. Of Scriptural , and other Objections .

I. Of the Essence of Singing .

Thus you begin , viz. Though intelligible Singing for teaching and admonishing others cannot be without the use of the Organical Instruments of the Voice , yet the Essence or Being of Singing consists in an inward spiritual Exercise of the Soul or Mind of Man . And this must be granted : for we all do own that true Prayer may be made in our Hearts to God without the use of our Voice .

And then come and tell your Reader the Essence of Sin is in the Heart , and the Essenc● of other things Good and Evil , and take 〈◊〉 four Pages in this kind of nonsensical way 〈◊〉 speaking , confounding the proper Acts 〈◊〉 God's Worship , nay , destroy them utterly , by starting an uncouth term , as here apply'd , 〈◊〉 Essence ; nay , and I perceive this mighty Ma● of Straw you have made and set up , you 〈◊〉 at a strange manner ; 't is , as it were , the 〈◊〉 on which all the stress of the whole Superstructure of your new-found Contrivance to evade God's blessed Ordinance of Singing 〈◊〉 laid ; so that if this be razed , you must find another Singing in the New Testament besides this Essence of Singing , which you say is in the Heart ; and I perceive 't is only that inward joy of the Spirit that you mean by the Essence of Singing , and that to be all the Singing you would have the Saints to use in Gospel-days . And besure if you have missed the mark here , your Book has nothing in it of instruction . A Man cannot be so vain as to attempt to overthrow an Act of Divine Worship , as it hath been received and practised for many Ages amongst all the Godly generally ; but he must set up something in the room of it which he must call by that name , since God's Word bears positive witness to such a Church-Ordinance . A Gospel-Singing there is , as well as a Gospel-praying , preaching , &c. But rather than it shall be that which indeed it is , as owned by the Law , and the Prophets , Christ and his Apostles , and most wise , learned , and truly Godly Christians , it shall be something else contrived in the darkness of your Mind .

Thus the Quakers have cast off the Holy Ordinances of Baptism , and the Lord's Supper , and have gotten spiritual Ones ( in the blind Imaginations of their Hearts ) in their 〈◊〉 ; as you would have a Heart Singing of Psalms without the Voice , so they have got 〈◊〉 Heart-baptism without Water , and a Heart-breaking of Bread without Bread or Wine .

The Papists , or Church of Rome , also have , by the subtilty of Satan , and pride of their own Spirits , changed and corrupted these and other Ordinances of the Gospel another way , 〈◊〉 they have set up something in their stead , which they call by their Names ; for , first , they have that they call Baptism , but it is not Christ's Baptism , but Rantism , with many Ceremonies added to it . They have that they call the 〈◊〉 Supper , but 't is not Christ's Ordinance , but another thing , &c. Also let me tell you , in the fear of God , you have adventured to raze or take away Christ's Ordinance of Singing , and have invented something to put in its room , which you call a Gospel-singing : And I am afsaid you little think of the bitter Consequents of this Attempt of yours , and how you ●eem hereby to ridicule ( though not wittily , I ha●e better thoughts of you ) the whole of Gospel-Ordinances , by turning them into a thing you call Essence , a Heart-service only without the Bodily Organs , and rendering your self to be but little better in your so doing , than a mere Enthusiast ; and whilst you plead for Spiritual Worship , and cry down all Forms , you seem to overthrow all external Acts of Religion , by intimating , that because the Heart 〈◊〉 perform one Duty at some Seasons acceptably to God , viz. Prayer without the bodily Organs ; why may not the Spirit or Heart perform Singing too ? say you . And why not , say I , Preaching the Word , Baptism , and Breaking of Bread also ? The Quakers have not only got a Spiritual or Heart-Baptism , and a Spiritual or Heart-Breaking of Bread , but an assembling together for Heart-Preaching also : And what you say about the Essence of these Duties being in the Heart , ( and how 't is the Heart or Spirit only in Duty and Ordinances that God looks at ) and from hence seek to make void Singing with the Voice , it doth ( as all Men may see ) strike through the Loins of all External Acts of Divine Worship , as before shewed : For as I told you in the first Chapter , the Essence of Preaching , and every other External Duty , may as well be said to lie in the Spirit as this of Singing Psalms and Hymns , &c. Besides , since God is so much pleased , as you intimate , with the bare Internal Worship of the Heart , without the bodily Organs , and with Prayer particularly , why do you not excuse the Tongue from that Service likewise , and say , that External Expressions in Prayer , or praising God with the Tongue , is a low formal thing , and to be rejected ?

But I can't but smile at one of your first Expressions ; You say very right , ours is an intel●gible sort of Singing . But that which you ●lead for is such , that no Body can tell what to ●ake of ; besure 't is no Singing at all , as in the first Chapter I have proved ; I mean , that which you call the Essence or Being of Singing in the Heart , or inward Joy . Brother , I have shewed you , that Singing and Preaching , &c. are Ordinances of a different Nature to that of Prayer ; Prayer may be performed in the Heart without the Tongue ; but there is no proper Singing or Preaching without the Organs of the Tongue , and therefore all your whole Fabrick is overturned with one blast : for this Error of yours , is like that of the first Concoction ; If you have got no other proper singing of Psalms , than what we plead for and practise , nor no other can be found warranted in God's Word , Then 〈◊〉 must be the true and right Ordinance , and manner of performance of it , likewise . Let Men but destroy the practice of an Ordinance , as 't is by so many practised , and has been from the beginning , and as we conceive and believe in a right manner , unless they have another Form to present to our sight , that we may have time to compare them with God's Word , to see which may be nearest the Rule in our Judgments , they do nothing but perplex the World as well as us . You have presented us with one , I must confess , which only has that Name given to it by your self , but it is not the thing , i. e. it is no proper Singing at all .

You talk of the Essence of Sin in the Heart , as well as the Essence of Duties being in the Heart or Spirit . What do you mean ? can sin be no where but in the Heart , because it is there ? or can a thing be where its Being or Essence is not ? There may be much Evil in the Eyes ; we read of Eyes full of Adultery . Nay , and I must tell you , that the Essence or Being of Sin is in the Tongue likewise . Pray see what the Apostle James saith , In the Tongue 〈◊〉 a Fire , a World of Iniquity : so is the Tongue amongst our Members , that it defileth the whole Body , and setteth on fire the whole course of Nature , and is set on Fire of Hell , Jam. 3. 6. Certainly the Essence of Sin is in the Tongue , as well as in the Heart , or you are out in your term ; and the Essence of Singing , some will tell you , is wholly in the Tongue . And now since the Tongue doth thus dishonour God , ( by the way ) let me tell you , there is great reason it should not be idle , but be imployed to praise and sing to the Honour of God .

If by Essence of Sin , you mean the Rise , Spring , or Fountain of Sin , I say you speak Truth , and good sense too ; for it is out of the Heart that proceeds Fornication , &c. Yet some Sins may be said , to have their proper Essence or Being in the Life , as well as in the Heart , and may rise from a Temptation from without also .

We will grant you likewise that the Heart is the Fountain or Spring of most Actions , all our Duties must spring or flow from thence ; i. e. the Heart by God's Spirit , must stir us up to do them : 〈◊〉 does it follow from hence , that many of 〈◊〉 Duties can be performed by the Heart or ●pirit without the Tongue ? Sure you will say , 〈◊〉 Man can preach , though the Matter be 〈◊〉 his Mind or Head , &c. No more , say 〈◊〉 can they in a proper sense be said to sing Psalms , &c. Only one word more , and I 〈◊〉 done with this . In pag. 9. you speak of 〈◊〉 Fields rejoicing and singing . We have ●ewed you , that there is an improper or metaphorical Singing mentioned in the Scripture , 〈◊〉 so that Scripture and some other places are to be taken , and know that your singing is no 〈◊〉 a proper Singing , than Abel's Blood , which is said to speak , was a proper Speaking , as I said in the first Chapter be fore .

II. Of David's Psalms .

1. You say , There was no Institution of Singing before David's Time .

Answ. We have proved Singing the Praises of God is a part of natural Religion , and so a moral Duty in its own Nature , as Prayer is ; and that the Heathen sang the Praises of God for his goodness in Creation , that ha●e no written Word : And what is this then to the purpose , if we should grant that Singing was not brought under an Institution till David's Time ?

As touching what you say about the Israelites in the Wilderness , how in trouble they did not sing , 't is more than you know , for I think you will find they were not far from the Wilderness when Moses and the Congregation sang ▪ Exod. 15. However our Lord Jesus and his Disciples sang when it was a sad Wilderness●time with them , it was just the Night before our Blessed Saviour was betrayed . And Paul and Silas sung in the Wilderness of a Prison ; and though the Saints are always sorrowful , yet they are required ever-more to rejoice . All outward Comforts of this World , are not 〈◊〉 thousand part such cause of Joy and Singing , as our spiritual Deliverance and Salvation by Christ is . Do you think that outward Blessings here will better tend to tune our Spirits and Tongues to sing the Praises of God , than the Love of God in Jesus Christ , Pardon of Sin , Justification , Union , Communion , Adoption ? &c. No , no , here is the Spring of Joy , and cause of true spiritual Singing , and none can learn David's Psalms , nor any other Scripture-Hymns or Songs thus to sing them , but the 144000 ; none but such who have that new Name , that new Nature , can learn this Song as thus to sing it , Rev. 14. 3. And let me tell you , this Singing of the hundred and forty four thousand spoken of , was under the Reign of Antichrist , for the seven Angels with their seven Vials came out of the Temple afterwards , who destroy Babylon .

Take what our late Annotators speak on the place . The New Song here spoken of , is probably the same with that we met with before , chap. 5. 11. sang by the Voice of many Angels round about the Throne , and the Beasts , and the Elders ; called a new Song , either for the excellency of it , or because sung unto God after Christ was manifested in the Flesh . The design of it was , to declare the worthiness of Christ , to receive Power , and Riches , and Wisdom , and Strength , and Honour , and Blessing . A new Song , signifies a Song which praises God for new benefits received from him . During the Reign of Antichrist , none could learn this Song , to give Power , Riches , Wisdom , Strength , Honour , Glory , and Blessing , but a small number redeemed through the Blood of Christ . Annot. on Rev. 14. 3. * * This shews other Spiritual Songs may be sung besides David's Psalms in Gospel-days ; this was none of those .

Secondly , You say , The singing of David's Psalms , were suitable to all the rest of the Levitical Ceremonies , and Temple-Worship , pag. 12 , 13.

Answ. There is no doubt but the Singing of David's Psalms with Instruments of Musick , was suited to the order of the Levites and to the Temple-worship . What then , must not we sing Psalms in the Gospel-days , with Grace in our Hearts to the Lord ? We know no Psalms , but David's Psalms , or those called the Book of Psalms ; and the holy Ghost doth injoin the Gospel-Churches to sing Psalms , as well as Hymns , and spiritual Songs . Will you take upon you to countermand God's holy Precept ? Will you say Very Tightly Bound we must not sing Psalms , when the Churche● are exhorted so to do ? Pray , when you writ● again , tell us what Psalms they are the Holy Ghost there speaks of , if not them , or some o● them called the Psalms of David .

True , all Types , Shadows , and Ceremonies ▪ are removed and done away ; but Singing th● Praise of God was no Ceremony , but a Mora● Duty , and performed by the Children of Israel , before the Law of Shadows and Ceremonies was given forth , Exod. 15. 1 , 2. You may 〈◊〉 well say Prayer was a Ceremony , because the●● were divers ceremonial Rites used in the performance of it , particularly that of Incense .

2. Did not Christ sing an Hymn after th● Supper ? Would he have left that as a Patte●● to us , and annexed it to such a pure Gospel-Ordinance , had it been a Ceremony , and only belonging to the Jewish Worship ? Or , would the Apostle Paul have given , by the Authority of the Holy Ghost , such a Precept to th● Church of Coloss to sing Psalms , &c. whom 〈◊〉 strives so much to take off from Jewish Rites● Days , and Ceremonies ? Had singing of Psalms● Hymns , and spiritual Songs been a Jewish Ceremony , he would not have done thus . This is sufficient to convince any sober and unbia●●e● Person , i. e. that Singing the Praises of God i● a Gospel-Duty ; and that it did not belong only to the Jews , in the Days of the Old Testament . But you contradict this your self ; fo● afterwards you grant that the Saints , when the extraordinary Gifts are given , as you suppose they will in the thousand Years Reign , you intimate then they shall sing as we do ; or else I know not what you mean .

How shall they use a legal and Typical Rite , that only appertained to the Jews and Levites , in that glorious state of the Church ? Doubtless their Singing of Old , with musical Instruments , was a Figure of that sweet spiritual Melody the Saints should make from a well-tuned gracious Heart , and with united and melodious Tongues together in the Gospel-days , as I have again and again shewed ; and this therefore is not mixing Law and Gospel together , but continuing a Gospel-Ordinance in the Church that is of Gospel-Authority , both from Precepts and Examples , as I have proved in this Treatise : so that I have answered your second , and third , and part of your fourth Thesis together .

Thirdly , ( you say ) The matter of David's Psalms and other holy Men , were suited to particular Occasions , and Experiences , and Accidents of that day , as may be seen by divers of their Titles . Some Prophecies of the Sufferings of Christ , &c. And some Places hard to be understood , so improper to be sung by all the Church , who can't sing them with Vnderstanding , as well as justifying the singing Prayers as well as Praises . Pag. 14.

Answ. Most of the Book of Psalms contains proper Instructions for most Occasions the People of God can find : What was written afore Time the Apostle says was written for our Learning . All Scripture is given by inspiration of God , and is profitable for Doctrine , for Reproof , for Correction , and for Instruction in Righteousness , 2 Tim. 3. 16. If all Scripture , then the Book of the Psalms , and for instruction by Singing them too , because so required by the Holy Spirit , Eph. 5. 19. Coloss. 3. 16. May you not as well say they are of no use to us ? The Book of Psalms good Men look upon as the Heart of our Sacred Bible , and as fruitful a Book for Saints in Gospel-times as any Book in the Old Testament ; but if there be any Psalms that can't so well be sung as some others , God's People are at their liberty whether they will sing them or no : however , unless you can tell us there are others called Psalms , besides these , you say nothing , for we are required to sing Psalms . And as to those things contained in David's Psalms that are hard to be understood , they may be opened to the People before they are sung .

As touching singing Prayers , I have spoken to this already . Though we are against humane Forms of Prayer , yet the Singing of David's Psalms ( wherein there are some Prayers ) are of Divine Institution ; and therefore 't is lawful to sing Psalms and Hymns that have some Expressions Prayer-wife in them . Our Brethren say , praising of God in Prayer , is Singing ; and indeed , if they did not thus conclude , I am perswaded they could not satisfy their Consciences to lie wholly short of this Duty ; and therefore in their sense , singing of some part of Prayer is lawful , or else Singing is something they do not as yet own , nor can tell us what it is .

As to what you say in the fifth place , p. 14.

Object . That David's Psalms were limited to the Levites .

Answ. 'T is nothing to your purpose , 't is rather an Argument for singing Psalms by the whole Church ; for the whole Church is that spiritual Priesthood , to offer up spiritual Sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ ▪ 1 Pet. 2. 5. That as the Priesthood , or Levi●●s , sung together under the Law , with Instruments of Musick , it might typify out how the whole Church should sing spiritually with Grace in their Hearts to the Lord together under the Gospel .

You say in the next place , pag. 15.

Object . There is no Institution to sing David's Psalms , and that Christ nor his Apostles ever 〈◊〉 practised . And also if the Apostles had occasion to translate any Text out of the Hebrew 〈◊〉 the Greek , they did never turn them into Metre .

Answ. There is an Institution to sing David ' s Psalms ; Ephes. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16. If there be 〈◊〉 ●ther Psalms mentioned in the Scripture , besides David's Psalms , or the Book of Psalms , and the Churches are required to sing Psalms as well 〈◊〉 Hymns ; Then there is a Gospel-Institution for singing of David's Psalms . But there are no other Psalms mentioned in the Scripture besid●● David's Psalms , or the Book of Psalms , and the Churches are required to sing Psalms as well as Hymns . Ergo. The singing of David's Psalms , or Psalms contained in the Book of Psalms , is a Gospel-Institution .

That the Churches are required to sing Psalms , we have shewed again and again , Eph. 5. 19. If there be any other Psalms besides what are contained in the Book of Psalms , which are so called , you must shew which they be , and then we will use those which we shall have the clearest ground to judg the Spirit of God may intend .

As to their translating any of them into Metre , out of Hebrew into Greek , it is remote to the Business ; we know not they did translate any Scripture at all out of Hebrew into Greek .

III. Of prescribed and precomposed Songs and Hymns .

First , ( say you ) If the Essence of Singing , as before is shewed , consisteth in an inward spiritual Exercise of the Soul or Mind of Man ; and that both the Matter and the Melody of it , proceedeth from the inward Graces and Operations of the Holy Spirit with the Word ; then surely no humane prescribed Form of Singing can be accepted of God , but that which proceedeth from the Word of God , by the Dictates and Teachings of the Holy Spirit . You mention Ephes. 5. 18 , 19. Col. 3. 16. Pag. 15.

Again , pag. 16. Now the Essence of Singing consisteth of these two parts , viz. Matter [ from the Word ] , and Melody [ by the Spirit ] : So that neither the Word nor the Spirit can be wanting ; and therefore whatsoever Forms are used which proceed not from within us , out of a Fulness and Enriching of the Word and Spirit , cannot be Spiritual Singings .

Answ. Brother , who do you encounter with now ? 'T is evident this doth not concern as , you need not have taken so much time and pains to prove that which no Body that I know denies .

But before I come to reply to that , I cannot but take notice how you hug your former Notion of Essence of Singing ; but I perceive your have found out the Essence of Singing , is not in the Spirit alone , but it has Matter and Form too : the Matter ( you say ) is God's Word ; there you are right : you say , The Melody lies in the Heart , that is partly true , but there must be something else added to the Essence of Singing , or else you have it not ; and that is the chief thing , the only thing from whence it 's called Singing , that is , a melodious Voice , add that , and then you plead for Singing ; take that away , and 't is no more than inward Joy , or Rejoicing . Singing , Mr. Caryl tells you , is an Act of the Voice : 'T is a melodious Noise , do not mistake your self in one of the most plain and easiest Acts of the B●dily Organ , or Act of the Tongue . But to the Business , no Hymn must be made nor composed from God's Word , it appears , without the help and assistance of the holy Spirit . I am of your Mind .

But I hope you do not mean the miraculous or extraordinary Help or Operations of the Spirit , because you are a speaking of the Administrations of the Gospel , and Gospel-Worship in general .

Now there are two things to be ●●●●●dered in bringing forth a Doctrine , viz. That 't is agreeable to the Word of God ; he that compiles a Sermon must be sure to see 't is God's Word , i. e. congruous thereunto , and provable therefrom , or else 't is humane .

2. He must bring forth and preach it by the help and assistance of the Spirit also , or else it may still be Human , no Divine Sermon .

So , and in like manner in compiling of an Hymn , it must be as to the matter , the Word of Christ ; Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly , in all Wisdom , teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms , Hymns , and spiritual Songs , singing , &c. Col. 3. 19. See here the Direction for the matter of an Hymn or spiritual Song , it must be in general the Word of Christ ; ( as it must be the Word of Christ that is to be preached . ) Even so also a● Hymn , &c. must be ( we say ) compiled out of the Word of Christ , and in singing of it there must be the assistance of the holy Spirit . But now will you say we have not the Spirit of Christ in composing the Hymn which is part of Christ's Word ? Take heed ! you are too full of hard Words and Censures ; another may , nay , and some do say so too , we have no Rule to compose a Sermon ; and I will say and testify , I know no more Rule for a precomposed Sermon to be preached , than for a precomposed Hymn that is to be sung , and I am satisfied I have equally in them both the like assistance of the Spirit . Your speaking here of the Spiritualness of the Gospel above the Law , doth nothing in your case . We grant it , and say , Our Singing differs now under the Gospel as to the Spirituality of it to that under the Law , as much as my other Gospel-Service or Worship doth .

Our Sermons are no more made for us in God's Word than our Hymns are , and we have equal Direction in both these weighty ●●ses ; and I must tell you , this way of 〈◊〉 you use is enough , if People did observe it , to overthrow all visible Worship and Ordinances , unless we could make it appear , 〈◊〉 we had the immediate and extraordinary help of the Spirit in the discharge of them . Away , ●●ith one , with your carnal and human preaching , 't is a Form invented and done by Art , will you call this Gospel-preaching ? The Apostles 〈◊〉 as they were moved by a mighty Spirit within them ; you must preach by immediate inspiration and not precomposed Sermons , or else your Sermons are formal . Thus you open a Door for Quakerism , and throw St●●bling-blocks before the weak : I intreat you to consider of it .

2. Doubtless what the Apostles did by an extraordinary Spirit in bringing in a Doctrine and an Interpretation , &c. is a Rule for us in the ordinary Gifts ; for they preached and prayed , &c. by the wonderful or extraordinary Influences of the Spirit : and because we have not those Gifts , must we not be found in this Ordinance , viz. to sing , which is required in the New Testament ; we by the same Argument , must lay all others aside likewise , as the None-Churches have done : from such a way of arguing as you use here , the Lord deliver us . But what you speak on this occasion doth not concern them that sing David's Psalms ; therefore if composed Hymns were not justified by God's Word as comprehended in Hymns and spiritual Songs , Col. ● . 16. then the Book of Psalms , as our Brethren say , are wholly intended , and then they must be sung , and them only ; but we see no reason so to believe . Eusebiw speaks of the Christians singing of Hymns to Christ as to God , in the first Century , which shews it was the Practice of the Church in the Primitive Times to sing other Hymns besides those in the Book of Psalms .

As to Forms of Prayer , the Lord hath left us a Form , by which we are directed how to pray ; and so he has left us his Word , and the Psalms of David , that we may know how to compile our Hymns as well as our Sermons , by the help and assistance of his Spirit : there is no more a Form of Preaching left , than there is a Form of Hymns : and what tho Christians differ in their singing , they also differ in their method or form of Preaching as much ; and your Argument ( say you what you will ) 〈◊〉 alike against the one as against the other . But is it unlawful to premeditate what we design to ask of God in Prayer ? Have not some in Prayer , and Fasting-days in Churches , drawn 〈◊〉 several things as a Form of those Cases 〈◊〉 they agreed together to spread before the Lord , and is this Form sinful think you ? But 〈◊〉 of this hereafter .

IV. Of Womens Singing .

Object . You say , Women ought not to sing in the Church , because not suffered to speak in the Church , and also because singing is teaching .

By the way then it appears , the bare Melody in the Heart , where you say is the Essence of Singing , that is not Singing , by your own Assertion . Thus you destroy what you would build .

Answ. But if Women may not speak nor ●●ach in no sense in the Church , they must not be admitted to give an account of their Conversion in the Church , or how God was pleased to work upon their Souls : for that Practice is full of Teaching and Instruction , and has been blessed to the Conversion of some other Persons that have been by .

But I will be at the pains to transcribe what worthy Mr. Cotton hath said to this Objection , it appears others have brought it before you .

The second scruple about Singers is , saith he , whether Women may sing as well as Men ? for in this Point there be some deal with us , as Pharaoh dealt with the Isr●●lites● who , tho he was at first utterly unwilling that any of them should go to sacrifice 〈◊〉 the Lord in the Wilderness , yet being 〈◊〉 length convinced that they must go , then 〈◊〉 was content the Men should go , but not 〈◊〉 Women , Exod. 10. 11. So here , some that were altogether against singing of Psalm●● at all with lively Voices , yet being convinced that it is a Moral Worship of God , warranted in Scripture , then if there must be a singing , one alone must sing , not all , 〈◊〉 ( if all ) the Men only and not the Women . He then mentions your Objection , to which he replies .

1. One Answer , saith he , may at once remove both Scruples , and withal clear the Truth ; it is apparent by the Scope and Context of both these Scriptures , that a Woman is not permitted to speak in the Church .

( 1. ) By way of teaching , whether in expounding or applying Scripture ; for this the Apostle accounteth an Act of Authority , which is unlawful for a Woman to usurp over the Man , 1 Tim. 2. 13. And besides , the Woman is more subject to Error than the Man , ver. 14. and therefore might sooner prove a Seducer , if she became a Teacher .

( 2. ) Yet nevertheless in two cases it is clear a Woman may speak in the Church . ● . In way of Subjection , when she is to give account of her Offence ; thus Peter questioned Sapphira before the Church , touching the price of Land sold by her and her Husband , &c. and she accordingly spake in the Church , to give her Answer to the Question , Acts 5. 8. 2. In way of singing forth the Praises of God together with the rest of the Congregation , for 't is evident the Apostle layeth no greater restraint upon Women for silence in the Church , than the Law put upon them before , for so himself speaketh in the place alledged , 1 Cor. 14. 34. it is not permited to a Woman to speak , but to be under Subjection , 〈◊〉 also saith the Law .

2. The Apostle then requireth the same Subjection in the Woman which the Law put upon them . Now it is certain , the Law , yea , the Law-giver Moses , did permit Miriam , and the Women in the Song of Thansgiving , to sing the Praises of God : Sing ye to the Lord , for he hath triumphed gloriously the Horse and his Rider hath he thrown into the Sea , which may be a ground sufficient to justify the lawfulness of Womens singing together with the Men the Praises of the Lord ; and accordingly in the Primitive Churches it was the ancient Practice of Women to sing the publick Praises of the Lord , we read recorded in the Ecclesiastical History , Socrates Chap. 18 Greek Copy , and Chap. 16. of the Latin , Theodoret's third Book , Chap. 17.

Obj. But ( say you ) there is no Institution for Womens Singing .

Answ. No need ; 't is a Moral Duty . You may ask whether they are to praise God as well , and demand a word of Institution for their Breaking of Bread with the Church ? for you know some demand a Proof for that .

V. Of the Order of Singing .

What need you talk of Order about Singing , or of Womens Singing , when the Essence of it being in the Heart , is sufficient , though the Act or Thing it self be never done .

But to proceed ;

This you say we have plainly and clearly delivered to us , 1 Cor. 14. 20 , to 34. How is it then , Brethren ? when ye come together , every one of you hath a Psalm , hath a Doctrine , hath a Tongue , hath an Interpretation ; let all things be done to edifying .

That which you infer from hence is , that this is the Rule for our Practice , viz. one by one , or one after another , must speak and exercise their Gifts , and not all together ; and so he that has the Gift of a Psalm , he is singly , or alone , by himself to sing as in Prayer and Preaching .

Answ. The Apostle directs that Church in the exercise of extraordinary Gifts . There was , 't is clear , confusion about the exercises of those Gifts in the Church of Corinth ; it seems this was their practice some times , viz. Every one of them who had a Doctrine , and that had a Psalm , and so of the rest , would come forth with them together . May be many Preach together who had Doctrines , and at the same time ▪ every one that had a Psalm , they would come forth with their Psalm and Sing● and so those who had the Gift of Tongues , and a Gift to interpret , might do the like , which the Apostle shews them was Confusion ; and if they did thus , and Unbelievers come into their Assemblies at such time , would not they say they were mad ?

Now , 1. to open this place of Scripture , it will be necessary to consider what disorderly practice it was Paul reproves them of ; and no doubt it was the Confusion before mentioned , two , three , or more , bringing forth their Doctrine together ; and others , who had other differing Gifts coming forth together with them too , ( 't is very like at the same time ) .

2. The Rule to regulate these Disorders . And now let this once and for ever be noted , and well heeded , viz. That the ordinary way of the Administration of all Gifts , and performance of all Ordinances in the Churches , must be the Rule for the extraordinary Gifts , and performance of Ordinances .

3. Then in the third place , we must consider the manner of the performance of Ordinances , and exercise of Gifts , according to the Nature of the Gifts and Ordinances .

And now as to the Gift of Teaching , Interpreting , Prophesying , &c. only one was to be the Mouth ; Let the Prophets speak one by one , and let the other judg : if any thing be revealed to him that sitteth by , let the first hold his peace . To act contrary to this Rule , is Confusion ; and so of some other Gifts and Ordinances , whole Nature were in themselves the same , so they were to be done . And now as to Singing , that being always performed with Voices together , both in the Old Testament , and by Christ and his Disciples , and by Paul and Silas , and so enjoined on the Churches ; they who had a Psalm , that is , as I conclude , a Psalm of David , to bring forth by an extraordinary Spirit , which might not be the Matter of the Psalm , but the Manner of bringing it forth in an unknown Tongue , and it may be in a Tune too that others might not understand , and so upon both respects others could not sing with him , nor the Church be edified ; he was not so to bring forth his Psalm , unless there was an Interpreter who might give it forth to the People , that they might sing together , as always that Ordinance was practised in the Publick Congregation . And this appears to be the sense of the place by Paul's own words ; When I pray , I will pray with the Spirit , and with the Vnderstanding ; that is , in a known Tongue , to my own Understanding , and to the Understanding of others . And when I sing , I will sing with the Spirit , and I will sing with the Vnderstanding also : that is , If I sing in the Church , I will not sing in an unknown Tongue , so that others cannot understand what I sing , and so cannot sing with me . He doth not mean , doubtless , his own Understanding only , but the Understanding of others also ; so that , according to the Nature of the Ordinance , all might be edified , and all might be comforted .

Now this being so , as I am well satisfied 't is the meaning of the Spirit , what an endless stir is here of one Man's singing alone in the exercise of an extraordinary Gift , which cannot be proved by the Wit of Man from the Text ? much less had it been so , would it have been a Rule to the Churches in ordinary Administrations of Christ's Ordinances . Though for several to preach together , that would be Confusion ; yet to sing together would be none , but the greater and the more sweet Melody , as Mr. Sid●ultan ●●ws . Nor would the Unbeliever , to hear a Congregation sing together , say , Are they not mad ? because this sort of Singing was always practised , both among the Jews , and also among the Gentile Nations . And so much to this Text.

And whereas you say , If any one had such a Gift , and came forth to sing alone in the Church , ( as you fancy some did in that Church ) you should bless God for so great a Presence of his Spirit among his People , pag. 23. I assure you , I should charge him with introducing a Practice no where warranted in the Scripture , and so no sign of God's Presence at all , but a meer Innovation in God's Worship , being without Precept or Example .

VI. Objections Answered .

I am now come to your last Thesis , wherein you pretend to answer some of our Arguments and Scriptures for Singing Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs . And if I meet with any thing pertinent , I shall reply to it , or else pass it by as not worthy of an Answer . And such is the first you bring , as alledged by us from 〈◊〉 . 15. And the second is like to it , about 〈◊〉 and Barak , as if they together did not , could no : sing that Song , when the Holy Ghost positively says they did . The Holy Ghost saith , that Moses and the Congregation of Israel sung , and you would fain make us believe , it was some extraordinary Extasy : 〈◊〉 we from thence must have Dancing too , which I have already fully answered .

Your third Reply , That the Singing that was in the Temple was extraordinary , and so in the Apostles Time .

Answ. We deny the latter , Singing was no more performed in the Gospel-time , by an extraordinary Spirit and Manner , than Prayer , Preaching , and all other Ordinances ; and by the Argument we have not those extraordinary 〈◊〉 now to perform one Duty , so not another .

And if we must throw one Ordinance away from thence , we must ( as the Non-Churches say ) lay them all aside , and practise none at all , till we are endowed with Power from on High , as the Apostles were , viz. to Preach , Prophesy , and sing Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , by Inspiration , or by the extraordinary Gifts of the Holy Ghost .

For as Singing , ( it being a moral Duty as well as Prayer , so it was in the Church of the Jews before the Glory of their Temple-Worship ) : so Prayer and Preaching , being ordinary Duties , and parts of Natural Religion ( as well as brought under Divine Institution for the more orderly and spiritual performance of them ) , yet in the glorious Time of the Gospel were all done by an extraordinary Spirit , or by Miraculous Gifts ; 't is evident , therefore , extraordinary Gifts in the Gospel-day , were not only suited ( as you imagine ) to tune their Hearts and Tongues to sing the Praises of God only , but also to Pray , Preach , Prophesy , and so to perform the whole of Gospel-Ordinances and Worship , which was to confirm each Ordinance in particular , and the whole of the Christian Religion in general , Mark 16 , 17 , 18 , 19. Heb. 2. 3 , 4. And therefore we have no more reason to lay aside or neglect Singing the Praises of God , till those extraordinary Gifts shall return , ( which we have no ground to expect ever will ) than we have to lay aside Prayer , Preaching , Baptism , the Lord's Supper , and every other Duty and Ordinance , since Singing of Psalms , &c. is injoined on the Churches as well as other Ordinances are .

What you say in the 27th Page , about the Winter of Afflictions , when that is past , and the time of the Singing of Birds is come , at the appearance of Christ's Kingdom , which will fully perfect the Glory of Temple-worship .

You mistake that Text in Cant. 2. for all Expositors generally agree , that that Place resers to two things ; first , to the coming of Christ in the Flesh , the time of the Jewish-Church-state , or the dark and cloudy days before Christ came , is set forth by Winter ; 't is known the Afflictions and Miseries of God's People , before Christ came , was great , but then the glorious Sun arose , or the Day-spring 〈◊〉 on high visited the Earth , ( Luk. 1. 79. ) and the longed-for Spring came in , and then the 〈◊〉 of the Turtle was heard in that and other Lands ; and the Birds of Heaven and Earth began to sing , I mean , both the Angels , and Saints also , with Grace in their Hearts , in a most spiritual and heavenly manner , to the Lord .

Secondly , By Winter may be meant , as they shew , that time while a Soul abides in its natural estate , and when regenerated by the Grace of God , then Winter is past , and then the time for that Soul to sing is come ; and such also then hear the Voice of Christ , that blessed Turtle , sweetly by his Spirit , speaking peace to their Souls .

But if , in the third place , it should also allude to the Churches final Deliverance from all outward Afflictions in the latter Days , and so they have an extraordinary Cause to praise God , and sing his Praises forth in those Times for temporal Salvation ; doth it follow from thence we must not sing forth his Praises till then ? 't is a horrible mistake , to think Saints are more to be concerned to ●ing to the Lord for outward Blessings , and worldly Peace and Prosperity on Earth , than for their spiritual Blessings , and Priviledges through Christ , for the redemption of their Souls from Sin and eternal Wrath ; no : For these Mercies we have infinitely more cause to sing , than for all those great things you hint at ; besides , that Song will be rather the Song of Moses , than the Song of the Lamb ; the one was for temporal Deliverance and Salvation , the other is for spiritual and eternal Mercies . True , when that time comes when we shall sing both those Songs together , then the Melody may be the sweeter ; but though there are extraordinary times of Prayer and Praises , yet that ought not to hinder the Saints from praying and singing at other times .

Your Reply in the fourth place , to that in Isa. 52. 8 , 9. viz. Thy Watchmen shall lift up the Voice , with the Voice together shall they sing , is nothing to the purpose at all : What though the word will bear their making a noise , o● shouting , yet 't is a joyful Noise , or a Noise of Singing , and a Singing with their Voice together as a found of the great Jubilee .

And now , though you would have this place to refer to the thousand Years Reign , yet the Apostle applies it positively to the time of the Gospel , see Rom. 10. 15. Come , the Day of Gospel-Grace , Gospel-Light , Gospel-Glory and Priviledges , is like the great Jubilee , when desolate Souls , who like waste places come to be renewed , and the Church rebuilt , and Ordinances restored , this is the time to sing , this is the chief cause of Joy and Gladness . Many Men ignorantly apply Prophecies to the thousand Years Reign , that refer to the time of the Gospel which began in the Apostles days : besides , there is a Doubt in the Hearts of many Men about that thousand Years ; 't is a Mystery not yet understood clearly .

No doubt , the Antitype of Solomon's Temple ( say you what you please ) was the Gospel-Church in the days of the Apostles , and so downward , and not the thousand Years Reign : for the Glory of the second Temple , was a Type of the Glory of the Church in the latter days of the World , as the best of our Expositors have excellently opened it to be so : therefore , what you speak , pag. 28. makes against your self ; for if the Institution of Singing which was in the Levitical Temple-worship , was compleated as to the Antitype in the Apostles Days , as touching the beginning of it , and not as you imagine ; and there is no doubt but 't is so , for when the Antitype was come , then the Shadow of Aaron's Order , and musical Instruments , fled away , and then nothing was left but Singing with Heart and Voice , by the Spirit , to the Lord .

Your fift Reply is , to that of Christ and his Disciples singing of an Hymn after the Supper , pag. 29. which ( you say ) might be no more than giving of Thanks , or saying Grace .

Answ. We have answered this Objection fully already ; but by the way , had it been no more than his giving of Thanks , why doth the Hloly Ghost express it in the plural Number ? 't is said , He took Bread , and blessed it ; and he 〈◊〉 the Cup , and gave Thanks , ( so some Translations render it ) ; but now at the close 't is said , they sung an Hymn .

Besides , multitudes of Learned Men do tell you , that from the Greek word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , they hymned ; it is truly and rightly translated into English , they sung an Hymn .

Dr. Du Veil , who was as Learned a Man as most this present Age hath in it , saith , in his literal Explanation of the Acts of the Apostles , Chap. 16. ver. 25. pag. 67. thus ; Hymns are Songs , which contain the Praise of God . If it be Praise , and not of God , it is not an Hymn ; if it be Praise , and of God , if it be not sung , it is not an Hymn : it must therefore , that it may be an Hymn , have these three things , viz. 1. Praise ; 2. And of God ; 3. And a Song . Now this being an Hymn our Saviour and his Disciples used in praising of God , the Doctor affirms , they sung ; and so did Paul and Silas . But this is the old way of such who ever opposed a Truth , when pinch'd , presently fly out upon the Translators , 't is so to be read in the Greek , &c. whereas all the World knows , that as our Translators were able Scholars , so they were very holy and upright Men : Besides , our Annotators , and all Expositors , generally say 't is truly rendred ; and 't is a bad thing unjustly to find fault with the Translators of the Holy Bible .

To perswade your Reader , if you could , that the Disciples did not sing with our Saviour , ( or they did not sing together ) you bring , that Passage of Hannah's mental praying , or speaking in her Heart , 1 Sam. 1. 11 , 13. How impertinent this is , I may leave to all . You suppose still , because there is a Mental or Heart-praying , there is a Mental or Heart-singing also : you may , after the same manner say , there is a Mental or Heart-preaching likewise . There is no proper Singing , I tell you again , without the Voice .

But you think you have done it at last , from Acts 4. 24. Where it is said , The Disciples lifted up their Voice with one accord to God ; and yet did , as you conclude , do no more than pray as we do , that is , only one was the Mouth .

Answ. 1. Some say they lifted up their Voice by an extraordinary manner , by a miraculous Spirit that was upon them , and all uttered the same thing together Prayer-wise .

2. Others say , they lifted up their Voice together in Singing : And I find one great Author calling this the Apostles Song . 'T is evident , the Matter they uttered , is part of the Second Psalm .

3. Our Annotators intimate , as if all their Voices were joined together , in saying Amen . Now there can be nothing concluded or inferred on any certainty for your purpose from hence : If I should say , that as they prayed , for so they did the Text says ; yet when 't is said they lifted up their Voice to God with one accord , they sung the Second Psalm , it may be as probably so as any thing else . However , I have made it appear plain , that it may be said , there is a Praying together , ( though but one is the Mouth ) but there is no Singing together , 〈◊〉 but one sings , and the rest are silent , and sing not .

In your sixth place , you reply to that in Acts 16. 25. about Paul and Silas singing Praifes , you say just nothing , pag. 32.

For though Hymnos is nto praise ; yet , say the Learned , 't is such a Praising as is by Singing . Here I perceive you would quarrel again with the Translators : 't is plain , you are not willing to have any Singing to be in your Bible . If there is no Singing , you should not have told us so much about the Essence of it : don't abuse the Text , 't is not said , they prayed and praised God ; but , 't is said , they prayed , and sung Praises unto God . Though all Singing to God , is a praising of him , yet all Praising is not a Singing his Praises .

Your seventh Reply , is from that in Ephes. 5. 19. Your chief Business here is , to shew how Psalms , Hymos , and Spiritual Songs are rendered .

Pray , Brother , let you and I leave those nice Distinctions to better Scholars than you or I pretend to be . Some do say , they refer wholly to the Titles of the Book of Psalms ; others 〈◊〉 the Psalms of David , and to all Sacred Hymns and Songs .

Besides these , 1. Here is Singing enjoined , that 's evident .

2. Here is the Word of Christ prescribed , as the Matter in general to be sung .

3. Here are Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs as the Form ; and this cannot be denied , without palpable Violence offered to the Spirit .

But you would not have Old-Testament Names given to New-Testament Things , in Singing , but give no reason for it ; Prayer was called Prayer in the Old Testament , and Praises called Praises , and Laws called Ordinances ; and so they are called in the New : And why not Singing calling Singing , and Psalms of David called Psalms , and Hymns called Hymns in the New Testament , as well as in the Old ? These Cavils argue you want Matter to object against Christ's Ordinance of Singing , as you fain would do . You intimate , as if the Holy Ghost had injoined Singing of such Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs , that no Body knows what they be ; but you think they may be known hereafter ; as if we had an imperfect Gospel , and can't understand the Duties of it , till some extraordinary effusion of the Spirit comes upon us . So it may be objected in other Cases , as the Quakers do about Baptism and the Lord's Supper , who cry down our Ordinances , as none of those the Holy Ghost gave forth , nor our Preaching neither , but they are all spiritual Things , and must be done by a Spirit of Inspiration , pag. 34 , 35. Nothing can be more 〈◊〉 , nor destructive to the Christian Religi●● , than such arguing as you use .

Your eighth Reply , is to our proof of Sing●● being a Moral Duty ; and the substance of 〈◊〉 you say to this , is , 1. That the Wicked 〈◊〉 perform Moral Duties acceptably to God , 〈◊〉 plowing of the Wicked being Sin ; and wince 〈◊〉 Minds are Carnal , they cannot perform 〈◊〉 which is Spiritual : And in regard they 〈◊〉 not their Sins , nor need of a Christ , they 〈◊〉 no cause to sing : Or to this effect I find 〈◊〉 speaking , pag. 37.

Answ. Doth it follow , because they cannot 〈◊〉 , nor praise God as they ought , they ought 〈◊〉 to pray nor praise God at all ? God deli●● them from such Doctrine . And because 〈◊〉 cannot bless God , nor sing to him for the work of Grace on their own Hearts , or for 〈◊〉 Spiritual Mercies which they have not yet 〈◊〉 , ought they not to sing his Praises for 〈◊〉 Works of God in Creation , Provision , Pre●●vation , and all outward Blessings they have 〈◊〉 from him as their Creator and Bene●●ctor ? Nay , may they not sing his Praises for 〈◊〉 , and the Gospel , and for the Means of 〈◊〉 Conversion ? And why then did David 〈◊〉 upon all Men on Earth to sing and praise God ?

I find you are so lift up here , as to cry out against Forms that God hath ordained to be used , 〈◊〉 there are many Forms of things that are 〈◊〉 , and of Divine Institution . All Spiritual Ordinances have Matter and Form ; 〈◊〉 is no Prayer , ( nor Sermon neither ) tho ne'r 〈◊〉 Spiritual , but it has its Form . We read of 〈◊〉 Form of Doctrine , Form of sound Words : Baptism , and Breaking of Bread , have their For●● And if Men must attend ( as helps ) upon 〈◊〉 Forms of Religion , they must do nothing 〈◊〉 mind wholly that which you call the Essence 〈◊〉 things within their Spirits . But what is here 〈◊〉 gainsay what we say , that this is a Moral Duty Moral Duties are perpetually obliging , 〈◊〉 must be done as well as Men are able to 〈◊〉 them .

Must not all Men worship and adore the blessed God , and discharge their Duties according to the Light and Law of God in their Consciences , as far as they may be helped ? Why 〈◊〉 they suffered to hear the Gospel preached ? they cannot hear it ( you may say ) aright , who hav● not Faith , therefore must not hear at all .

Your ninth Reply is , to that about the continual Cause Christians have to praise God , ●ay to celebrate his Praises in the highest manne● they are able ; and therefore ( as we say ) to sing his Praises in his Publick Worship : This in general you grant .

Yet you say it doth not follow from thence we should so sing his Praises .

1. Because in this Life our Joys and Consolations are mix'd with Sorrow and Affliction , &c. We are in our Sackcloth State , &c.

Answ. I have answered this twice already 〈◊〉 What though we have Sorrow and Afflictions , 〈◊〉 God lose his Praises therefore ? As sorrow●● , ( saith Paul ) yet always rejoicing : Nay , 〈◊〉 have cause to 〈◊〉 ●nd praise God for Af●●ctions , and for his Presence and Help in and 〈◊〉 them .

Did not Christ and his Disciples sing , just 〈◊〉 the most dismal Time of Sorrow and 〈◊〉 ? and Paul and Silas sung when in 〈◊〉 , and their Feet were in the Stocks ? And 〈◊〉 not the hundred and forty four thousand 〈◊〉 a new Song under Antichrist's Reign ? For 〈◊〉 Expositors generally agree , that that place 〈◊〉 to that Time : And 't is plain , before the 〈◊〉 Angels came out of the Temple , clothed 〈◊〉 white Raiment , these sing for being 〈◊〉 by Christ's Blood from among Men●● this we still say is the chief Cause of Singing : And shall we be such Hypocrites , to be 〈◊〉 affected with outward Blessings , than 〈◊〉 inward Spiritual and Eternal Blessings ? 〈◊〉 did not the Christians , in the Time of the 〈◊〉 Persecutions , when they suffered the 〈◊〉 Torments Men could invent , sing Psalms 〈◊〉 Hymns unto God ? This can be no more 〈◊〉 , than that there were such Persecutions , since they that relate the Story of their Sufferings , gave us an account of this their Practice . Nay , and though they were discovered by their singing , and put to death , yet they would not decline this sacred and sweet Duty .

Object . 2. But , secondly , you say , Euery true Christian , nor the Church of Christ in general , is able to sing Praises to God in 〈◊〉 Publick Worship , because the greatest numbe● of them have not 〈◊〉 to the Faith of Assurance of the Love of God in Christ ; they are Babes , &c. pag. 42 , 43.

Answ. And therefore may the not , 〈◊〉 they not praise God ? this is strange Doctrine What is Singing to God , but to celebrate 〈◊〉 Praises ? and must not weak Christians 〈◊〉 this as well as strong , because they have no● arrived to the Faith of Assurance ? alas this 〈◊〉 but to fill up Paper , or the number of Objections to no purpose , for you will not allow the strong to sing , no more than the weak and yet in pag. 5. of your Book you affirm , 〈◊〉 Spiritual and Vocal Singing was used in 〈◊〉 Primitive and Apostolical Church , is undeniable● Let me tell you , there is no Christian but may see cause to praise God , nay , to sing his Praise , 〈◊〉 the weak Ones , and those under trouble , as well as the Strong : But no Church imposes upon every Member to sing ; they who can't see they have cause , may forbear at such times ; for tho all are called upon to rejoice evermore , yet doth God give all , at all times , ability thus to do ? such may be the temptations of some , that they can't do it , or at leastwise not to such a degree .

Your tenth Reply is about formal Prayer , and Singing used under the Law ; therefore you intimate as if we should say , Why may not 〈◊〉 Prayer & Singing be used under the Gospel ? p. 43.

Here you tell your Reader , That the Ministers and Worship under the Law were not so Spiritual : that Church consisted of Abraham's c●rnal Seed , ( this is all very true thus far ) so that their Instituted Worship was Formal , 〈◊〉 , Ceremonial , Carnal and Typical , suitable to them ; and the Design of God to make them and their Church-state 〈◊〉 Type , Shadow and figure of his calling a spiritual People into a 〈◊〉 spiritual Church-state , to serve him in 〈◊〉 spiritual Ordinances , in Spirit and Truth ; and so you go on .

Answ. We are not a pleading for Formal prayer , nor Formal Singing , nor Formal Preaching neither , nor for any Ceremony of the Mosaical Law , but for Spiritual Prayer , Spiritual Singing , and Spiritual Preaching , and only for Spiritual and Gospel-Ordinances .

But let me tell you , no Body who shall read these Lines , ( who does not know you ) but must and would conclude , you are against all 〈◊〉 and external Ordinances ; they are Expressions like what are oft sound in Quakers ●ooks , and seem to be more directly levelled against that Carnal and Formal outward Ordinance of Water-Baptism , and Bread and Wine , ( as the Quakers call them ) than against Singing ; because Singing the Praises of God , is so far from being a Carnal Ordinance , that 't is that which all believe the Angels and glorified Saints in Heaven are found exercised in ; 〈◊〉 , and all the Saints shall be found in to all 〈◊〉 . Sure you have less cause thus to 〈◊〉 upon Singing God's Praises , than against 〈◊〉 outward Ordinance whatsoever you could object against .

But I perceive what you aim at , viz. th● Matter must not be precomposed ; that 's the Formal Business with you . I will tell you , 〈◊〉 an extraordinary Gift of Singing was given to a Man , both in Matter and Manner , ye● it must be a Form to others that sing with him ; for he must either write it , and so give 〈◊〉 forth to them , or else speak the words of the Hymn he has to sing , or else how should they sing with him ? So that since you would 〈◊〉 none to sing but one Man alone , 't is no marvel you so oppose the Singing of the Psalm of David , or precomposed Hymns taken 〈◊〉 of the Word of Christ .

Moses , that you say sung by Inspiration , th● he had the Matter of his Song given to him immediately from God , yet did he give it ou● by speaking or writing to the Congregation● else how could they have sung it with him , 〈◊〉 the Holy Ghost positively says they did ? so that that was formal too with you . Nay , 〈◊〉 extraordinary Prophets first received the Word of the Lord , and may be sometimes some considerable while before they delivered it out to the People ; nay , we find Jeremiah wrote par● of his Prophecy in a Roll , was not that a Form they could repeat the same words over again● and sometimes did . 'T is not material whether the Form be David's Psalms , or Hymns give● out by an extraordinary or by an ordinary hel● of the Spirit , if others sing with him that ha● it , you will , I perceive , say that 't is formal● tho it be never so spiritual ; but I deny that 〈◊〉 have any Rule to expect Men should bring forth any thing in the Worship of God by an extraordinary Spirit to be preached or sung , but what is contained in the Word of Christ , or is taken out of the Scripture , or agrees thereunto ; because that is a perfect Rule both for Matter and Form , in the performance of all Religious Worship , and Ordinances of the Gospel ; and that which you call carnal and formal , I say , is spiritual . The Prayers that a Minister makes in the publick Congregation may , and oft do , contain many Scripture-Expressions , ( may be half his Prayer may be such ) and who shall say he doth not pray spiritually ? Nay , moreover , and that Prayer some will tell you is a Form to others , which he that is the Mouth puts up , and many times I have heard some good and godly Christians speak softly over the same words in the Congregation . Now since all Forms are cried down by you , sure this must needs be a 〈◊〉 Crime , or a carnal and formal Practice . There is nothing , I tell you again , without its Form : Is not the reading of God's Word a formal thing ? and yet dare you say that is no Duty to be performed in the Church ? If a formal thing , then , by your arguing , say I , 't is no Duty to read the Scripture in private neither . Now because all legal Forms are gone , must all Gospel and Spiritual Forms go too ? In all Administrations we should see to our Spirits that they be not formal , but that with Life and Spirituality we perform every Duty , &c. Have we not a kind of Form prescribed us by our Brethren and Sisters , and others too when they put up their Bills , and tell us what they would have us to ask or desire of God for them ? this would run us into strange Scruples . Must we tell them they must not put words into our Mouths , we must pray as the Spirit moves us , and can't tell whether we shall pray for them or no ?

Your eleventh Reply is this , viz , You intimate that we say , that Prayer under the Gospel is an Ordinance of the same nature it was under the Law , and therefore Singing under the Gospel may be of the same nature , &c.

To this ( you say ) that it is true , that private Prayer is a Duty of the same nature under the Gospel as it was under the Law .

But their Prayers , you say , were delivered formerly with dark Shadows and carnal Ordinances ; for whilst the Priest was offering the Sacrifices , the Priests and Levites in Songs with Instruments of Musick delivered such Prayers , and Psalms , and Praises as were appointed for the publick Service of God : Therefore ( say you ) whatsoever Singing hath been , or still may be in Gospel-times , may as well differ from the Old-Testament-Temple-singing .

Answ. Here you have wounded your self , and not us in the least . It appears your Exception lies against our praying in Gospel-times as much as against our singing from thence .

For we must not sing with united Voices , with Grace in our Hearts to the Lord , or at leastwise the singing in such a form or manner under the Law , is no Rule for us ; because they sing not only with their Voices , but had Musical Instruments also .

Why now I reason thus ; We must not pray with our Voice in Gospel-days , or at leastwise the Saints so praying under the Law can be no Rule for us , because they had dark Shadows mixt with their Prayers as you affirm they had ; so that since we have the Essence of both these Duties in our Spirit , which God looks more ●●pecially at , and we are capable to worship him acceptably without the Verbal and Vocal Instruments of our Body , Read pag. 8. of Mr. Marlow's Book . we must not with our Tongues neither pray ner sing the Praises of God : the one follows as naturally from the Premises as the other , by which all may see the Consequences of your Arguments against Singing .

Alas , the true matter of the case is this ; If People would be rightly informed :

Vocal Prayer is God's Ordinance , and a Moral Duty as well as instituted ; and the Saints praying and keeping Days of Fasting and Prayer , and Days of Thanksgiving under the Law , is a Rule for us : but all Shadows and Ceremonies they used in Prayer under that Dispensation , is nailed to the Cross of Christ , or bu●ied with him .

And so in like manner the singing the Praises of God with our Voices is God's holy Ordinance , and a Moral Duty , ( tho brought also under Institution ) ; yet all those Shadows and Ceremonies that they used in their singing under the Dispensation of the Law , as Instruments of Musick , &c. are nailed to the Cross and buried with Christ , as being Ceremonial . The like might be said in respect of Preaching then and now ; for there were some things then in tha● Administration that might be shadowing ; ye● Preaching abides God's Ordinance for ever . 〈◊〉 not in the Ministers Preaching under that Dispensation , yet 't is evident to be so in respect 〈◊〉 that Maintenance God appointed his Ministers then .

May you not say that the Ministers of Chris● under the Gospel ought not to have any Maintenance at all allowed them , or at leastwise that Law of God ( that provided for his Minister● under that Dispensation ) is no Rule for it , because that was by Tythes , &c. which was 〈◊〉 Legal Right , and abrogated by Christ ?

'T is known some have drawn such an Inference : but I am glad to see our London-Elders better instructed ; for in the late Treatise , called The Gospel-Ministers Maintenance vindicated ▪ ( which is recommended to all the Churches by them joyntly ) you may see , tho they gran● Tithes did appertain to the Mosaical Law , and that that Law is abrogated , yet they affirm the Equitableness of that Law remains : And from hence they urge and press the Duty of the Ministers Maintenance now in Gospel-days on our People . Take the words as they lie in that Book , pag. 109.

The Lord's People ought to be as careful in the discharge of their-Duty to Christ's Ministers now , as the Israelites were to the Levites ; tho , as we have already said , their Portion is not the Tenths of Mens Increase , nor the first Fruits , which Law is abrogated , yet the Equity of that Law ( that is a Moral Duty ) remaineth perpetually ; as the Apostle observes , Do you not know that they which minister about holy things , live of the things of the Temple ? and they that wait at the Altar , partake of the Altar ? &c. 1 Cor. 9. 13.

Why even so it is in the case of singing the Praises of God . Under the Mosaical Law the Lord's People used Musical Instruments in that Ordinance , which was a Legal Rite , and is abrogated ; but Singing is a Duty still : and from hence too it appears so to be upon the very same scot of Account , viz. because the Equity of it in all respects remains , and is the same , i. e. God deserves equally to be praised now as then ; 〈◊〉 there is the same reason we should sing his Praises now as they had . Nay , since we have received greater Grace , greater Light , clearer Discoveries of his Will , and greater and more glorious Blessings and Priviledges than they had ( we having the Substance of those things which they had but the Shadow of ) there is more reason we should sing the Praises of God now than they had then . For now under the Gospel , the time of singing of Birds is come , Cant. 2. 12. 〈◊〉 't is to be done more spititually ( without Musical Instruments ) only with our Voices together , with Grace in our Hearts to the Lord Col. 3. 16. In like manner also Israel in their assembling together to worship God ( which also is a moral Duty ) had then a glorious external Temple to worship in , as well as Musical Instruments in their Worship ; but because 〈◊〉 under the Gospel have no such glorious external Temple , must we not meet together to worship God at all ? or was their assembling together so to do , no Rule for us to perform that great religious Duty ? 't is easy to 〈◊〉 Ceremonial Rites , and places then used , from moral and perpetual Ordinances , and to shew how those external Rites and Shadows are gone , and yet that part which is moral remains forever .

The same holdeth good in respect of the Jewish Day of Worship , as well as to their Place of Worship , and Musick in their Worship ; for there is no more natural or moral Holiness in one day than there is in another . True a time of Worship is moral from the fourth Commandment ( nay , and so may , as some have learnedly shewed , the seventh part of Time likewise , but that Day lies in the Breast and Power of him who is the Lord of the Sabbath , viz. Jesus Christ , who in the New Testament hath appointed the first Day of the Week , and not the last , to be the Day of Gospel-Worship for us ) but the Jewish seventh Day , as Reverend Calvin excellently hath shewed ( Institut. pag. 124 , 125 , 126. ) was Ceremonial .

1. Because called a Sign between God and the Children of Israel , Ezek. 20. 12.

2. From the nature of the Law it self , which was given forth and charged to be kept with such strictness , that it plainly appears to appertain to the Yoke of Bondage ; they were not to kindle a Fire through all their Dwellings on their Sabbath , nor to speak their own Words , nor think their own Thoughts : from hence Calvin shews God discovered the absolute need and necessity of a perfect and compleat Righteousness in order to Justification and Acceptation with God , i. e. that the Creature must be without Sin , or attain to a Cessation from the Thoughts of Evil , which figured forth the necessity of Christ's perfect Righteousness , and of that Spiritual Rest such who believe in him enter into . All that are in the old Nature , or whilst they remain under the old Covenant-state , do labour and are heavy laden , there is the six days work in the Antitype , but when they come to Christ , believe in Christ , then they cease from their own Works , and enter into Rest , according as Christ hath promised , Mat. 11. 28 , 29. then they enter into the Antitype of the Jewish Sabbath , Heb. 4.

3. This also appears by the Nature of the Precept it self , as laid down Exod. 20. wherein all may see it seems to be a meer carnal Ordinance , like others which were imposed on the People till the Time of Reformation , or till the Substance came . What was it God enjoined on them , but a cessation from all external Labour or Work ? In it thou shalt do no manner of Work , Thou , nor thy Son , nor thy Daughter , 〈◊〉 thy Man-servant , nor thy Maid-servant , nor thy Cattel , nor the Stranger which is within thy Gates . Exod. 20. 10. Here ( as this Law was written in Tables of Stone ) are no Religious Duties enjoined on that Day , but a ceasing from bodily Labour , which fully shews the purport of it .

4. 'T is called by the Apostle , ( amongst other Mosaical Rites ) a Shadow of things to come , but the Body ( or Substance of them ) is Christ , Col. 2. 17.

And thus you may see how to exclude Ceremonial Rites used under the Law , that were joined to Moral Duties , and yet preserve that which is Moral in them . Doubtless though it is not our Duty to observe that Jewish Ceremony of the Seventh-Day-Sabbath , which was given forth and enjoined on them , yet the Law of the Fourth Commandment , as to a time of Worship ( as before ) remains to us , so doth Singing the Praises of God ; but the External Place of Jewish Worship , the Time and external Rites of their Worship , and the external Instruments of Musick then used in their Worship , went away altogether , and were buried with Christ .

Object . Your twelfth Reply is , To that we say of precomposed Forms of Preaching , since the extraordinary Gifts of the Spirit are ceased ; 〈◊〉 must now pray and preach by its ordinary Gifts ; and if we are allowed to use precomposed Forms of Preaching , why not of ( they might say ) say you , Prayer and Singing also ? pag. 46.

Answ. You seem to state this Objection not so fair as you ought , because you know we do not plead for such precomposed Forms of Prayer as we do of Preaching and Singing .

But the Truth is , if there was no more to be said against using those Forms of Prayer ( that some contend for ) than what you have said , they might be lawful too . Therefore I shall trouble the Reader with a recital of what you say to this Objection against precomposed Forms of Prayer , and Singing ; and what you say for Forms of precomposed Sermons , since you seem to be for one , and against the other .

I do acknowledg ( say you ) and assert , that we should not neglect Prayer , till we have an Extraordinary Gift or Impulse of Spirit unto Prayer ; but we should constantly go to God as we can , not only for continuance of those Mercies we have , but for further supplies of our inward and outward Wants , which are the chiefest part of Prayer . But Singing proceeds from a fulness of enjoyment , and is called a Breaking forth , and therefore requires a greater Measure of the Holy Spirit ; for we can pray for what we have not , but we should break forth into Singing for what we have , ●therwise we mock God , and draw nigh unto him with our Mouths , and honour him with 〈◊〉 Lips , when our Hearts are far from him , and our fear towards him taught by the Precepts of Men ; and therefore when I consider the present State and Frame of the Churches of Jesus Christ , I wonder that so many should be for Singing , when their Hearts are so much below Prayer ; for if we should go from Saint to Saint , we should find that this is the general Cry , I have a dead and stony Heart — I can't pray , I want the Spirit . — Now if thus it be , then where is the Spirit of Singing ? Will you lie , and express that with your Lips to God , which you have not in your Hearts ? Pag. 46 , 47.

Answ. The substance of what you say here , is this , viz. That a greater Measure of the Spirit of God is required in Singing , than there is required in Praying ; but you give no Reason for it . The Apostle saith , When I pray , I will pray with the Spirit ; and when I sing , I will sing with the Spirit , &c. 1 Cor. 14. 15. He doth not hint , he needed greater help to do the one , than to do the other . There is no Duty nor Ordinance of the Gospel , that can be performed acceptably to God without the Spirit , or the gracious Influences thereof : And certainly no Man besides Mr. Marlow will say there is more need of the Spirit in its greater Influence in ordinary Occasions , or in common Worship to praise God , nay , to sing his Praise , than there is to pray , and in the doing other Duties . You mention that in Isa. 52. 38. of Breaking forth . Why is that then a Vocal Singing ? it was hinted by you ( even now ) to be some kind of shouting or rejoicing , pag. 29. as if it was no such thing ( as here you seem to grant it to be ) when you think it will serve your turn another way : But all may perceive , by your arguing against Singing after the manner you do , ( that though the Essence in your sense be in our Spirits , and as others say , Singing is comprehended in their Praying , i. e. when they Praise God ) ; yet none of these in truth is proper Singing in your judgment ; for it it be , you contend against that which all Christians say they do own and perform .

But to proceed . There may be , 't is plain , an extraordinary Spirit of Prayer at some times , and an extraordinary Influence in Preaching , and an extraordinary Occasion to perform those Duties likewise , and so in Singiug : But must not we therefore be found in the performance of each of these Duties at any other time ? And have not all true Christians always in themselves the chiefest cause or ground of Singing forth the Praises of God that can be , viz. the consideration of Redeeming and Regenerating Grace , though sometimes to such degrees , they do not find that liveliness in their Spirits to do it ? Moreover , we ought to strive to be filled with the Spirit , that we may both Pray , Preach , and Hear also . But sometimes we have not those fillings of the Spirit in such a measure as at other times , yet must Pray , Preach , Hear , and Sing also ; for the Argument or Motive of Singing , ( as of our other Duties , ) doth not lie in our being so exactly qualified to do it , or in our extraordinary fitness for the Duty , but in the requirement of God , 't is his Ordinance , and may be our Sin if we are not so fit to praise God as we should be , nor are no more fit to pray and hear the Word preached .

Object . But some may object , Doth not James only injoin Singing of Psalms , when People are merry , or find great cause of inward Joy in the Lord ?

Answ. No , by no means , this must not be granted : for if so , then People must never pray but when they are afflicted . Do but read the Text , Is any among you afflicted ? let him pray . Is any merry ? let him sing Psalms . Jam. 5. 13. Sure 't is the Duty of the Lord's People to pray as well when they are not afflicted , but are in Health , and in Prospirity ; 't is always on fit and proper Occasions to be done , but when afflicted more especially , then in a more than ordinary manner to be in the Duty of Prayer . So , and in the like manner , 't is our Duty to rejoice and sing the Praises of God always , on all proper Occasions ; but when any are more then ordinarily lifted up with the Goodness of God , or filled with the Comforts of the Holy Spirit ; which is intended doubtless in that phrase , Is any Merry ? then they should in an especial manner sing Psalms , or Hymns , of Praises to God . Also from hence we may argue , that as it is the Duty of one afflicted Person thus by himself to pray , so when the whole Church is afflicted , they in an especial manner should keep days of Prayer together ; and so they oftentimes do on such an account : Yet it is the Duty of the Church to pray at other times notwithstanding . Why so it is in the case of Singing , when the whole Church of God hath received some signal Mercies in an especial manner , they ought together to give Thanks to God , and sing his Praise ; but yet , notwithstanding , they ought to sing the Praises of God at other times , as well as pray at other times ; and nothing is in the least hinted here in this place by the Apostle James to the contrary .

Object . But we have no Command to sing in our Publick Assemblies , either before or after Sermon , nor any Precedent that any Gospel-Church did so .

Answ. You must take heed and avoid needless Questions and Contentions . We have no Command to pray in our Publick Assemblies , either before or after Sermons ; nor no Precedent that any Gospel-Church did so , Must we not use that Practice therefore ? I am sure this Argument is as strong against the one as 't is against the other .

Obj. But we are commanded to pray always , and that is a very convenient time when the Word of God is preached ; every thing is sanctified by the Word of God and Prayer .

Answ. So we are commanded to rejoice evermore , 1 Thess. 5. 16. and in every thing to give thanks to God , Phil. 4. 4 , 6. And to sing his Praises , is the highest way or manner of rejocing and giving Thanks to God we are capable of attaining to , as it appears in all the Scripture ; And also by the example of the Holy Angels , who this way rejoice and give Thanks to God . Besides , the Preacher may pray before he comes out of his Closet , or secretly in his Heart when in the Pulpit , and answer those general Precepts : so that you may see what such kind of Cavilings will bring us to . 'T is evident we read of several Sermons the Apostle Peter preached , and Paul too , and some of them in Church-Assemblies , but no more mention is made of praying before or after their Sermons , than is of their Singing . And is it not as convenient a time when we hear the Excellencies of Jesus Christ , and the infinite Love of God , and the Happiness of Believers opened , then to sing and praise God , as it is a proper Season to pray to God for a Blessing upon the Word ? there is the like parity of Reason for the one as there is for the other . If any has the advantage , 't is the Ordinance of Singing , for two Reasons ; the one is a Precept , the other a Precedent . The Precept is given us by David , containing a Prophecy of the Gospel-days , and Gospel-Church . Psal. 100. 1. Make a joyful Noise unto the Lord , all ye Lands : Come before his presence with Singing . So Psal. 95. O Come let us sing unto the Lord : let us make a joyful Noise to the Rock of our Salvation . And , vers. 2. Let us make a joyful Noise unto him with Psalms . This all People , i. e. the Gentile-Churches are required to do as well as others , and to do it too when they come into the Presence of God ; which 〈◊〉 Expositors say , intends our coming into God's Presence in his Publick Worship . Moreover , the Watch-men ( and desolate Places , or Souls who have been like desolate Places ) saith 〈◊〉 Prophet , shall lift up the Voice , with the Voice together shall they sing , Isa. 52. 7 , 8. And these Watch-men are those whose Feet are beautiful 〈◊〉 the Mountains , who preach the Gospel of Peace , and bring glad-tidings of good things .

And this very Text the Apostle applies in ge●●●al to Gospel-Ministers in their publick Preaching of Christ in Christian Assemblies , see Rom. 10. 15. But we having so largely in this Treatise opened this , we shall say no more to it here .

As touching Examples , we have the Church of God , viz. Israel of old , who sung together in Exod. 15. 1. and in many other places ; 〈◊〉 , always generally when they came together to worship God , as they prayed to him , so they sang Praises to him ; which we have proved is no Ceremony of Moses's Law , but a Moral Duty , and so a Perpetual Ordinance . And in the New-Testament we have the Example of Christ himself with his Disciples , who after that part of Publick Worship , viz. celebrating the Holy Supper , sung an Hymn together . O how sad a thing is it that Men should go about to restrain , or withhold Praises from the Lord which are due to his holy Name , and wherein we are said to glorify him ! Psal. 50. 23. I am perswaded they will have but little Thanks from him one day for their thus doing .

And truly that want of God's Presence , or liveliness of Spirit , or that cause of Complainings that are in our Churches , ( of which you speak ) may partly arise from hence , i. e. from the general neglect of this great Duty , in which God of old appeared amongst his People , like a cloud , to fill his House with his glorious Presence , 2 Chron. 5. 13. owned also by God's gracious Testimony in giving his People 〈…〉 such eminent Victories over their Enemies , 2 Chron. 20. 21 , 22. And when they had consulted with the People , and appointed Singers unto the Lord , that they should praise the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness , they went out before the Army , and to say , Praise the Lord , for 〈◊〉 Mercy endureth for ever . And when they began to sing and to praise , the Lord set Ambushments against the Children of Ammon , Moab , and Mount Seir which came against Judah , and they were smitten . Israel's Success , ( saith Mr. Wells ) follows Israel's Singing . If the Lord's People will be found in their Duty , they shall not want God's Presence . To this I might add that glorious witness of his Presence in delivering Paul and Silas out of Prison , upon their Praying and Singing Praises to him , Act. 16. There may , 't is true , be a natural Joy , or false Rapture , by an erring Spirit : but that Joy and Presence of God we meet with in his own Way and Ordinance , nay in the same Ordinance in which he met with his People of old , we may be sure is to be prized , and esteemed as no natural or counterfeit Joy , say you what you please .

If in singing Psalms , Hymns , &c. there is no other Rule or Directions given in the New Testament differing from the Practice of the Saints before the Law , under the Law , and in Gospel-days , performed by Christ and his Disciples ; Then no Christian has cause in the least to doubt but so we are to sing , since 't is a Duty , and injoyned on the Churches in the New Testament , Ephes. 5. 19. Col. 3. 16. But this I have spoken largely to already likewise . See Chap. 9.

In Pag. 47. of your Book , you say , As to Forms of Prayer and Singing , you have sufficiently treated of them before , and that the sufficient Gifts of the Spirit shall continue for the Worship of God in the Gospel-Church to the end of the World ; and therefore your Business here you say is , only to shew that the using a Form of Preaching , is no Example for a Form of Singing — Because , say you , there is reason for a Form of Preaching from God's Word , and Example of Christ himself , who read a Text , and then preached from it ; though as he was not , so others are not limited to that , or any particular Forms ; yet it is lawful for them , and required of them to compare Spiritual Things with Spiritual , and to give themselves to reading and meditation , and to hold fast the form of sound Words , rightly dividing the Word of Truth — So that where the Scripture gives us a liberty , we may use it ; but it is our Sin to take it where it is forbidden , as you say , you have shewed in a form of Prayer and Singing .

Answ. In vain is all this : for all the Saints and Ministers of Christ in all the World , know there is no one form of Preaching laid down in all the Scripture .

We have no direct Precept nor Example to preach in the form of taking a Text of Scripture , and to raise a Doctrine from it , and then Generals and Particulars , with Application ; 't is left to the faithful Servants of God to make use of such a Form or Manner as the Spirit of God may help them to , and the best Form or Method they ought and do make use of , which they judg may most tend to the profit of the People . That place you mention of our Saviour taking a Text , and then preaching from it , is scarcely true ; however 't is a greater proof for a Form of Reading the Scripture in our Publick Assemblies , than for taking a Text to preach from it .

The Text saith , He went into the Synagogue of the Jews on the Sabbath-day , and stood up to read . Aud there was delivered to him the Book of the Prophet Isaias ; and when he had opened the Book , he found the place where it was written , The Spirit of the Lord is upon me , &c. Luk. 4. 17 , 18. And he closed the Book ( so do not we ) and gave it again to the Minister , vers. 20. And began to say unto them , This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your Ears , vers. 21. We read of no more he spake unto them from that Scripture . And as touching those general Directions you mention , of comparing spiritual Things with Spiritual , &c. 1 Cor. 2. 13. the Apostle doth not prescribe a Form of Preaching , but shews , as our Annotators observe , how they did disclaim those Orations of the Athenian Philosophers , using a plain and spiritual Stile , giving the naked Truths of God , without any paint of gawdery Phrase , speaking the Oracles of God as the Oracles of God , fitting Spiritual Things to Spiritual Persons , or opening one Scripture by another .

But certain it is , they preached by an Immediate and extraordinary Spirit or Inspiration ; And so do not we , but by an ordinary Spirit from the mediate Word , and therefore must study , and are left to use what Method we think may be ( as I said before ) most profitable for the Edification of the People : so that although the Matter of our Sermons are God's Word , and so Divine and Sacred , yet the Form or Method , you may as well call Formal and Human , as so to call our Sacred Hymns , &c. God hath graciously owned nevertheless this form of Preaching , and daily doth , for the conversion of many Sinners ; and so he doth our way of Singing , to the comforting and refreshing the Souls of many Saints . — We have matter to be sung plainly expressed , viz. the Word of Christ , in Psalms , and they are well known ; and also Hymns and Spiritual Songs , which are also easily known by such who are Spiritual , whether they be the Sacred Word of Christ as to the Matter of them or not , as it may be known , that the Doctrine is so which we hear preached .

As touching David's Psalms , they are formally God's Word as well as materially so : and since we are exhorted to sing Hymns and Spiritual Songs , I ask whether those Hymns and Spiritual Songs could be without a Form , either immediately , or mediately precomposed by the Spirit ? and whether the Spirit of God doth not , may not assist God's Servants now in precomposed Hymns , as he did of old ?

Object . But may be you will say , They are not in Metre in the Scripture , but other words are added to make them fit to be Songs , and that is humane .

Answ. We have none of the words in our own Tongue , which were originally given forth , by the Holy Ghost ; for the Holy Men of old who gave forth the Scriptures , spake them either in Hebrew or Greek words . And therefore some may object our Translation of the Bible is Humane , and our Scripture not God's Word ; besides we have many humane Supplements , as I said before , added , to make the sense good in our English Tongue : And as touching Meter , Prose and Verse is all one , if the same Truth be contained in the Verse as is in the Prose : And if it be equal Feet , or measured fitly to be sung , we do not matter Rhime at all . And so some tell you David's Psalms were left in the Original . But should we miss it , either in the form of Preaching , or Singing the Praises of God , since we can appeal to God we do both as nigh the Rule of the Word as we have received Light and Understanding , Who do you think will be most excusable in the Day of Christ , we , or such , who because they are not arrived to a satisfaction about the Form or Manner of Preaching , or of Singing , will do neither of them , or at leastwise wholly live in omission of the last , and yet say they believe 't is an Ordinance of Christ ?

And let me tell you , to admit of this nice Exception against practising of an Ordinance , because we do not know the exact Form , this will run us into a multitude of needless and frivolous Objections in the administration of other Ordinances ; one or two of which I have met withal .

As for Example . In Breaking of Bread , ( saith one ) you ought to have but one Loaf , because Christ's Body was but one entire Body , and the Church is said to be but one Bread ; therefore ( saith he ) if you have many Loaves , you err , in the form of this Ordinance ; and as by you practised , 't is humane and devised . Saith another , As soon as you have broke the Bread , you must pour forth the Wine ; because so soon as Christ's Body was broke , his Blood came forth . Saith a Third , You must eat all , and let none remain ; which others deny . One says , We must eat plentifully , for Christ so bids his Friends , Cant. 5. 1. Saith another , A little quantity of Bread , and so of the Cup , will answer the Form of the Administration .

So in the Form of Baptism , one may say , You must Baptize the Person forwards ; saith another , Backwards ; one may say , with a swift Motion ; another may say , it must be done with a slow Motion , and let the Person lie some time buried in the Water , that we may have the clear Representation of the Burial of Christ . Would not these be silly Objections ? And yet these appertain to the Form of the Administration of Christ's Ordinance . But as the Apostle saith , 1 Cor. 11. 16. If any seem contentious , we have no such Custom , nor the Church of God . We read , the Children of Israel for a long time had lost an Ordinance , viz. that of sitting in Booths in the Feast of Tabernacles , Nehem. 8. 14. which had not been done from the days of Joshuah the Son of Nun , vers. 17. so that none were then living to tell them the Form of those Booths . Suppose now that one had said , they must be made this way , and another that way ; and they should not have agreed about the Form or Fashion of these Booths , would this have justified some others among them to have said , We will have no Booths at all , unless there be some extraordinary Prophet to shew us the Form or Manner how they should be made ? No sure , there were none among them that we read of that were of such a Spirit ; or if there had , doubtless they would have been worthy of Reproof : but they all , according as they found it written in the Law , which God commanded Moses , &c. they went to work , and 〈◊〉 down Olive-branches , and Pine-branches , and Myrtle-branches , and made them Booths . Lord grant us the like Wisdom in this great Case , about the lost , or long-neglected Ordinance amongst us , of Singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs .

Object . Singing is a piece of Art ; Who can 〈◊〉 if he be not taught , so that he may do it artifically ? &c. Can this be a part of Sacred Gospel-Worship ?

Answ. As this Objection excludes this Holy Ordinance of Christ ; so it would likewise exclude other Duties . You will not admit it , because it cannot be done without Art . There is , I must tell you , an Art in Speaking , and no Man but has need to learn and be in●tructed to speak as he ought , that he may not ●ender himself ridiculous , especially when he speaks about Divine Things . How rarely and ●egantly do some Men express themselves to ●●ify others , by improving their natural Parts ? Also there is an Art in Preaching ; and all young Men , when they begin to take upon them that Work , need instruction how to handle a Doctrine . And so I may say in Praying too ; but I have shewed in this Treatise , that Men are as apt ; by natural Instincts , to sing , as they are to speak : And Paul shews , in 1 Cor. 14. that all who have Spiritual Gifts , should use them with all Wisdom ; so that the Church , and all God's People , may be edified . If the Trumpet gives an uncertain Sound , who shall prepare himself to the Battel ? The Method of Preaching must be learned and improved , and that well too . Some who have great Gifts , yet cannot utter themselves in an Eloquent manner to the profit of others , and it may be , because they are against studying the Rule or Art of Speaking : But all the World knows the way of Singing is easily learned ; And who gave Men those Faculties of Learning ? &c. Natural Gifts , as well as Spiritual , are to be improved to the Honour of God . Is not Reading of God's Word an Ordinance of the Gospel , and part of God's Worship ? and must not People learn to read ? And is not that a piece of Art as well as Singing ? can People read unless they are learned ?

'T is well if some of them who make this Objection , do not suffer their Children to sing vain Songs , whilst they plead against singing of Psalms , Hymns , and Spiritual Songs . But since 't is so natural for all , especially in Youth , to learn to sing , and so easily attained , ought not Parents to instruct their Children about what they should sing , and what not , that so Art and Nature too ( as some call them ) may be improved to the Honour of God ? Grace makes Natural Gifts and Arts to become Spiritual ; for the very words of gracious Persons are , or ought to be Spiritual : the more of Art Men have to express themselves , the more useful , by the Grace of God , they are made to others . If it had not been for Art and Learning , how should we have come to the knowledg of the Scriptures , they being locked up from us in unknown Tongues ?

Object . Some have objected against Singing , because that Gift and Manner , as they suppose , which was used in the Primitive Time in Singing , was not continued , and successively handed down to us .

Answ. By the same manner they might object against the Bible , and say , We ought not to receive it , because God did not continue the Gift of Tongues in the Church , that by virtue of those Gifts , the Old and New Testament ( without Humane Art ) might be delivered to us : Nay , and against Preaching too , &c. for those Gifts in the Apostolical manner of Preaching , was not continued nor handed down to us ; nay , what Ordinance had not lost its Primitive Form under the Apostacy ?

The Conclusion .

AND now , Brother , suffer me to make a little Improvement likewise , as well as you ; and notwithstanding your Conclusion savours of much Bitterness , I would fain have mine end with all Sweetness : if there is any Tartness , I cannot well help it .

First . Whereas you infer singing together of David's Psalms , or any humane precomposed Forms , is a corrupting the pure Worship of God , in mingling Law and Gospel , or humane and divine things together .

First , I infer , That to sing David's Psalms and Scripture-Hymns , and sacred Songs taken out of the Word of Christ , together in the publick Worship of God , is an holy Ordinance of Christ , and not in the least to mingle Law and Gospel together any otherwise than the Holy Ghost hath done it ; for Moral Duties are the same in the Law and Gospel .

Secondly ; Whereas you say , This will lead us to return from whence we came , at a Dog to his Vomit , and as a Sow that was washed , to her wallowing in the Mire . I say , 1. You do not write like an humble and trembling-hearted Christian , but shew too much Gall and Worm-wood in your Spirit . And , 2. I say , to sing the Psalms of David , and other sacred Scripture-Hymns and spiritual Songs , is to build up the old waste places , and restore the ancient Paths to dwell in , and a going forward and not backward .

Thirdly ; You would , you say , have the Leaders among us seriously consider , that are for such formal Singing ( as you call it ) whether they will be able to plead at the Bar of Christ for this Practice , tho they may urge it on their fellow-Brethren here , &c. and you put up a kind of Prayer , that God would give us a true sight and sense of the evil Consequences of this Error ( as you are pleased to call it ) that we may not cause his People to sin , but that with sound Doctrine we may strengthen the weak Hands and feeble Knees , &c.

Answ. I must intreat you to consider , whether you will be able to give a good account at the Bar of Jesus Christ , for endeavouring to diminish from God's Word ; nay , from Christ's New Testament , ; for sure we are , singing of Psalms , Hymns and spiritual Songs is one Ordinance found therein , which you strive to take way , and foolishly plead only for a thing called the Essence of it , without the Act or discharge 〈◊〉 the Duty according to the nature of the Ordinance , and so contrive a new kind of singing out of the dark Imagination of your Heart , and add that in the stead of it , which is not understood by the generality of Mankind , and so make us to believe ( if you could ) that Christ hath left an Ordinance that there is no way to come to any Certainty how it should be performed ; and hereby also lay a just occasion of Offence , or a Stumbling-block in the way of weak Christians , to think they may practise Ordinances acceptably to God ( which requires the bodily Organs ) without the Body , and so deny the Body to glorify God , tho redeemed to that end ; and expose our Glory ( viz. our Tongue ) to Reproach and Shame , and consequently rob God of some part , nay , one great part of his glorious Praise , and his poor Church of much sweet Comfort and Soul-Refreshment in his blessed Ordinance , as I have shewed in the first Chapter .

Moreover , consider what an account you will have to give to the Judg of the Quick and Dead , for saying , when the Scripture saith they sung , ( viz. Christ and his Disciples ) they did but give Thanks , or say Grace , from the remote and indirect Signification of the Greek Word ; or else sung alone , and not his Disciples with him . See what Reverend Mr. Cotton hath said in Pag. 14. of his Book , in Answer to such a kind of Objection as you make , mentioning that place of David , Psal. 3. 4. & Psal. 77. 1. I cried to the Lord with my Voice : Shall a Man detract from his meaning , and say ( saith Mr. Cotton ) he cried to God only with his Heart ? So when David exhorteth the Gentile Churches to make a joyful Noise unto the Lord , you do detract from his meaning , when you make his meaning to be , not that we should sing unto him with our Voice , but that we should only make Melody to him in our Hearts ? such 〈◊〉 ( ●aith he ) from the Word is alike disallowed and accursed of God , as adding to his Word , ( or otherwise , say I , a diminishing from it . )

Object . But , saith he , you object singing of Psalms with the Voice , is but a Type of that Melody in the Heart , or to that purpose I find he speaks .

Answ. 1. No Scripture ( saith he ) speaketh of it as a Type , nor doth any Evidence of Reason declare it .

2. You might as well say , that praying with the Voice was a Type of praying with the Heart , and so it is abolished .

3. If singing of Psalms with a loud Voice had been a typical Worship , David would not have exhorted us to the Practice of it on the Lord's-Day under the New Testament , Psal. 95. 1 , 2 , 7.

4. Christ and his Apostles would not have used it in the Lord's-Supper , which is a Feast of the New Testament ; nor would Paul and Silas have used it in Prison among the Gentiles ; nor would the Apostle have injoyned it on the Churches .

5. The Light of Nature is never wont to teach us Types and Shadows ; doth it not as well teach us to praise God in singing with our Tongues in times of our rejoycing , as to cry to God with our Voices in times of distress ?

Fourthly ; Whereas you would have us to consider , that if we err from the Rule in offering Praises to God contrary to his Appointment , whether we do not worship God in vain ? I say to you , whilst we thus offer Praises to God , it appears we worship him according to his Appointment , and so acceptable to him , and to his Glory , and our Comfort .

Strange , ours is not right and spiritual Singing ! and yet you can find no other way according to the Rule to perform that sacred Duty and Ordinance .

Thus I have answered your Book ( as well as the Lord hath been pleased to help me ) according to your Request ; for I was 〈◊〉 by you to do it you well know before several Witnesses : But did not I think the Name and Honour of God lay at stake , and the Information of man● of his dear Saints and People , in order to the● further Comfort and Establishment in his whol● Mind and Will , I should not have answered yo● in the matter ; and if you , or any body else shall see cause to reply , I shall be ready to return an Answer , if I find it do deserve or nee● one , if God is pleased to spare my Life , and t● enable me in the Work .

And now one word to you , my dear Brethren and Sisters , whose Souls are established in thi● sweet and heavenly Ordinance .

First , Consider how universally this Ordinance hath been practised , of singing the Praise● of God .

1. By variety of Persons ; as Kings and godly Princes , as Moses , who was a King in Jesurun , Deut. 33. 5. David , Joshaphat , Solomon , &c. By worthy Governours , as Nehemiah , &c. by Prophets , by the whole Congregation of God's People ; by Christ and his Apostles ; by the holy Martyrs of Jesus in the Primitive Times .

2. In all places ; by Moses in the Wilderness , Exod. 15. by David in the Tabernacle , by Solomon in the Temple , by Jehoshaphat in the Camp , by Christ and his Disciples at the holy Supper , by Paul and Sila● in Prison .

3. In almost all Conditions ; in times of Imprisonment , in Persecution and Martyrdom .

4. By all Sexes , both Men , Women and Maidens , old Men and Children .

5. Nay , and how all Creatures in Heaven and in Earth are called upon by the Holy Ghost to sing forth the Praises of God .

6. Consider how God hath honoured it with his Presence and gracious Acceptance , 2 Chron. 5. 13. with Victory over Enemies , 2 Chron. 20. 21 , 22.

7. Confirmed by Miracles , Act. 16. 25 , 26.

Secondly , Consider that Singing is ,

1. The Musick of Nature , as Mr. Wells observes , the Trees and Woods by a Metonymy are said to sing : And what sweet Musick do the pretty Birds make in the Air and Woods ?

2. 'T is the Musick of Ordinances , as appears by our Saviour's singing with his Disciples at the Celebration of one of the highest and most sublime Ordinances of the Gospel .

3. Singing is the Musick and Melody of Saints .

4. 'T is the Musick and Melody of Angels .

5. 'T is and shall be the Musick and Melody of Heaven , the glorious and glorified Saints and Angels send up their Praises this way .

But , my Brethren , be intreated to cry to God , that you may pray and sing with the Spirit , and with Vnderstanding also , 1 Cor. 14. 15. and with Grace in your Hearts , labour after Holy and Heavenly Frames . We must sing with Affections ; let your joyful Noise be from the sense of God's Love in a dear Redeemer to your own Souls . Let it be by exciting your Graces , let Faith be in exercise in this Duty , as well as in Prayer , and under the Word . Let it be with inward Joy ; remember it is your Duty to rejoice evermore , and what then can hinder your Singing God's Praises at any time ? Let it be for Spiritual Mercies and Blessings ; chiefly , more for deliverance from your Sin , than from your Suffering .

You have found that Singing is not only sweet and raising to the Spirit , but also full o● Instruction ; nay , I have heard how God has blessed it to the Conversion of some Souls , as well as to the Consolation of others . Austis is very excellent to this purpose ; Quantu● flevi in hymnis & canticis suavè 〈◊〉 Ecclesiae tuae , voces ill● influebant 〈◊〉 & eliquabatur veritas tua in cor meum , ex ea effluebat , inde effectus pietatis ; & currebant lachrymae , & benè mihi erat cum eis . How sweetly ( saith he ) have I wept in Hymns and Songs at the sounding of thy Church , the Voices flew into mine Ears , and thy Truth melted into mine Heart , and from thence flew forth the Effects of Godliness ; the Tears ran down mine Eyes , and it was well with me when I was with them . Aug. in his Preface to the Psalms , Cap. 6.

FINIS .