1 Chronicles 16:8-36

The scope of this psalm, taken altogether, is to celebrate the praises of Jehovah, and especially in his covenant love to his redeemed. Hence he is to be praised for the glories of his own name, for his mercies in creation, in redemption, in providence, and in grace. These glorious acts of the Lord are to be proclaimed throughout the earth that the whole heathen world may rejoice: and surely they will rejoice that seek the Lord. Then comes in the praises of his name for his covenant-love and mercy, of which he had been ever mindful, and whereby he hath proved his faithfulness. The mercies of redemption in Egypt come next, in this sweet song, to be celebrated: when the people were but few, and those few strangers; yet such was the love of Jehovah, that none were suffered to hurt his redeemed. So that the Psalm calls upon all the redeemed to this service, and that from day to day. This is a sweet thought, because the salvation is all along considered in the church with an eye to Christ. And when the Psalm had thus called upon Israel in a more eminent and exalted manner, all creation are invited to join in the universal chorus; and finally all sing aloud, Amen. It must have formed a most interesting sight to have been present at such a solemnity. The instruments used upon this occasion were suited to the dispensation in which the church then was. But I find no authority in our New Testament dispensation for such things. I rather fear, if men were true to their principles, that gracious souls could not be pleased with the use of them. They were never (I venture to believe) found the means of leading the heart to God; but I venture to assert, that they have in numberless instances led the heart from God. The harmony of organs, flutes, and fiddles, may, and will suit carnal ordinances; but they who worship God in spirit, need only the Spirit's leadings to worship God in spirit and in truth.