For 150 years English Protestants had restricted themselves to singing only the Psalms in publish worship, while poets and hymn writers wrote for private devotion. Isaac Watts was the catalyst and liberator who not only ushered hymn signing back into congregational life, but also insisted that the Psalms be sung in the light of the New Testament gospel. This volume brings together his two most famous collections, Psalms of David Imitated in the Language of the New Testament and Hymns and Spiritual Songs, including Watts' own interpretive footnotes, his explanatory prefaces, and a small set of tunes from the era. All together, these features represent Watts' masterpieces in a way that hasn't been seen in print since his death. 6.375 in x 9.375 in 644 pages Hardcover with dust jacket Index by key words, Scriptures, and first lines Publisher: Doxology & Theology Press. Edited by Chris Fenner, introduction by Matt Boswell, and foreword by Esther Crookshank.
Isaac Watts is recognised as the "Father of English Hymnody", as he was the first prolific and popular English hymnwriter, credited with some 750 hymns. Many of his hymns remain in active use today and have been translated into many languages.
His education led him to the pastorate of a large Independent Chapel in London, and he also found himself in the position of helping trainee preachers, despite poor health. Taking work as a private tutor, he lived with the non-conformist Hartopp family at Fleetwood House, Abney Park in Stoke Newington, and later in the household of Sir Thomas Abney and Lady Mary Abney at Theobalds, Cheshunt, in Hertfordshire, and at their second residence, Abney House, Stoke Newington.
Though a non-conformist, Sir Thomas practised occasional conformity to the Church of England as necessitated by his being Lord Mayor of London 1700-01. Likewise, Isaac Watts held religious opinions that were more non-denominational or ecumenical than was at that time common for a non-conformist, having a greater interest in promoting education and scholarship, than preaching for any particular ministry.
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