Knowing Faith Psalms? Hymns? Spiritual Songs? Oh, My! with Matt Boswell
Dec 4, 2025
Matt Boswell, a hymn-writer and pastor at The Trails Church, dives into the importance of congregational singing and how it fosters teaching and community in worship. He distinguishes between psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, emphasizing their unique roles. Addressing those who aren't fond of singing, Matt encourages participation as a form of obedience and encouragement. He also discusses criteria for selecting church songs and the historical importance of hymnals, introducing the new Sing! Hymnal aimed at enriching congregational worship.
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Singing Over The Microphone
- Matt Boswell shares a moment singing When I Survey almost a cappella during the Lord's Supper while still at the pulpit.
- He notes the congregation's volume overshadowed who held the microphone, showing growing corporate singing.
Singing Is Corporate Teaching
- Congregational singing reclaims worship from a performer-driven model and restores mutual edification.
- Matt Boswell argues singing is both worship to God and teaching for one another, not a private act.
Psalms, Hymns, Songs: Unclear Categories
- The precise biblical distinction between psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs is historically uncertain.
- Boswell suggests Psalms are distinct while hymns may be doctrinal and spiritual songs more responsive, but admits uncertainty.
