Homilist 1 Samuel 16:23 And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was on Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand… The healing power of music has been recognised in all ages; and the afflicted who have come under its charms have often been conscious of relief. "Theophrastus is mentioned by Pliny as recommending it for the hip gout; and there are references on record by old Cato and Varro to the same effect, AEsculapius figures in Pindar as healing acute disorders with soothing songs." It is said that Luther, who was often haunted with the demons of melancholy, had frequent recourse to music. "He had," says Sir James Stephen, "ascertained and taught that the spirit, of darkness abhors sweet sounds not less than light itself; for music, while it chases away the evil suggestions, effectually baffles the wiles of the tempter. His lute, and hand, and voice, accompanying his own solemn melodies, were therefore raised to repel the vehement aggressions of the enemy of mankind." Now, if true music has this power, we should observe: — I. THE KINDNESS OF THE CREATOR IN ENDOWING SOME MEN OF EVERY CIRCLE WITH MUSICAL GENIUS AND VOICE. That man's social circle must be very limited which does not contain someone whom nature has gifted with this remedial power. Schiller, in his dark hour of sorrow, calls to a little girl full of music, and says: — Come here, my girl, seat thee by me, For there is a good spirit on thy lips. Thy mother praised to me thy ready skill: She says a voice of melody dwells in thee, Which doth enchant the soul. Now such a voice Will drive away from me the evil demon That beats his black wings close above my head." II. THE OBLIGATION OF THOSE THUS ENDOWED TO CULTIVATE THEIR TALENTS FOR THE COMMON GOOD. III. THE MERCY OF GOD IN ORDAINING ITS USE IN PUBLIC WORSHIP. In the Temple of old, music of the highest class was appointed by God, and placed under the direction of the most musical spirits and accomplished performers. IV. THE DUTY OF THOSE WHO HAVE THE CONDUCT OF WORSHIP TO PROMOTE THE BEST PSALMODY. Good psalmody must include good hymns as well as good melodies. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him. |
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