Pages are in very good shape - there is no writing, but there is an owner stamp inside cover and one first page. Top corner of first page is cut minor shelf wear. some handling wear and a few creases. Buy with confidence - every order ships with delivery confirmation tracking number. Fast shipping from our non-smoking home. 2019AMA1290 Additional Details ------------------------------ Product description: This book employs a methodology that I have found helpful in dealing with other topics. This procedure is to assemble the New Testament texts on the topic and interpret them, then check this interpretation against usage in early Christian literature outside the New Testament, and finally to examine the doctrinal considerations to determine if the interpretation rests on solid biblical theology.
Rather than gathering quotations from secondary literature, my approach is to read the source documents in the original and present the texts in their context.

At the time of first edition of the book, mine was the fullest collection of historical statements on early church music readily available. Other studies since that time are largely supportive of the historical facts presented in my work, even if the authors do not consider the evidence normative for today.

My conclusion is that the practice of unaccompanied congregational singing rests on good biblical, historical and doctrinal grounds.