A gracEmail reader asks for an explanation of the terms "psalms," "hymns" and "spiritual songs" as mentioned in Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16.

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The word "psalm" originally meant a song sung to the accompaniment of a stringed instrument. By New Testament times, the term seems to have broadened to include an unaccompanied song as well. For Jews and Christians, the word "psalm" also refers to a chapter from the Old Testament Book of Psalms.

"Hymns" are songs sung in praise of someone -- for Christians, praise of God or Christ. Spiritual "songs" are literally "odes" -- also songs in honor or praise of another, with some connotation of a lyrical verse proclaiming the deeds or traits of the one being praised. Some interpreters believe that "spiritual" songs are songs directly inspired by the Holy Spirit. That includes nearly 2,000 years of possibilities, from many musical and literary genres.

Another interesting explanation of these terms comes from the Greek text of the Book of Psalms itself, where the three words "psalm," "hymn" and "spiritual song" ("ode") serve as headings of the individual chapters. It is possible, therefore, that Paul simply intended to refer to the Book of Psalms in its entirety. In earlier centuries, many Protestants sang nothing but biblical Psalms, a practice perpetuated still by the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America ("Covenanters"). One contribution of the charismatic renewal has been the rediscovery of the Book of Psalms as a source for worship music.

For more on true worship, click here.