OUTLINE OF PSALMS
(from Psalms course East Tennessee School of Preaching)
Book I: A collection of Psalms primarily by David, makes special use of name Jehovah.
Psalm I, Who Is the Happy Man?
Author: Unknown.
Ethical.
Background unknown.
I. The Happy Man described, 1:1-3.
A. Negatively
B. Positively
II. The perils of wickedness, 1:4-5.
Conclusion, 1:6
Psalm 2, Messiah’s Reign and His Enemies.
Author: David, Acts 4:25.
Messianic.
Background: For application see Acts 4:23-31.
I. The Heathen’s Rage against Messiah, 2:1-3.
II. The Response of Almighty God, 2:4-6.
III. Messiah Recites His divine commission, 2:7-9.
IV. The Psalmist admonishes the rebellious rulers, 2:10-12.
Psalm 3, His Unshaken Trust in God in the Face of Hostile Opposition.
Author: David.
A devotional meditation for morning.
Background: Absalom’s rebellion, II Sam. Chapters 15-18.
I. His complaint. 3:1-2.
II. His confidence in Jehovah. 3:3-4.
III. His safety under God’s care. 3:5-6.
IV. His prayer for salvation. 3:7-8.
Psalm 4, A Song of Trust in God’s providence.
Author: David.
A devotional meditation for evening.
Background: Absalom’s rebellion as above (?)
I. he requests an audience with God, 4:1.
II. He rebukes his enemies. 4:2-5.
III. He expresses his confidence in the Lord. 4:6-8.
Psalm 5, A Prayer for protection against his Enemies.
Author: David
Devotional petition.
Background: Unknown.
I. His petition to be heard. 5:1-7.
a. God’s attitude toward the wicked. 5:4.
b. His confidence in God. 5:8.
II. His request of guidance. 5:8.
III. His enemies described. 5:9
IV. His imprecation. 5:10
V. His prayer for God’s people. 5:11-12.
Psalm 6, A cry for Mercy In Time of Sickness.
Author: David.
Penitential Psalm.
Background: A time of serious illness and suffering.
I. His anguished cry for relief. 6:1-3. – Plight
II. An earnest plea for deliverance from death. 6:4-7. - Plea
III. His confidence in God’s favorable response. 6:8-10 - Praise
Psalm 7, A Prayer for Protection by God against His Enemies.
Author: David.
Petition.
Background: Perhaps when persecuted by Saul, I Sam, Chapter 21-26.
Sung by the Hebrews at the Feast of Purim.
I. His confident request. 71-2.
II. He protests his innocence. 7:3-5.
III. A Plea for vindication by God. 7:6-10.
IV. God and sinners contrasted. 7:11-16.
V. His thanksgiving. 7:17.
Psalm 8, Praise to God for His Goodness to Man.
Author: David
Psalm of Praise.
Background: Unknown.
I. His praise to God. 8:1-2
II. His question, why has God so honored man, 8:3-5.
III. His contemplation of what God has done for man, 8:6-8.
IV. His concluding praise. 8:9.
Psalm 9, A Thanksgiving Psalm for God’s Justice.
Author: David.
Thanksgiving hymn,
Acrostic in pattern, with the first letters of each line beginning with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. In this psalm two lines are assigned to each letter.
Background: Upon the defeat of some unknown heathen enemy.
I. His unreserved thanksgiving to God. 9:1a.
II. His testimony of God’s works. 9:1b.
III. His praise to God. 9:2.
IV. He praises God’s righteous judgments. 9:3-8.
V. He praises God for complete security. 9:9-11.
VI. God’s vengeance on the wicked is complete. 9:12-17.
VII. He calls upon God to vindicate the righteous and judge the wicked. 9:18-20.
Psalm 10, A Prayer for the overthrow of the Wicked.
Author: Unknown.
Imprecation.
Background: Unknown
I. He complains that God has forgotten him. 10:1.
II. He describes hi enemies. 10:2-11.
III. He prays for deliverance. 10:12-18.
Psalm 11, Trust in Jehovah as a Refuge and Defense.
Author: David
A psalm of praise.
Background: Probably when persecuted by Saul or Absalom.
In the form of a dialog.
I. The Timid counsels of the fearful advisers. 11:1-3.
II. David’s reply of faith, 11:4-7
Psalm 12, A Request for Divine Help Against the Righteousness.
Author: David.
A petition.
Background: This depicts a time of national moral and ethical collapse in Israel.
I. His prayer for deliverance. 12:1-2.
II. His prediction that God will punish the arrogant. 12:3-4.
III. God’s promise to respond. 12:5-6.
IV. His affirmation of faith. 12:7-8.
Psalm 13, An Urgent Plea for Help in Affliction.
Author: David.
A petition.
Background: unknown.
I. His sigh of anxiety. 13:1-2.
II. His earnest petition for divine help. 13:3-4.
III. His song of faith and hope. 13:5-6.
Psalm 14, One the Universal Foolishness and Wickedness of Men.
Author: David.
A Jehovahistic psalm. Psalm 53 is parallel to 14 but uses Elohim.
Background: During a time of national oppression. 14:7.
I. The unbeliever described. 14:1-3.
II. His confidence in God’ judgment. 14:4-6.
III. His prayer for deliverance. 14:7.
Psalm 15, The Terms of Friendship with God.
Author: David.
An ethical psalm.
Background: Psalm 24 probes the same question.
I. His question, who can dwell with God? 15:1.
II. God’s reply. 15:2-5a.
III. The security of the righteous. 15:5b.
Psalm 16, Jehovah, the Author’s Portion in Life and Savior from Death.
Author: David.
Messianic. 16:8-11 is applied by Peter to Christ’s resurrection, Acts 2:25ff.
Background: Unknown.
I. His prayer of faith, 16:1.
II. His affirmation of trust in God. 16:2-5.
III. The blessings of serving God. 16:6-7.
IV. His confidence in God’s protection. 16:8-10.
Psalm 17, Encompassed by Enemies, David prays for help.
Author: David.
Petition.
Background: Uncertain.
I. His prayer of confidence, based on his righteousness, 17:1-5.
II. His petition to be preserved even in a wicked world. 17: 6-12.
III. The spirit of the world and the spirit of God contrasted, 17:13-14.
IV. Conclusion. His affirmation of faith. 17:15.
Psalm 18, Jehovah praised for a Victory.
Author: David.
Hymn of Praise and Thanksgiving.
Background: Written when God delivered him from the hand of Saul. II Sam. 22:1.
I. What God meant to David, 18:4-19.
II. Dangers he had faced with God. 18:4-19.
III. The divine principle of blessing, 18:20-28.
IV. His glorious victories recounted. 18:29-45.
V. His thanksgiving to God. 18:46-50.
Psalm 19, Jehovah’s Work and Word Praised.
Author: David.
An Instruction.
Background: Unknown
I. The glory of God seen in Creation. 19:1-6.
II. The glory of God seen in His word. 19:7-11.
III. His prayer for forgiveness and acceptance. 19:12-14.
Psalm 20, A Prayer for Victory for the King.
Author: David.
An intercessory prayer-song.
Background: Sung by the people for their ruler when he was preparing to enter battle. It is closely related to Ps. 21. This one is intercessory, that one is a thanksgiving.
I. The congregation’s prayer-song for their King. 20:1-5.
II. The worship leader responds with confidence. 20:6.
III. The congregation affirms its faith in Jehovah for victory. 20:7-8.
IV. Conclusion: Save, Jehovah. 20:9.
Psalm 21, Thanksgiving for Deliverance and Victory.
Author: David.
Thanksgiving.
Background: Written to celebrate the king’s victory in war. A sequel to Ps. 20.
I. The congregation praises God for the victory. 21:1-7.
II. Their words of encouragement to the king. 21:8-12.
III. Conclusion, Praise to Jehovah. 21:13.
Psalm 22, A psalm predicting the anguish of Calvary.
Author: David.
Messianic. It gives a vivid picture of the crucifixion.
Background: A summary of David’s persecutions and sufferings.
I. The Complaint of the sufferer, 22:1-8.
II. His petition of confidence. 22:9.
III. His suffering at the hands of his enemies. 22:12-21.
a. His enemies described. 22:12-13.
b. His personal suffering. 22:14-18.
1. This depicts in detail Christ’s crucifixion.
IV. His last desperate plea for help. 22:19-21.
V. He predicts that all men will share in the Lord’s blessings. 22:26-31.
Psalm 23, Jehovah, David’s Shepard.
Author: David.
A devotional meditation. The best loved of all the psalms.
Background: Unknown.
I. Jehovah is His Shepherd. 23:1-4.
a. He provides every need. 23:2-3.
b. He protects his sheep. 23:4.
II. Jehovah’s Blessings are overflowing. 23:5-6.
Psalm 24, A Psalm celebrating the bringing of the Ark to Jerusalem.
Author: David.
A hymn of celebration and rejoicing.
Background: When David brought the Ark of God into Jerusalem. See I Chron. 15-16; II Sam. 6:12-23.
I. Jehovah’s universal reign. 24:1-2.
II. Qualifications of those who would come before Jehovah. 24:3-6.
III. The coming of Jehovah into His city. 24:7-10.
Psalm 25, A prayer for protection, instruction and forgiveness.
Author: David.
Alphabetic.
Background: Unknown
I. A prayer for protection. 25:1-3.
II. A request for guidance. 25:4-5.
III. A plea for pardon. 25:6-7.
IV. His confidence in Jehovah. 25:8-11.
V. The blessings of the man who fears God. 25:12-14.
VI. His prayer of faith. 25:15-21.
VII. His prayer for all of God’s people. 25:22.
Psalm 26, A prayer of a righteous man for protection.
Author: David.
A petition.
Background: It seems to reflect a situation in which the author had endured some unjust suffering or sorrow.
I. His appeal to God for justice. 26:1-7.
II. His love for God’s house related. 26:8.
III. His petition for deliverance from evil men. 26:9-10.
IV. His resolve to faithfully serve God. 26:11-12.
Psalm 27, A psalm of unswerving trust in Jehovah.
Author: David
Instruction and petition.
Background: Unknown.
I. His declaration of confidence in his God. 27:1-6.
a. He relates how God protects him. 27:1-3.
b. He expresses his intense desire to worship at God’s house. 27:4-6.
II. His fervent plea. 27:7-13.
a. That God will hear his prayer. 27:7-9.
b. His total trust in God’s care. 27:10-13.
III. His admonition, wait for Jehovah. 27:14.
Psalm 28, A plea for help and thanksgiving for its answer.
Author: David.
Imprecatory.
Background: Unknown.
I. His petition to be heard. 28:1-2
II. His imprecation on the wicked. 28:3-5.
III. His thanksgiving for answer to his prayer. 28:6-7.
IV. A prayer for God’s People. 28:8-9
Psalm 29, Praise to God for his power as seen in a thunderstorm.
Author: David.
A hymn of adoration.
Background: Likely the author was motivated to write this upon witnessing a spectacular thunderstorm.
I. An admonition to give praise to Jehovah. 291-2.
II. Reasons why all should praise God. 29:3-11.
a. God’s great power as seen in the thunderstorm. 29:3-9.
b. God’s grace toward his people. 29:10-11.
Psalm 30,hanksgiving upon recovery from illness.
Author: David.
A thanksgiving hymn.
Background: The author had been sick unto death, but God had heard his prayer and healed him.
The Hebrews use this psalm in celebrating Chanucah which commemorates the rededication of the temple after the persecution of Antiochus Epiphanes.
I. His thanksgiving for deliverance from his near fatal illness. 30:1-3.
II. He admonishes others to praise the Lord. 30:4-5.
III. His past mistake, false security. 30:6-10.
IV. His recovery and thanks for it, 30:11-12.
Psalm 31, A prayer of praise and petition.
Author: David.
Petition for help.
Background: Perhaps written for Saul’s persecution of David. I Sam. 23.
I. His prayer for deliverance. 31:1-6.
II. He exalts in God’s expected deliverance. 31:7-8.
III. His complaint at God’s delay in responding. 31:9-14.
IV. His request for deliverance from his enemies. 31:15-18
Psalm 32, The happiness of a forgiven sinner.
Author: David
A didactic psalm, a penitential psalm.
Background: Written after David’s forgiveness for his sin with Bathsheba. II Sam. 12:1-24. Psalm 51 should be read first.
I. The happiness of the forgiven man. 32:1-2.
II. The misery of the sinner. 32:3-4.
III. The pleasant fruit of confession. 32:5-7.
IV. He urges men to willingly obey God. 32:8-11.
Psalm 33, Praise to the Lord, Creator and Preserver of ALL.
Author: Anonymous.
A Psalm of praise and Adoration.
Background: When the nation was delivered from heathen oppression.
I. A call to praise God. 33:1-3.
II. Praise God for his word and creation. 33:4-9.
III. Praise God who rules all the nations. 33:10-17.
IV. Praise God who protects and provides for his people. 33:18:22.
Psalm 34, A hymn to Jehovah the great provider and deliverer.
Author: David.
Alphabetic, Didactic.
Background: For a possible background see I Sam. 21:10-15, when he feigned madness to escape the Philistines.
I. His continual hymn to God. 34:1-10.
a. He urges others to praise God with him. 34:1-3.
b. He relates God’s protection and deliverance 34:4-7.
c. He relates God’s gracious provisions. 34:8-10.
II. His lesson of instruction.
Psalm 35, a Petition for help against his enemies
Author: David.
An Imprecation.
Background: This seems to have grown out of Seal’s persecutions. I Sam. 24:1-17
I. His prayer for divine judgment on his enemies. 35:1-10.
II. His complaint about his enemy’s ingratitude. 35:11-18.
III. His confidence that God will vindicate him. 35:19-27.
IV. His concluding promise to praise God always. 35:28.
Psalm 36, A song contrasting the wickedness of man with the righteousness of God.
Author: David.
A didactic psalm.
Background: Unknown
I. The character of the wicked described. 36:1-4.
II. He extols God’s mercy. 36:5-9.
III. He requests God’s continues blessings. 36:10-12.
Psalm 37, The seeming prosperity of the wicked and the real prosperity of the righteous.
Author: David.
An acrostic with each four lines being assigned a letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
Background: He vindicates the righteousness of God’s providence.
I. He urges men to avoid murmuring and trust Jehovah. 37:1-8.
II. He contrasts the fortunes of the righteous and the wicked. 37:9:34.
a. The triumph of the wicked is short lived. 37:9-11.
b. The futility of wickedness. 37:12-15.
c. The advantages of righteousness over wickedness. 37:16-22.
d. The blessings of the righteous are blest. 37:29-34.
e. Reasons why the righteous are blest. 37:29-34.
III. His recommendations to his hearers. 37:35-40.
Psalm 38, A prayer of a suffering servant.
Author: David.
A penitential psalm.
Background: Relates to a time of physical illness and persecution.
I. His prayer concerning his bodily and mental suffering. 38:1-8.
II. He relates that friends had deserted him and enemies were attacking. 38:9-14.
III. His fervent plea for deliverance. 38:15-22.
Psalm 39, A song on the vanity of life.
Author: David
A didactic psalm.
Background: Unknown.
I. A resolution to bridle his tongue. 39:1-3.
II. He prays for divine help in understanding life’s brevity. 39:4-5.
III. Hi acknowledges God’s power to chasten his life. 39:6-11.
IV. His plaintiff cry for help. 39:12-13.
Psalm 40, He praises God for a great deliverance and prays for further help.
Author: David
A Messianic Psalm
Background: Verses 13-17 are repeated in Psalm 70.
I. He praises God for a past deliverance. 40:1-3.
II. He praises God for his wonderful works. 40:4-5.
III. He pledges his faithful obedience to God. 40:6-10.
a. Compare Heb. 10:5-10 for messianic application.
IV. His prayer for help and deliverance. 40:11-15.
V. His request for the righteous. 40:16-17.
Psalm 41, In sickness he complains of enemies and false friends.
Author: David.
Didactic.
Background: Thought to be related to Absolom’s rebellion.
I. He relates the blessing of the sympathetic. 41:1-3.
II. He pleads for aid in his distress. 41:4-12.
III. His final benediction. 41:13.
Note: The “amen and amen” brings the first book of Psalms to a close
Book II. A collection of psalms by the Sons of Korah, David and others, makes primary use of name Elohim; speaks of Israel’s ruin, redemption and redeemer.
Psalm 42, A song of the soul’s desire for God.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A devotional psalm.
Background: Ps. 42 and 42 may originally have been one; some Ancient manuscripts have it thus. Both of these seem to relate to the Babylonian captivity.
I. He reminisces about past joys of worship. 42:1-5.
II. His hope for heavenly help in sorrow. 42:6-11.
Note the refrain in verses 5 and 11.
Psalm 43, a prayer for deliverance.
Author: See notes on ps. 42.
A devotional petition.
Background: The exiles in Babylonian captivity.
I. He prays that God would be his advocate. 43:1-3.
II. He promise to worship God. 43:4.
III. His refrain. 43:5.
Psalm 44, A cry of despair when their army had suffered defeat.
Author: Sons of Korah
A devotional psalm of petition
Background: From the experience of a national disaster when they had been defeated militarily.
I. He remembers God’s providential leadership of the past. 44:1-3.
II. He pleads with God for renewed help. 44:4-8.
III. He complains that God has allowed the enemy to prevail. 44:9-16.
IV. He insists on Israel’s faithfulness. 44:17-22.
V. He repeats his plea for deliverance and victory. 44:23-26.
Psalm 45, A song celebrating the King’s marriage.
Author: Sons of Korah
Messianic.
Background: This was first written to celebrate Solomon’s wedding, typically it applies to Christ and the church.
I. The preface. 45:1
II. The bridegroom’s character and reign described. 45:2-0.
III. The bride in her beauty is exhorted to leave family and friends and come unto her husband. 45:10-17.
Psalm 46, A hymn to God the refuge of his people.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A song of celebration for a military victory God had given them.
Background: Following a great and perilous battle.
I. His declaration of faith in God. 46:1-3.
II. His reflection on God’s protection of Zion. 46:4-7.
III. His invitation to men to view God’s judgments. 46:8-11.
Psalm 47, A call to glorify God.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A psalm of praise and adoration.
Background: May have been written when the ark was carried up to Jerusalem, or when God destroyed the Assyrians before Jerusalem. This psalm is sung in Jewish synagogues on New Year’s Day.
I. A call to praise God. 47:1-5.
II. Reasons why men should praise God. 47:6-9.
Psalm 48, A psalm celebrating the beauty and glory of Jerusalem.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A psalm of thanksgiving for national deliverance.
Background: When Jehovah delivered Jerusalem from the Assyrians. II Kings 18:19; 19:37.
I. The Glory of the Holy City, Jerusalem. 48:1-3.
II. The consternation of her foes. 48:4-8.
III. His exhortation to remember God’s blessings. 48:9-14.
Psalm 49, The foolishness of trusting riches.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A didactic psalm.
Background: Note the similarity of this psalm to Ecclesiastes.
I. His invitation to men to listen. 49:1-4.
II. Wealth cannot avoid death. 49:5-12.
III. The end of the righteous contrasted with the wicked. 49:13-15.
IV. Man cannot carry his wealth beyond the grave. 49:16-20.
Psalm 50, A hymn to God, the judge of all men.
Author: Asaph.
A song of instruction
Background: the psalm depicts a courtroom scene with Jehovah as judge and all men as defendants.
I. The heavenly judge in his awesome glory. 50:1-6.
II. The judge’s address to the defendants. 50:7-15.
III. The judge indicts wicked teachers. 50:16-21.
IV. Concluding statements to both saints and sinners. 50:22-23.
Psalm 51, A fervent prayer for pardon by a convicted sinner.
Author: David.
A Penitential psalm.
Background: Written by David after his rebuke by Nathan concerning his sin with Bathsheba, II Sam. 12:1-14. This and Ps. 32 compliment each other.
I. His prayer for forgiveness for his shameful deed. 51:1-9.
II. His plea for restoration and renewal. 51:10-12.
III. His pledge to teach others the lessons he had learned. 51:13-17.
IV. The King’s prayer for his nation. 51:18-19
Psalm 52, David’s song of confidence that he would be delivered from his enemy.
Author: David.
An affirmation of faith in God’s providence.
Background: When Doeg the Edomite sought to ensnare David for Kings Saul, I Sam. 21:1-7; 22:9-23.
I. His invective against Doeg and Saul, 52:1-5.
II. The satisfaction of the righteous when they see the wicked fail. 52:6-7
III. The confidence of those who follow Jehovah. 52:8-9
Psalm 53, On the universal sinfulness of men.
Author: David
A psalm of instruction
Background: A revised edition of Ps. 14. Because of verse 6, some think it may have been written during the Babylonian captivity.
I. The unbeliever described. 53:1-4.
II. The judgment of the unbelievers. 53:5.
III. The author’s prayer for deliverance. 53:6.
Psalm 54, David’s prayer in Ziph while hiding from Saul.
Author: David
An urgent petition for help.
Background: David had been betrayed by the Ziphites unto Saul who wished to kill him. I Sam. 23:19-29.
I. His urgent prayer for help. 54:1-3.
II. His confidence that God would help him. 54:4-5.
III. His gratitude in promised. 54:6-7.
Psalm 55, A prayer for Divine judgment on the wicked.
Author: David.
An imprecatory psalm.
Background: When Absalom rebelled, II Sam. 16:20ff.
I. His plight and prayer for deliverance. 55:1-8.
II. His imprecation upon his enemies. 55:9-15.
a. Verses 12-15 apply first to Ahithophel who was a traitor to David, but typically to Judas Iscariot.
III. His faith brings confidence. 55:16-21.
IV. His closing exhortation and meditation. 55:22-23.
Psalm 56, David’s prayer for deliverance from the Philistines.
Author: David.
A petition for help.
Background: When David was captured by the Philistines in Gath, I Sam. 2:11 – 22:1.
I. He complains that men would devour him. 56:1-2.
II. He expresses his confidence in God. 56:3-4.
III. He describes the actions of his enemies. 56:5-6.
IV. He voices his hope in God. 56:7-9.
V. He sings his thanks to God. 56:10-13.
Psalm 57, David’s prayer while hiding from Saul.
Author: David.
A petition for help.
Background: When David hid from Saul in the cave. I Sam. 24:1-12.
I. His plea for mercy. 57:1.
II. His motivations for imploring God. 57:2-6.
III. His resolution to give God the praise. 57:7-11.
Psalm 58, A protest against wicked judges.
Author: David.
An imprecation.
Background: Unknown
I. The accusation is laid upon the ungodly. 58:1-5.
II. God’s judgment is sought. 58:6-8.
III. He predicts the judgment of the wicked and the reward of the righteous. 58:9:11.
Psalm 59, A prayer that God will deliver him from his enemies.
Author: David.
A petition in a time of severe distress and an imprecation.
Background: When Saul dispatched troops to kill David. I Sam 19:11-18.
I. His plea for deliverance. 59: 1-2.
II. His complaint about his plight. 59:3-8.
III. He foresees the end of the wicked. 59:9-10
IV. His imprecation. 59:11-15.
V. His thankful praise. 59:16-17.
Psalm 60, A lamentation over a lost battle and a prayer for help.
Author: David.
A lamentation and petition.
Background: Following a battle with Syria. II Sam. 8:3-14.
I. His mournful cry of sorrow. 60:1-3.
II. His gladsome song of victory. 60:4-8.
III. He petitions God for renewed help against the enemy. 60:9-12.
Psalm 61, A song of God’s providential protection.
Author: David.
A hymn of petition and praise.
Background: Seems to reflect David’s recovery from Absalom’s rebellion.
I. His prayer for Protection. 61:1-3.
II. His pledge to serve God always. 61:4.
III. His confidence in God’s providence. 61:5-7.
IV. His concluding vow. 61:8.
Psalm 62, A song teaching men to seek refuge in God.
Author: David.
A didactic psalm.
Background: Unknown.
I. His confidence in God’s deliverance. 62:1-2.
II. The attack of his enemies. 62:3-4.
III. He reminds himself to be patient. 62:5-9.
IV. He urges men to trust not money. 62:10.
V. The power and righteousness of God are his confidence. 62:11-12.
Psalm 63, A psalm praising God as the Soul’s satisfaction.
Author: David.
A devotional psalm.
Background: When David was pursued by his enemy, either Saul or Absalom.
This psalm was read daily by many early Christians when under persecution.
I. His ardent desire for worship. 63:15.
II. His meditation of God’s past help. 63:6-8.
III. His prediction. 63:9-11.
a. Concerning his enemies, destruction. 63:9-10
b. Concerning himself, victory. 63:11.
Psalm 64, He prays for protection against a conspiracy.
Author: David.
A petition and instruction.
Background: Seems to relate to his stay at Ziph while hiding from Saul.
I. He praises God for answered prayer. 65:1-4.
II. The righteous power of God described. 65:5-8.
III. His harvest song. 65:9-13.
Psalm 66, A psalm of national thanksgiving for deliverance in answer to prayer.
Author: David
A thanksgiving hymn.
Background: Unknown.
I. A call to worship God. 66:1-4.
II. He reviews the history of God’s care of Israel. 66:5-7.
III. He urges people to bless God, even in distress. 66:8-12
IV. He pledges to honor his vows to God. 66:13-15.
V. His message to his fellows about God’s blessings. 66:16-20.
Psalm 67, A charge to all men of all nations to praise God.
Author: Unknown
A hymn of praise.
Background: Unknown. This psalm foresees the world-wide scope of the Christian age. It forms an ideal prayer for the church today.
I. A missionary prayer for all nations. 67:1-2.
II. His charge to all nations to glorify God. 67:3-5.
III. His delight in God’s graciousness. 67:6-7.
Psalm 68, A triumphant psalm of praise and jubilation.
Author: David.
A victory song praising God.
Background: Thought to celebrate the transporting of the ark of God into Jerusalem. II Sam. 12-19. Messianic thoughts are seen in 68:18.
I. The response of saints and sinners before Jehovah. 68:1-3.
II. The call to worship Jehovah. 68:4.
III. Qualities of God that demand our worship. 68:5-6.
IV. His recollection of past victories of God for Israel. 68:7-14.
V. Other mountains envy Zion because of God’s presence. 68:15-20.
VI. God will protect and deliver his people. 68:20-23.
VII. The procession bringing the ark to the city. 68:24-27.
VIII. He prays for national strength against foreign nations. 68:28-31.
IX. He exhorts men to praise the mighty God. 68:32-34.
X. His benediction. 68:35.
Psalm 69, A lamentation of distress and imprecation upon his enemies.
Author: The uninspired scribal notes attribute it to David. Many think however, that Jeremiah wrote it. Compare Lam. 3:40-66.
A devotional petition.
Background: If Jeremiah is author, it was when he was cast into the dungeon, Jer. 38:lff.
I. His cry of despair. 69:1-4.
a. His awful predicament. 69:1-4.
b. His loyalty to God is the cause of his persecution. 69:5-12.
II. His urgent prayer for deliverance. 69:13-21.
a. His dependence on God confessed. 69:13-18.
b. He pours out his heart to God. 69:22-28.
III. His imprecation upon his foe. 69:22-28.
IV. His thanks to God for salvation 69:29-36.
Psalm 70, An urgent plea for speedy help against enemies.
Author: David.
A petition and an imprecation
Background: Unknown.
I. A prayer for help against his enemies. 70:1.
II. An imprecation upon his enemies. 70:2-3.
III. His prayer for the righteous. 70:4.
IV. The reasons for his request. 70:5.
Psalm 71, Prayer of an aged saint.
Author: Unknown.
A devotional petition.
Background: Unknown. Some think 71 and 70 were originally one.
I. A prayer for God’s favor and help. 71:1-4.
II. His testimony of past experiences. 71:5-8.
III. He pleads for help against his foes. 71:9-13.
IV. He rejoices in his hope. 71:14-16.
V. His prayer for help in old age. 71:17-18.
VI. His confidence in God. 71:19-21.
VII. His promise to God. 71:22-24.
Psalm 72, A prayer for the reign of a righteous king.
Author: According to the Masoretic notes, Solomon is author. Many scholars think David wrote this psalm for Solomon.
Messianic.
Background: Seems to apply initially to Solomon and ultimately to Christ.
I. A description of the king’s reign. 72:1-7.
II. His will be a universal reign. 72:8-11.
III. It will be a beneficent reign. 72:12-14.
IV. His will be a reign of prosperity. 72:15-17.
V. His doxology. 72:18-20.
Book III. Psalms of Asaph and others with balanced use of Jehovah and Elohim; speaks of God’s sanctuary and its importance to men.
Psalm 73, A contemplation on the prosperity of the wicked.
Author: Asaph.
A psalm of instruction.
Background: probes the question, who is the happy man, the godly or the wicked.
I. His problem stated. 73:1-3.
II. The apparent prosperity of the wicked. 73:4-9.
III. The arrogance of the wicked. 73:10-14.
IV. His contemplation. 73:15-17.
V. His confidence in God’s justice. 73:18-20.
VI. His shame 73:21-22.
VII. His resolution to trust and serve God. 73:23-28.
Psalm 74, A psalm of mourning when Israel was overrun by enemies.
Author: Asaph.
A mournful petition.
Background: Seems to have been written at the time of the conquest and persecution of Antiochus Epiphanies in the Maccabean period, 170-165 B.C. Notice 74:4-9.
I. His pitiful cry of complaint. 74:1-3.
II. He describes the destruction of the enemy. 74:12-17
III. His appeal for help. 74:10-11.
IV. He contemplates God’s past help, 74:12-17.
V. His prayer for deliverance, 74:18-23.
Psalm 75, On the certain triumph of the righteous and destruction of the wicked.
Author: Asaph.
A hymn of instruction.
Background: This was possibly written at the time of Assyria’s invasion in the days of Hezekiah.
I. He praises God, 75:1.
II. God’s response from heaven, 75:2-6.
III. He reminds the wicked of God’s judgment, 75:7-8.
IV. His concluding praise, 75:9-10.
Psalm 76, Praising the Victorious power of Jehovah.
Author: Asaph.
A victory song.
Background: Upon the defeat of the Assyrian army, II Kings 19:35ff.
I. Jehovah the God of the Hebrews, 76:4-6.
II. How God destroyed the enemy, 76:4-6.
III. He praises God for deliverance, 6:7-9.
IV. Conclusions to be drawn from God’s actions, 76:10-12.
Psalm 77, A song of lamentation and consolation in troublous times.
Author: Asaph.
A lamentation and instruction.
Background: the author derives great comfort from contemplating God’s past deliverances, during a time of hardship.
I. Trouble and sorrows recounted, 77:1-9.
a. His intention to seek God, 77:1-3.
b. His heavy heart, 77:4-6.
c. His searching questions, 77:7-9.
II. He tells how he overcame his sorrows, 77:10-20.
a. He meditated on God’s past blessings, 77:10-12.
b. He worshipped his God, 77:13-15.
c. He read the scriptures, 77:16-20.
Psalm 78, A historical recollection of God’s dealings with an ungrateful nation.
Author: Asaph.
A historical psalm.
Background: Some think it was written during Solomon’s reign to encourage people to be loyal to David’s dynasty.
I. An exhortation to hear and learn from history, 78:1-8.
II. Lessons from history given, 78:9-66.
a. Ephraim, and example of unfaithfulness, 78:9-11.
b. God’s gracious dealings in the exodus, 78:12-31.
c. Israel’s sins and judgments in the wilderness, 78:32-39.
d. Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness, 78:40-55.
e. Israel’s sins in Canaan, 78:56-66.
III. The ascendancy of David’s kingdom, 78:67-72.
Psalm 79, A funeral dirge for Jerusalem.
Author: Asaph.
A lamentation and imprecation.
Background: Likely written at the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians.
I. The situation described, 79:1-4.
II. His query, 79:5.
III. His imprecation, 79:13.
IV. His promise to praise God, 79:13.
Psalm 80, A prayer for God’s deliverance as in the Exodus.
Author: Asaph.
A petition for deliverance.
Background: It seems to be a prayer for the nation as they faced a powerful enemy.
I. His prayer for God’s blessing, 80:1-3.
II. A description of their sorrows, 80:4-7.
III. His parable describing Israel’s history, 80:8-16.
IV. His closing petition, 80:17-19.
Psalm 81, He praises God’s graciousness in dealing with a disobedient nation.
Author: Asaph.
A psalm of thanksgiving.
Background: Seems to be a song for the Passover celebration. It reflects a time of oppression. The author sees Israel’s waywardness as the cause of troubles.
I. His summons to remember the Passover, 81:1-5.
II. God’s message to his people, 81:6-12.
III. God’s conditional promise, 81:13-16.
Psalm 82, A song rebuking unjust judges.
Author: Asaph.
Didactic.
Background: Likely written when Jehoshaphat reformed the courts. II Chron. 19:4-7.
I. A warning to corrupt judges, 82:1-2.
II. An exhortation to judge with equity, 82:3-5.
III. Threatened judgments on dishonest judges, 82:6-7.
IV. Conclusion, 82:8.
Psalm 83, A prayer that God will confound the conspiracy of the enemies.
Author: Asaph.
An imprecation.
Background: Perhaps written when King Johoshaphat was attacked by a confederacy, II Chron. 20:1-30.
I. His urgent call for help, 83:1-5.
II. He names his enemies, 83:6-8.
III. His imprecation on them, 83:9-18.
Psalm 84, The emotions of a temple servant about his work.
Author: Sons of Korah.
Didactic.
Background: The Korahites were door-keepers and singers in the temple, II Chron. 20:19. The priests and Levites were divided into courses and rotated in the temple service, I Chron. 23:1-6.
I. His love for God’s house expressed, 84:1-3.
II. The blessings of those who are privileged to serve, 84:4-7.
III. His prayer of praise, 84:8-11.
IV. The blessings of trusting God, 84:12.
Psalm 85, Thanksgiving for return from captivity and a prayer of restoration of national strength.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A psalm of thanksgiving.
Background: When the Hebrews returned home after the Babylonian captivity.
See Neh. 1:3.
I. He acknowledges God’s former mercies, 85:1-3.
II. His petition for present help, 85:4-7.
III. God’s reply as given through the priest, 85:8-13.
Psalm 86, A prayer for mercy, a pledge of faithfulness.
Author: David.
A petition.
Background: Unknown. This psalm is a mosaic of quotes from other scriptures. It is called the Adonia Psalm since it uses that name for God 7 times.
I. His petition for heavenly assistance, 86:1-5.
II. His pledge based upon his confidence in God, 86:6-13.
III. His final request for deliverance, 86:14-17.
Psalm 87, The privileges of Zion’s children.
Author: Sons of Korah.
Didactic.
Background: Some see Messianic strains in this psalm
I. He celebrates the praises of Zion, 87:1-3.
II. He sees the future day when all nations will know Jehovah, 87:4-7.
Psalm 88, A pitiful cry of one near death.
Author: Sons of Korah.
A devotional petition.
Background: It seems the author has suffered throughout life and is night unto death. The saddest of all the psalms.
I. His petition to be heard, 88:1-2.
II. His misery is the reason for his prayer, 88:3-9.
III. His questions of despair, 88:10-13.
IV. His great loneliness, 88:14-18.
Psalm 89, A song about God’s covenant with David
Author: Ethan the Ezrahite.
Petition.
Background: The author appealed to God to remember his covenant with David and save the nation from affliction. II Sam. 7:12-17. Ps. 89 is considered one of the greatest poetic pieces of Hebrew literature.
I. His song of praise, 89:1-2.
II. God’s covenant with David, 89:3-4.
III. Praise to God for his manifold blessings, 89:5-14.
IV. The blessings of God’s children, 89:15-18.
V. The Davidic promises rehearsed, 89:19:27.
VI. The rule by which David’s heirs would be judged, 89:28-37.
VII. The present ruined condition of the nation, 89:38-45.
VIII. His plea for mercy and help, 89:46-51.
IX. Concluding Doxology, 89:52.
Book IV. This collection of Psalms is chiefly anonymous. A number of the Psalms deal with the history of the nation.
Psalm 90, A psalm on the frailty and brevity of human life and God’s eternal future.
Author: Moses. Rabbinic tradition assigns the ten anonymous psalms that follow to Moses. Moses also wrote the psalms of Ex. 15 and Deut. 32.
Didactic.
Background: The oldest psalm. A favorite of aged saints.
I. The eternity of God, 90:1-2.
II. The frailty of man contrasted with God, 90:3-12.
III. A prayer for God’s blessings, 90:13.
Psalm 91, A song about the security of God’s children.
Author: Unknown.
A liturgical psalm, i.e., one designed especially for temple worship. Note the change of speakers in the verses. This is called an antiphonal arrangement.
Background: Unknown.
I. The safety of a good man, 91:1-2 (First speaker)
II. How God delivers the righteous, 91:3-4 (Second speaker)
III. The victory of the righteous, 91:58-8 (First speaker responds)
IV. His confidence in God, 91:9-13 (Second speaker replies)
V. God’s message of protection, 91:14-16 (Not that God speaks here)
Psalm 92, A thanksgiving hymn for Jehovah’s goodness.
Author: Unknown.
A didactic song.
Background: In the ancient synagogue it was sung on Sabbath morning at the time of the morning sacrifice, Num. 38:9.
I. Praise to God for his goodness, 92:1-5.
II. The wicked shall fall, 92:609.
III. The happiness of the righteous, 92:10-15.
Psalm 93, Singing the majesty of Jehovah’s reign.
Author: Unknown.
A hymn of praise.
Background: A theocratic psalm praising God as king, Ps. 95-100 are also theocratic.
I. The Lord’s eternal reign, 93:1-2.
II. He rules over the wicked, 93:3-4.
III. God’s testimony and his house will stand forever, 93:5.
Psalm 94, A prayer to God for vengeance upon the wicked.
Author: Unknown.
Imprecatory.
Background: Unknown.
I. An appeal for vengeance upon the wicked, 94:1-2.
II. Their wickedness described, 94:3-7.
a. They are arrogant, 94:4.
b. They prey on the weak, 94:5-6.
c. They are irreligious, 94:7
III. His exhortation to sinners, 94:8-11.
IV. The consolation of the righteous, 94:12-15.
Psalm 95, A song praising God and warning sinners.
Author: Unknown.
A hymn of praise and instruction.
Background: A theocratic psalm. It was traditionally sung by the Hebrews on Friday evening to welcome the Sabbath.
I. A call to worship Jehovah, 95:1-2.
II. Reasons for worshipping God, 95:3-7a.
A. He created the world, 95:3-5.
B. He created man,95:6-7a.
III. A warning against stubbornness, 95:7b-11.
Psalm 96, A hymn of praise to Jehovah the righteous judge.
Author: Anonymous.
A song of praise.
Background: A theocratic psalm, predictive of Messiah’s age.
I. A charge to sing to the whole world about our God, 96:1-4.
II. The greatness of our God, 96:5-6.
III. Even Gentiles should praise our God, 96:7-9.
IV. The whole creation bears witness to Jehovah, 96:10-13.
Psalm 97, A hymn praising the almighty God.
Author: Unknown.
Didactic.
Background: A theocratic psalm.
I. Jehovah’s reign described, 97:1-2.
II. The effects of Jehovah’s reign on the earth, 97:3-6.
III. The influence of his reign on both heathen and saints, 97:7-9.
IV. His exhortation to the righteous, 97:10-12.
Psalm 98, A hymn of praise to the righteous judge of all.
Author: Anonymous.
Praise and instruction.
Background: A theocratic psalm.
I. Jehovah the subject of our praise, 98:1-3.
II. The manner of our praise, 98:4-6.
III. The extent of his praise is world-wide, 98:7-9.
Psalm 99, A song of praise to Jehovah’s holiness.
Author: Anonymous.
Praise and instruction.
Background: a theocratic psalm.
I. His declaration of the holiness of God, 99:1-3.
II. The character of God, a basis for praise, 99:4-5.
III. Great men of the past worshipped God and were blest, 99:6-9.
Psalm 100, A call to all nations to worship Jehovah.
Author: Unknown.
A hymn of praise.
Background: this psalm provides a closing doxology to the theocratic psalms.
I. The charge to worship Jehovah, 100:1-4.
II. Reasons why all should worship him, 110:5.
Psalm 101, Resolutions of a righteous king.
Author: David.
Devotional.
Background: Commitments made to God by David. This psalm was recited daily in the ancient synagogues.
I. Resolutions for his own private life, 101:1-4.
II. Resolutions for his kingdom, 101:5-8.
Psalm 102, A lamentation by a sufferer in captivity.
Author: Unknown.
A lamentation and petition.
Background: Seems to reflect the situation of the captives in Babylon.
I. His petition for a hearing, 102:1-2.
II. His condition described, 102:3-11.
III. His consolation in Jehovah, 102:12-22.
IV. His closing doxology, 102:23-28.
Psalm 103, Praise for God’s mercy in pardon.
Author: David.
Praise.
Background: Unknown.
I. A self-exhortation to praise Jehovah, 103:1-5.
II. Reasons why men should praise our God, 103:6-18.
III. Concluding charge to bless Jehovah, 103:19-22.
Psalm 104, praise to Jehovah for his creation and providence of nature.
Author: Unknown.
Praise and instruction.
Background: Unknown. The greatness of nature prompts this hymn of praise.
I. The charge to bless God, 104: 1a.
II. The creative works of God provide a basis for our praise, 104:1b-9.
III. His providential care demands our praise, 104:1032.
IV. His commitment to serve God Always, 104:33-35.
Psalm 105, Praise to God for his wonderful care of Israel.
Author: Anonymous.
A historical psalm.
Background: The poet traces the history of his nation from Abraham to the settlement in Canaan. The first 16 verses of the psalm are also found in I Chron. 16:22.
I. An exhortation to praise God for his covenant, 105:1-7
II. Praise God for his mercies to Israel, 105:8-45.
a. For his goodness to the Patriarchs, 105:9-15.
b. For his providential care of Joseph, 105:16-22.
c. For his care of Israel in Egypt, 105:23-25.
d. For his mighty works through Moses in Egypt, 105:26-37.
e. For his mighty work in the Exodus, 105:37-43.
f. For his faithfulness in giving them the promised land, 105:44-45.
Psalm 106, A song recounting Israel’s Ingratitude for God’s blessings.
Author: Unknown.
A historical psalm. Also styled a hallelujah psalm: note the closing line.
Background: He traces the history of Israel from the Exodus to the Babylonian captivity.
I. His exhortation to praise God, 106:1-3.
II. His prayer for himself and the nation, 106:4-5.
III. His confession of the nation’s sins, 106:6-46.
a. Their sins in Egypt, 106:6-12.
b. Their sins in the wilderness, 106:13:33.
c. Their sins in Canaan, 106:34-46.
IV. His conclusion, 106:47-48.
a. His prayer for salvation from captivity, 106:47.
b. His praise to Jehovah, 106:48.
Book V: Praises the word of God. Majority are anonymous, name Jehovah prominently used.
Psalm 107, A thanksgiving for deliverance and triumph over calamities of the captivity.
Author: Unknown.
A psalm of praise and thanksgiving.
Background: Thought to have been written for the dedication of the second temple.
I. His exhortation to the redeemed, 107:1.
II. Praise to God the Savior of his people, 107:2-32.
a. He saved the famished pilgrims, 107:2-32.
b. He saved those in prison, 107:1016.
c. He saved the penitent fools, 107:17-22.
d. He saved mariners, 107:23-32.
III. Praise to God for his power and providence for victory.
V. The use we should make of these facts, 107:42-43.
Psalm 108, A psalm praising God and entreating for victory.
Author: David.
Praise and petition.
Background: This seems to be David’s battle song. It is a composite of Ps. 57 and 60.
I. His resolution to praise God, 108:1-6.
II. God’s promises recalled, 108:7-9.
III. His confidence of victory over Edom, 108:10-13.
Psalm 109, A call for vengeance on his enemies.
Author: David.
An imprecatory psalm.
Background: This was perhaps written against Doeg or Ahithophel. The most bitter of all the scriptures.
I. His plea for help against his enemies, 109:1-5.
II. His imprecation, 109:6-20.
III. His supplication for mercy, 109:21-29.
IV. His thanksgiving for expected blessings, 109:30-31.
Psalm 110, A prophetic psalm of the coming messiah.
Author: David.
Messianic.
Background: Jehovah’s promise to David that Messiah would spring from his family, II Sam.:1-7. Four of its verses have New Testament fulfillment.
Vs. 1 - Acts 2:34-35.
Vs. 2b - I Cor.15:25.
Vs. 4 - Heb. 6:20; 7:15-17.
Vs. 5 - 6 - Matt 25:31- 32.
I. The Messiah’s reign described, 110:1-3.
II. The divine oath of his eternal priesthood, 110:4.
III. His victories and judgment, 110:5-7.
Psalm 111, Praise to Jehovah for manifold works.
Author: Unknown.
A song of exhortation and praise, arranged alphabetically. Hallelujah.
Background: Ps. 111 and 112 seem to be by the same author as both are framed on the same model. Both are alphabetical, with 22 lines in the Hebrew.
I. His resolution to praise God, 111:1.
II. The motivation to that praise, 111:2-8.
III. The application, 111:10.
Psalm 112, The blessings of the God-fearing man.
Author: Unknown.
Didactic, alphabetical, Hallelujah.
Background: A companion psalm to 111.
I. His thesis, 112:1.
II. The promised blessings of the righteous, 112:2-9.
III. The state of the wicked contrasted, 112:10.
Psalm 113, Praise to God who exalts the humble.
Author: Unknown.
A psalm of praise. A hallelujah psalm.
Background: Psalms 113-118 form the Hallel song at Passover by the Hebrews.
113 and 114 were sung before the meal, 115 through 118 was sung afterwards.
I. His exhortation to praise Jehovah, 113;1.
II. When and where to praise him, 113:2-3.
III. Reasons for our praise, 113:4-9.
Psalm 114, A psalm celebrating Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.
Author: Anonymous.
Didactic.
Background: Designed to encourage the Hebrews by remembering God’s past helps. Part of the Hallel.
I. God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt, 114:1-4.
II. The poet’s question, 114:5-6.
III. His charge to reverence God, 114:7-8.
Psalm 115, A song praising Jehovah’s superiority to Idols.
Author: Unknown.
A psalm of praise, a hallelujah psalm.
Background: Likely written after the Babylonian captivity. Part of the Hallel sung at Passover.
I. Introduction: Give glory to Jehovah, 115:1.
II. His thesis: God reigns in Heaven, 115:2-3.
III. The idol gods described, 115:4-8.
IV. The benefits of serving the true God, 115:9-16.
V. Their oath of loyalty to Jehovah, 115:17-18.
Psalm 116, A song thanking God for deliverance from death.
Author: Unknown.
A thanksgiving hymn and a hallelujah psalm.
Background: Sung during Passover as part of the Hallel.
I. His profession of love for Jehovah, 116:1-2.
II. He recalls his deliverance from death, 116:3-8.
III. His pledge to serve God always, 116:9-19.
Psalm 117, A summons to the nations to worship Jehovah.
Author: Unknown.
Praise, a hallelujah psalm.
Background: This psalm was used for the opening and closing of temple worship. It is the shortest chapter of the Bible, also the middle chapter. Its universal nature looks forward to the Christian age.
I. The charge to praise Jehovah, 117:1.
II. Reasons for our praise, 117:2.
Psalm 118,A song of thanksgiving for the Lord’s goodness and salvation.
Author: Unknown.
Thanksgiving and praise.
Background: A part of the Hallel was used at the Passover. This is likely the hymn that Christ and the apostles sung before leaving the upper room. Matt. 26:30. Verses 22-26 are prophetic of Christ. Psalm 118 was a song of defiance sung by early Christians when pressured to participate in Emperor worship. The psalm describes worshippers going to the temple to offer animal animal sacrifices, vs. 19-27.
I. The exhortation to praise God, 118:1-4.
II. He relates his experiences under God’s hand, 118:5-18.
III. The sacrificial service of thanksgiving for God’s blessings, 118:19-29.
Psalm 119, A eulogy to the Holy Scriptures.
Author: Unknown. Ancient Hebrews ascribe it to Ezra.
An alphabetic psalm. There are 22 stanzas of 8 verses each, arranged by the Hebrew alphabet. All the verses of each stanza begin with the same letter in the Original.
Background: Seems to have been designed as a manual for meditation and personal spiritual development.
All verse save four mention God’s word.
The longest chapter in the Bible.
I. The joy of walking in God’s precepts, 119:118.
II. A resolution to keep God’s law, 119:916.
III. Faithfulness to the law affords strength in persecution, 119:17-24.
IV. In affliction he seeks a deeper insight into God’s word, 119:25-32.
V. A prayer for grace and courage, 119:33-40.
VI. A prayer for grace and courage, 119:41-48.
VII. God’s word sustains one in affliction, 119:49-56.
VIII. He keeps God’s precepts and fellowships God’s people, 119:57-64.
IX. God’s goodness drives him to the word, 119:65-72.
X. God’s deliverance of his servant comforts others, 119:73-80.
XI. In persecution he finds hope in God’s word, 119:81-88.
XII. He praises the immutability of God’s word, 119:89-96.
XIII. The law of God imparts wisdom, 119:97-104.
XIV. He vows his fidelity to God’s word, 119:105-112.
XV. He prays for strength to be loyal to God’s word, 119:113-120.
XVI. He commits his cause to God and clings to his word, 119:121-128.
XVII. The blessings of God’s word, 119:129-136.
XVIII. God’s law commands the deepest reverence, 119:137-144.
XIX. The word guides us in trouble, 119:145-152.
XX. Surrounded by his enemies, he looks to God to revive him, 119:153-160.
XXI. He has both loved and kept God’s law, 119:161-168.
XXII. He prays for insight into God’s word, 119:169-176.
Note: Psalms 120-134 are called “songs of ascent.” This meaning of the expression is obscure. It likely denotes songs sung when pilgrims went up to Jerusalem to worship.
Psalm 120, A petition for deliverance from the wicked.
Author: Unknown.
A song of complaint and petition.
Background: Written by one under severe attack by treacherous enemies. A song of ascents.
I. His prayer for deliverance, 120:1-2.
II. His vindictive against liars, 120:3-4.
III. His complaint about his circumstances, 120:5-7.
Psalm 121, He praises God for his providential help.
Author: Unknown.
A didactic song.
Background: A song of ascents.
I. His faith and trust in Jehovah, 121:1-2.
II. The safety of all that fear God, 121:3-8.
Psalm 122, A prayer for the peace of Jerusalem.
Author: David.
Didactic.
Background: a song of ascents.
I. His joy in worship, 122:1-2.
II. His love for Jerusalem, 122:3-5.
III. His exhortation to pray from Jerusalem, 122:6-7.
IV. His vow to pray for her, 1222:8-9.
Psalm 123, A fervent plea for divine help.
Author: Unknown.
A petition.
Background: Seems to have been written by an exile in Babylon, or in Nehemiah’s day. A song of ascents.
I. His faith declared, 123:1-2.
II. His plea for mercy, 123:3-4.
Psalm 124, He praise God for rescue from near disaster.
Author: The masseretic notes attribute this to David. Some scholars would associate it with the Hebrew’s deliverance from haman in Esther’s day.
Thanksgiving praise.
Background: It may describe how God saved Israel from annihilation through Ester. A song of ascents.
I. He acknowledges the divine deliverance, 124:1-3.
II. The extent of their dangers, 124:4-5.
III. The closeness of their escape, 124:6-7.
IV. The lesson to remember, 124:8.
Psalm 125, A hymn celebrating Jehovah’s protection.
Author: Unknown.
Didactic.
Background: Likely based on the oppositions faced by Nehemiah in rebuilding Jerusalem. Neh. 6:10-18. A song of ascents.
I. The safety and security of those who trust in Jehovah, 125:1-2.
II. His faith in deliverance, 125:3.
III. His prayer for the righteous, 125: 4.
IV. The destiny of the wicked, 125:5.
Psalm 126, A song of thanksgiving for the restoration from captivity.
Author: Unknown.
Thanksgiving.
Background: Celebrates the return of Israel from Babylonian captivity. II Chron. 36:22. A song of ascents.
I. He celebrates their deliverance by Cyrus, 126:1-3.
II. He prays for the other captives not yet freed, 126:4-6.
Psalm 127, A song about Jehovah the Provider and Protector of his people.
Author: Solomon.
Didactic.
Background: A song of ascents.
I. The importance of God’s blessings in the home and state, 127:1-2.
II. Children are a divine gift and blessing, 127:3-5.
Psalm 128, The domestic blessing of those that fear Jehovah.
Author: Unknown.
Background: This theme is really dealt with in the psalms. A song of ascents.
I. His beatitude, 128:1.
II. The domestic rewards for faithfulness, 128:2-4.
III. His prayer for his fellow-citizens 128:5-6.
Psalm 129, A prayer for the defeat of Israel’s enemies.
Author: Anonymous.
Imprecatory.
Background: The author reflects on past afflictions of the nation and then utters an imprecation against the enemy. A song of ascents. This psalm is very similar to Ps. 124.
I. The unsuccessful malice of their enemies, 129:1-4.
II. Zion’s enemies shall fail, 129:5-8.
Psalm 130, The cry of a soul overwhelmed with a burden of sin.
Author: Unknown.
A penitential psalm.
Background: The author feels a heavy burden of sin and pleads for mercy. This psalm reflects the grace of the New Testament gospel.
I. His plea for an audience, 130:1-2.
II. He sees grace as his only hope, 130:3-4.
III. He expresses patience and hope, 130:5-6.
IV. His exhortation to God’s people, 130:7-8.
Psalm 131, A song of humble trust in Jehovah.
Author: David.
Devotional.
Background: A song of ascents.
I. He confesses his humility, 131:1.
II. His confidence in God, 131:2.
III. His exhortation, 131:3.
Psalm 132, A prayer for God’s blessings on the sanctuary.
Author: Unknown.
A petition for divine help.
Background: Likely written at the time of the dedication of Solomon’s Temple, II Chron. 5 and 6.
I. A prayer reminiscing David’s pledge to build the temple, 132:1-5.
II. He briefly traces the history of the Ark, 132:11-18.
III. God responds reaffirming his pledge to David, 132:11-18.
Psalm 133, A song praising the beauty of brotherly unity.
Author: David.
Didactic.
Background: A song of ascents.
I. A call to consider the virtues of unity, 133:1.
II. He poetically describes brotherly unity, 133:2-3.
A. Religious beauty, 133:2.
B. The beauty of nature, 133:3.
Psalm 134, A psalm greeting the temple night watchers.
Author: Unknown.
Didactic.
Background: Seems to have been sung to greet the priest and Levites who did night service at the temple. A song of ascents.
I. The exhortation of the priests and Levites, 134:1-2.
II. The priests bless the people, 134:3.
Psalm 135, A psalm praising Jehovah and ridiculing Idols.
Author: Unknown.
Praise and instruction.
Background: This psalm is a composite of several other scriptures. It is a hallelujah psalm.
I. A call to the priests to praise God, 135:1-2.
II. Motives for praising God, 135:3-14.
III. Jehovah contrasted with the idols, 135:15-18.
IV. His exhortation to all Israel to praise God, 135:19-21.
Psalm 136, Thanksgiving for Jehovah’s eternal loving kindness.
Author: Anonymous.
A historical psalm, to be sung antiphonally.
Background: Sung at the opening of the Passover. It traces the work of God form creation to Canaan.
I. An exhortation to praise God, 136:1-3.
II. A declaration of God’s goodness and majesty, 136:4-9.
III. A praise to God for his providential care of Israel, 136:10-25.
IV. Concluding praise, 136:26.
Psalm 137, A sorrowful song of the exiles in Babylon.
Author: Unknown.
A devotional psalm and imprecation.
Background: Written by a returned exile from the Babylonian captivity.
I. His reminiscence of the captivity, 137:1-3.
II. Their loyalty to God and their nation, 137:4-6.
III. His imprecation, 137:7-9.
Psalm 138, A song of thanksgiving for divine favor.
Author: David.
A thanksgiving hymn.
Background: God’s promise to bless David’s dynasty and predictive of Messiah’s reign, II Sam. 7.
I. His vow of thanksgiving, 138:1-3.
II. His prophecy of the Christian Age, 138:4-6.
III. His confidence in God’s salvation, 138:7-8.
Psalm 139, A song praising the all wise, all powerful God.
Author: David.
A didactic song of praise.
Background: A beautiful poetic description of developing life in the womb.
I. God’s great knowledge praised, 139:1-6.
II. God’s omnipresence praised, 139:7-12.
III. God’s creative power praised, 139:13-18.
IV. His abhorrence of the wicked, 139: 19-24.
Psalm 140, A prayer for protection against evil men.
Author: David.
A petition and imprecation.
Background: When David was persecuted by Saul.
I. He pleads for deliverance from the wicked, 140:1-5.
II. He relates his positive prayer, 140:6-8.
III. His imprecation, 140:9-10.
IV. His moral or proverb, 140:11-13.
Psalm 141, A prayer for protection.
Author: David.
A devotional petition
Background: Seems to relate to Absalom’s rebellion.
I. His prayer, 141:1-2.
II. His request for divine help in doing right, 141:3-4.
III. His response to the correction of the righteous, 141:5.
IV. His faith in the outcome, 141:6.
V. He describes the nation’s condition, 141:7.
VI. His plea for heavenly protection, 141:8-10.
Psalm 142, A prayer for deliverance in troublous times.
Author: David.
A petition and instruction.
Background: When persecuted by Saul, I Sam. 22:1; 24:3.
I. He describes his conduct when in trouble, 142:1-2.
II. He declares his predicament , 142:3-4.
III. His prayer for deliverance from prison, 142:5-7.
Psalm 143, A penitent cry for help.
Author: David.
A petition and devotion. A penitential psalm.
Background: Possibly when pursued by Absalom.
I. His petition for a hearing, 143:1-6.
a. His problem, 143:3.
b. His state of mind, 143:4.
II. His request for heavenly mercies, 143:711
III. The basis for his request, 143:12.
Psalm 144, A battle hymn.
Author: David.
Prayer and praise.
Background: A hymn requesting God’s providential help in a war. This psalm is a composite of other psalms.
I. His thanksgiving, 144:1-4.
II. His request for divine intervention, 144:5-11.
III. A discourse on happiness, 144:12-15.
Psalm 145, A hymn of praise for God’s goodness..
Author: David.
A hymn of praise and adoration.
Background: Arranged alphabetically. Called the “tehillah Psalm,” i.e…, a hymn of praise. The last of David’s psalms.
I. His vow to God, 145:1-2.
II. He celebrates God’s greatness, 145:3-9.
III. God’s works praise him, 145:10-13.
IV. God’s mercies to men praise him, 145:14-20.
V. The author’s concluding praise, 145:21.
Psalm 146, Praise to Jehovah for his abundant help.
Author: Unknown.
A hallelujah psalm, praising the Lord.
Background: This and those following are thought to be the work of those who returned from Babylonian captivity.
I. His resolution to praise Jehovah, 146:1-2.
II. A warning against trusting men, 146:3-4.
III. A beatitude, 146:5-7.
IV. Reasons for the foregoing blessings, 146:8-10.
Psalm 147, Praise to God for the restoration of Jerusalem.
Author: Unknown.
A hallelujah psalm.
Background: Reflects the joy of the returned exiles when Jerusalem was rebuilt. See Neh. 12:27-42.
I. He praises God for his goodness to Jerusalem, 147:1-3.
II. God’s judgments re sure, 147:4-6.
III. He extols God’s providential care of those who fear him, 147:7-11.
IV. He praises God for protecting Jerusalem, 147:12-14.
V. He extols God’s providence in nature, 147:15-18.
VI. He glories in God’s word, 147:19-20.
Psalm 148, A psalm urging all creation to praise God.
Author: Unknown.
A hallelujah psalm.
Background: The epitome of Hebrew praise. Our hymn, Let Them Praises Give Jehovah is an adaptation of this psalm.
I. The praise of God in heaven, 148:1-6.
a. Reasons for that praise, 148:5-6.
II. The praise of God upon the earth, 148:7-14.
a. Reasons for the praise, 148:13-14.
Psalm 149, The whole nation charged to praise God.
Author: Unknown.
A hallelujah psalm.
Background: This appears to be a victory song. A misuse of this psalm by Casper Sciopius in his “Clarion of the Sacred War” inflamed the Catholic princes of Europe to launch the Thirty Year’s War. Thomas Munster used it to launch the Peasant’s War in Germany.
I. Praise Jehovah for past blessings, 149:1-4.
II. Praise God for future victories, 149:5-9.
Psalm 150, The concluding praise of the Book.
Author: Unknown.
A hallelujah psalm.
Background: As each of the previous books of Psalms ended with an appropriate benediction, so this psalm brings the entire series to an end. The Rabbis taught that there were thirteen attributes of God therefore the thirteen praises of this psalm.
I. Praise God with the voice, 150:3-5.
II. Praise God with musical instruments, 150:3-5.
III. Let all of creation praise God, 150:6.
LESSONS TO REMEMBER:
1. May we not only admire the beauty, but acknowledge the power of sacred poetry and songs.
2. May we also worship Jehovah in the beauty of holiness.
3. Let us strive to capture in our lives to imitate fellowship with God which David knew.
4. Remember to utilize these great hymns as food for your soul and especially in hardships and sorrows.
5. “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, loud and clear to all the world.” 107:2.
6. May we always be found praising God as was David.
7. Let us always give glory to God for his omnipotence.
8. Never neglect this gold mine of precious truth in your preaching, teaching, and devotional life.
9. Although David could call for the bitterest curses upon his enemies, we live under the law of Christ which teaches us to do our enemies good. Rom. 12:17-21.
10. While the Hebrew could praise God acceptably with harp, pipe and symbol, our New Covenant only authorizes us to sing. Eph. 5:19.
11. May we always love and cherish the word of God like the writer of Psalm 119 did.
12. Let us love the Lord’s church with that degree of devotion expressed in Psalm 84.
13. In our old age, may we remain loyal to our God as the psalmist described himself in Psalm 71.
14. How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. Psalm 133:1.
15. Except Jehovah build the house they labor in vain who build it. Ps. 127:1.
16. Children are a heritage of Jehovah; and the fruit of the womb is his reward, Ps. 127:3.
BIBLIOGRAPH
Alexander, Joseph A. The Psalms, Translated and Explained, Grand Rapids; Baker Book House, Reprinted 1975.
Anderson, Bernhard. Out of the Depths, New York; Board of Missions, United Methodist Church, 1970.
Anderson, Bernhard. Understanding the Old Testament, Englewood Cliffs, N.J.: Prentice Hall, Inc., 1957.
Angus, Joseph. The Bible Handbook, Revised, Grand Rapids; Zondervan Pub. House, 1952.
Archer, G. L., Jr. A Survey of Old Testament Introduction, Chicago: Moody Press, 1970.
Chase, Mary Ellen. The Psalms for the Common Read, New York: W. W. Norton and Co., Inc., 1962.
Clarke, Adam. A Commentary and Critical Notes, Nashville: Abingdon-Cokesbury, no date.
Deal, William S. Baker’s Pictorial Introduction to the Bible, Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1967.
Ewald, G. Heinrich A. Commentary on the Psalms, London: (translated by E. Johnson), Williams and Norgate, 1880.
Hailey, Homer. Class notes on Psalms, privately published, no date.
Hayes, John H. Introduction to the Bible, Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1971.
Horne, George. Hornes Complete Works, New York: Stanford and Swords, 1853.
Lee, Robert. The Outlined Bible, London: Pickering and Inglis Ltd., no date.
Leupold, H. C. Exposition of the Psalms, Grand Rapids: Baker Book house, 1961.
Lewis, C. S. Reflections on the Psalms, New York: Harcourt, Brace and Co., 1958.
Mears, Henrietta C. What the Bible Is All About, U.S.A.: Gospel Light Pub., 1966.
Morgan, G. Campbell. The Analyzed Bible, Westwood, N.J.: Fleming H. Revell Co., 1964.
Perowne, J.J. Stewart. The Book of Psalms, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Pub. House, 1966.
Prothero, Rowland. The Psalms in Human Life, New York: Thomas Nelson and Sons, 1903.
Purkiser, W.T., editor. Exploring the Old Testament, Kansas City, Mo.: Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, 1955.
Robinson, H. Wheeler. The Old Testament, Its making and meaning, Nashville, Tenn.: Cokesbury Press, 1937.
Sampey, John R. Syllabus for Old Testament Study, Nashville, Tenn.: Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, 1924.
Saxe, Grace. Studies in the Book of Psalms, Chicago: The Bible Institute Colportage Association, no date.
Scott, R. B. Y. The Psalms as Christian Praise, New York: Association Press, 1938.
Snaith, Norman. The Seven Psalms, London: The Epworth press, 1964.
Spurgeon, C. H. The Treasury of David, New York: I. K. Funk and Co., 1882.
Weber, Otto. Grand Plan of the Bible (translated by Harold Knight), Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1959.
Yates, Kyle M. Studies in Psalms, Nashville, Tenn.: Broadman Press, 1953.
Yoder, S. C. Poetry of the Old Testament, Scottdale, Pa.: Herald Press, 1948.
Young, Edward J. An Introduction to the Old Testament, Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1965.