PSALMS AND THE CHRISTIAN

PSALMS AND THE CHRISTIAN

FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNESS

INTRODUCTION

Paul wrote Timothy that the scriptures were profitable for many things, one of which is that the man of God may receive “instruction in righteousness”- II Timothy 3:16-17.  This is especially true of the book of Psalms, for many of the psalms are “didactic” in nature, in other words, they are designed to teach and instruct.  In this lesson, we shall see how some of the Psalms are suitable for instructing us today in principles of righteousness and godly living.

I. THE USE OF “DIDACTIC” PSALMS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

    A.  Jesus based many of his teachings upon the Psalms. 

        1. Compare Matthew 5:5 with Psalm 37:11.

        2. Compare Matthew 5:8 with Psalm 24:3-4.

        3. Compare Matthew 16:27 with Psalm 62:12.

    B.  The New Testament writers often appealed to the Psalms in their exhortations.

        1.  Psalm 118:6 is quoted in Hebrews 13:5-6.

        2.  Psalm 138:6 is quoted in James 4:6-7.

        3.  Psalm 34:12-16 is quoted in I Peter 3:8-12.

    C.  A couple of observations...

        1.  Many of the Psalms possess basic principles of righteousness which still hold true today, even though we may be living under the new covenant of Jesus Christ. 

        2.  Therefore, it is appropriate for the Christian to study the Psalms to receive instruction in righteousness which can be applied in our service to Christ and God today.

II. EXAMPLES OF PSALMS WHICH INSTRUCT US IN PRINCIPLES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

    A.  Psalm 32:1-8:  This Psalm was written by David after he was forgiven of his sins surrounding his affair with Bathsheba.  Here we learn the importance of confessing our sins and the blessedness we experience when God forgives our sins.

    B.  Psalm 52:1-9: This Psalm was written when David had been betrayed to Saul by Doeg the Edomite.  It teaches the futility of boastful wickedness and the peace of those who live godly lives.

    C.  Psalm 37:1-40: Another psalm written by David, it was one upon which Jesus based his beatitude, “Blessed are the meek...”  It instructs us as to the security of those who humbly trust in the Lord, contrasted with the insecurity of the wicked.

CONCLUSION

There is much to find in the Psalms concerning principles of godly and righteous living.  From instructions to the young man trying to remain pure before God (Psalm 119:9-11) , to wisdom for those wanting to grow old gracefully (Psalm 71:17-18).  Indeed there is something for everyone!  So, study the Psalms, meditate upon them, and they will help lead you down the paths of righteousness as you serve the Lord. 

It is my prayer that this study may have encouraged you to do just that!