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PSALMS

Leader’s Book
Leaders and Members’ Basics
www.TheLAMBofCA.com
Leadership Training Materials for Central Asia
See page 47 for the full curriculum

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---TABLE OF CONTENTS---

Introductory Note.......................................................................................................................................................5
LESSON ONE ...........................................................................................................................................................6
A SKETCH OF PSALMS:..................................................................................................................................6
Preparation for Study - A Literary Look at Psalms: .......................................................................................7
Keys to the Books of Psalms: .......................................................................................................................8
No. 1 Kingdom Key: God’s Purpose in View...........................................................................................8
No. 2 Godly Key: Names of God..............................................................................................................8
Psalm Types:......................................................................................................................................................9
Psalm Type No. 1 - Wisdom and Teaching Psalms: .................................9
Background for Psalm 1:........................................................................................................................9
Background for Psalm 119:..................................................................................................................11
Psalm Type No. 2 - Nature and Creation (Psalms 8, 19, 33, 65, 104)............................................15
Background for Psalm 19.....................................................................................................................15
LESSON 2..............................................................................................................................................................17
No. 3 Master Key: God’s Son Revealed ...............................................................................................17
No. 4 Key Word: Worship .......................................................................................................................18
Psalm Types .....................................................................................................................................................18
Psalm Type No. 3 - Individual Lament of Repentance: ......................................................................18
Background for Psalm 51.....................................................................................................................18
Psalm Type No. 4 - Individual Thanksgiving Psalms:..........................................................................20
Background for Psalm 32.....................................................................................................................20
Background for Psalm 34.....................................................................................................................21
LESSON 3..............................................................................................................................................................23
No. 5 Key Verses: Psalm 19:14; 145:21...............................................................................................23
No. 6 - Power Key: God’s Spirit at Work................................................................................................23
Psalm Types:....................................................................................................................................................24
Psalm Type 5 - Historical Psalms: ....................................................................................................24
Background for Psalm 136...................................................................................................................24
Psalm Type No - 6, Supplication:............................................................................................................24
Background for Psalm 86:....................................................................................................................24
LESSON 4..............................................................................................................................................................26
Key Authors:...............................................................................................................................................26
No. 8 Key Themes: Sin and Righteousness ........................................................................................27
Psalm Types:....................................................................................................................................................27
Psalm Type No. 7 - Cursing: .........................................................................................27
Background for Psalm 10.....................................................................................................................28
Psalm Type No. 8 - The Pilgrimage Psalms: ........................................................................................29
Background for Psalm 133...................................................................................................................29
Lesson 5 ...................................................................................................................................................................30
Key No. 9 - Key Dates ..............................................................................................................................30
Key No. 10 - Key Doxologies: .................................................................................................................30
Psalm Types .....................................................................................................................................................31
Psalm Type No. 9 - Messianic Psalms (Psalms 22, 23, 24)..............................................................31
Background for Psalm 22.....................................................................................................................32
Background for Psalm 23.....................................................................................................................32
Background for Psalm 24:....................................................................................................................33
Psalms Type No. 10 - Praise Psalms:...................................................................................................35
Background for Psalm 150:..................................................................................................................35
Supplementary Material..........................................................................................................................................37
A SKETCH OF PSALMS: ..............................................................................................................................38
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Appendix A......................................................................................................................................................39
Appendix B ......................................................................................................................................................40
Appendix C ......................................................................................................................................................41
Appendix D......................................................................................................................................................42
Appendix E ......................................................................................................................................................43
Appendix F ......................................................................................................................................................44
Appendix G......................................................................................................................................................45
Appendix H......................................................................................................................................................46
Psalm Numbering System for Russian and Kazakh.........................................................................................47
For Further Study and Training in Righteousness ....................................................48

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Introductory Note

Due to the lack of time before publishing this book on Psalms, this manuscript has been written
with the verses following the English version. Therefore, the verse numbering does not start with the
titles of individual Psalms as in the Russian and Kazah versions. However, the Psalm chapter numbers
are written in keeping with the Russian and Kazak versions. Therefore, you will need to add one verse
to the scripture reference you are looking for when the title of the psalm appears in parentheses as
verse number one.

For example: Psalm 3:4 becomes Psalm 3:5. Psalm 3:1 is a historical title, denoting when David
fled from Absalom.

The titles of individual psalms are usually not assigned a verse number in many translations, giving
the impression that they are separate from other verses.

In the Hebrew Bible the titles are usually numbered as the first verse. The titles are either an
original part of the psalms, or at least from an extremely early tradition.

The titles may be divided into five basic types: authorship, historical, musical, literary type and
instructions for use in worship.

In the future there will be a second printing of this book and the verses will be printed according to
the Russian and Kazak versions.

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LESSON ONE

A SKETCH OF PSALMS:

Vol. 1, #1 - 41
Writer…………… David
Theme division…. “ Creation, Man, Sin
and Redemption”
Compiler……….. King David
Date…………….. (1020-970 BC)

Vol. 2, #42 - 72
David and Korah
“Deliverance and
Redemption”
King Hezekiah
(970-610 BC)

Vol. 3, #73 - 89
Asaph and descendants
“Tabernacle and God’s
holiness”
King Josiah
(970-610 BC)

Vol. 4., #90 - 106


David and others
“Wilderness and
Wanderings”
Ezra the Priest
(609-430 BC)

Vol. 5, #107-150
David and others
“Scripture, Thanksgiving
and Praise”
Nehemiah the Governor
and Leader
(609 – 430 BC)

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For Teacher:
1. Copy the “Sketch of Psalms” chart and give out.
2. Copy and give out Appendix A.
3. On the “Sketch of Psalms” chart:
Discuss the Keys – these are the main points in understanding Psalms.
Discuss the Stones - These are the various categories of Psalms.
You will discuss 2 Keys and 2 Stones each day.
4. Discuss the divisions of the book using the “Sketch of Psalms” chart and
especially Appendix A.

Background:
The Hebrew title of this book, Sepher Tehillim, means “Book of Praises.” The Greek titles,
Psalmoi or Psalterion, stand for a poem that is to be accompanied by a stringed instrument. However,
the Psalter contains more than temple songs and hymns of praise. It includes laments, personal and
national prayers, petitions, meditations, instructions, historical anthems, and acrostic (alphabet) tributes
to noble themes. We will discuss these types throughout our study of Psalms.

The Book of Psalms is not arranged in a haphazard sort of way. The Book of Psalms is
arranged in an orderly manner. In fact, some Bible scholars have said that the Book of Psalms is
arranged and corresponds to the Pentateuch of Moses. There are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus,
Numbers, and Deuteronomy sections coinciding with each of the volumes.

Each book is a collection of several ancient groups of songs and poems. The psalmists have
placed a fitting doxology at the end of each book.

Book One (Pss. 1–41) emphasizes Creation, Man, Sin and Redemption. Most of the songs
are attributed to David. Compiled before his death, the collection is largely personal psalms that reflect
David’s own experiences.

Book Two (Pss. 42–72) emphasizes Deliverance and Redemption. These were probably
added in the days of Solomon. They are a collection of songs by, of, or for the sons of Korah, Asaph,
David, and Solomon, with four anonymously written.

Book Three (Pss. 73–89) speaks of the Tabernacle and God’s Holiness. It is marked by a large
collection of Asaph’s songs. He was King David’s choirmaster (1 Chr. 16:4–7).

Most psalms in Book Four (Pss. 90–106) tell of the Wilderness and the Wanderings of the
Jews. These are without given authors, although Moses, David, and Solomon are contributors. These
were collected in the days of the Exile.

More of David’s songs are found in Book Five (Pss. 107–150), the Deuteronomy section. The
emphasis is the Word of God, Thanksgiving and Praise. The final book is greatly used in worship and
probably was organized around the time of Ezra the scribe after the return from Babylonian captivity.

The series of songs called the Egyptian Hallel (Pss. 111–118) is found here as well. The final
songs (Pss. 146–150) in Book Five are known as the “Great Hallel” series. Each song begins and ends
with the Hebrew exclamation of praise, “Hallelujah!”

Questions:
1. How many volumes (books) are in the book of Psalms?
2. Who are the main writers of Psalms?
3. How is Psalms divided by themes?
4. When was first volume written and when was the last volume written?

Preparation for Study - A Literary Look at Psalms:

We need to be acquainted with the various literary styles used by the authors of poetic writing.
Much of the writing style came from the Caananite influence as Abraham, Issac, Moses, and David
lived in the Caananite lands. Other Psalms (126, 137) were influenced by the Babylonian captivity.
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Some of the main styles are:

Look up and discuss:


1. Simile: comparison of two things, usually using words “as” or “like” (“He is like a tree,” Psalm 1:3).
Ps. 117:8; Ps. 131:2; Ps. 128:3; Ps. 127:4; Ps. 133; Ps. 52:8

2. Metaphor: comparison of two things without using the words “like” or “as” (“You are my rock and
my fortress”). Ps. 84:11, Ps. 3:3; Ps. 28:7; Ps. 18:2; Ps. 42:9; John 6:35; John 8:12; John 10:9;
John 15:5

3. Hyperbole: exaggeration for effect (“make my bed swim/dissolve my couch with tears” -
Ps. 6:6) Ps. 119:20; Ps. 78:27; Ps. 73:6,7; Ps. 69:1, 2, 4, 9

4. Personification: applying personal traits (characteristics) to inanimate objects. (“all my bones


will say, Lord who is like you” - Ps. 35:10) Gen. 4:10, Joshua 24:27, Job 31:7, Ps. 7:14, Eph. 1:18,
Ps. 77:6

5. Apostrophe: addressing (speaking to) inanimate (non-living) things. (“Why is it, O sea, that you
fled, O Jordan, that you turned back? Ps. 114:5) Ps. 87:3, Ps. 52:2, Ps. 24:7,9; I Cor. 15:55, Hosea
13:14

Keys to the Books of Psalms:

No. 1 Kingdom Key: God’s Purpose in View


The Book of Psalms reveals the priority and power of worship as its central theme. Praise and
worship are worthy of the Lord solely because of His majesty.
The Psalms reveal praise as an essential means by which the believer realizes fullest dignity and
destiny.
• Psalmic Worship Is Founded on the Rule of God (Psalm 95)
• Psalmic Worship Shows Praise as the Role of Man (Psalm 150)

No. 2 Godly Key: Names of God


God Himself is the key Person of the Psalms. Without Him there could be no song at all. As we look at
the Psalms, God is identified by His various Hebrew names: El, Adonai, Jehovah, and Shaddai.

NAMES OF GOD IN THE PSALMS:

BOOK V
HEBREW BOOK I BOOK II BOOK III BOOK IV 107 –
NAME TRANSLATION MEANING 1 – 41 42 - 72 73 - 89 90 – 106 150
Almighty
EL God One 67 207 85 32 41
Sovereign
Adonai Lord Lord 13 19 15 2 12
Covenant
Maker and
Jehovah LORD Fulfiller 277 31 43 101 226
Provider
Shaddai Almighty Blesser 1 1 1

Questions:
1. Which name of God is used most often in Psalms? Why?
2. Which name of God is used least? Why?
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Psalm Types:
Psalm Type No. 1 - Wisdom and Teaching Psalms:
The reader is exhorted and instructed in the way of righteousness (see Psalm 1, 37, 119)

Background for Psalm 1:

For The Teacher:

Prepare Appendix B and hand out to students. Have them fill in the blanks as you discuss.

Use the following illustration to answer Appendix B:

“The Lord Knows the Way of the


Righteous, But the Way of the of the
Ungodly will perish.” Psalm 1:6

Outcome: Outcome:

Like Chaff Like a well-watered tree


Will not endure Blooming and Productive
Will not stand with Resilient
the righteous ? Prosperous

The Way of the The Way of the


Ungodly Righteous

• Separated from the World


• Saturated with the Word of God
• Situated by the Waters

Decisions based on…. Decisions based on….

Walking in the counsel of the ungodly Delighting in God’s Law


Standing in the way of sinners Meditating on God’s ways
Sitting in the seat of the scornful

The theme of this Psalm is the happiness of the godly and the judgment of the ungodly. Verse 1
can be translated, “O the happinesses of the man.” No matter where we turn in the Bible, we find that
God gives joy to the obedient (even in the midst of trial) and ultimately sorrow to the disobedient. God
sees but two persons in this world: the godly, who are “in the Messiah,” and the ungodly, who are “in
Adam.” See 1 Cor. 15:22, 49. Let us look at these two persons.

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I. THE PERSON GOD BLESSES (1:1-3)

From the beginning of creation, God blessed mankind (Gen. 1:28); it was only after sin had entered
the world through Adam’s disobedience that we find the word “curse” (Gen. 3:14-19). It has always
been God’s desire that mankind should enjoy His blessings. Ephesians 1:3 tells us that the believer in
the Messiah has been “blessed with all spiritual blessings.” How rich we are in Him! However, many
believers do not “possess their possessions” (Obadiah 17) and enjoy their blessings in the Messiah.
God blesses the following types of people:
A. A person who is separated from the world (v. 1)

The believer’s life is compared to a walk (see Eph. 4:1, 17; 5:2, 8, 15). It begins with a step of faith
in trusting Messiah and it grows as we take further steps of faith in obedience to His Word. Walking
involves progress, and believers are to make progress in applying Bible truths to daily life.
But it is possible for the believer to walk “in the darkness,” outside the will of God (1 John 1:5-7).
The people God blesses are careful in their walk: though they are in the world, they are not of the world.
By contrast, we see the person walking near sin, then standing to consider it, and finally sitting down
to enjoy “the pleasures of sin for a season” (Heb. 11:25). (Use example of a new believer who once
gambled. Now, he walks over and sees his old friends gambling. Next, he stands and watches. Then
he sits down and joins in with them.)
We also see this sad development in Peter’s disobedience. Jesus said Peter and the other
disciples should go away (John 18:8), but instead, Peter walked after Jesus (18:15). Next we see him
standing with the wrong crowd (18:18), and before long he is sitting by the fire (Luke 22:55). You
know what happened: he walked right into temptation and three times denied his Lord. If believers start
listening to the counsel (advice, plans) of the ungodly, they will soon be standing in their way of life, and
finally will sit right down and agree with them.
B. A person who is saturated with the Word (v. 2)

Those whom God blesses are not delighted with what pertains to sin and the world; they delight in
the Word of God. It is love for and obedience to the Bible that brings blessing on our lives. See Joshua
1:8. The people God blesses not only read the Word daily, but they study it, memorize it, and meditate
on it during the day and night. Their mind is controlled by the Word of God. Because of this, they are
led by the Spirit and walk in the Spirit. Meditation is to the soul what “digestion” is to the body. It means
understanding the Word, “chewing on it,” and applying it to our lives, making it a part of the inner
person. See Jeremiah 15:16, Ezekiel 3:3, and Rev. 10:9.
C. A person who is situated by the waters (v. 3)

Water for drinking is a picture of the Holy Spirit of God (John 7:37-39). The believer is here
compared to a tree that gets its water from the deep hidden springs under the dry sands. This world is a
desert that can never satisfy the believer. We must send our “spiritual roots” down deep into the things
of the Messiah and draw upon the spiritual water of life. See Jeremiah 17:7-8, Ps. 92:12-14. There can
be no fruit without roots.

Are we more concerned about the leaves and the fruit than the roots? The roots are the most
important part. Unless believers spend time daily in prayer and the Word, and allow the Spirit to feed
them, they will wither. The believer who draws upon the spiritual life in close relationship to the Messiah
will be fruitful and successful in the life of faith. When believers cease to bear fruit, it is because
something has happened to the roots (Mark 11:12-13, 20, Luke 13:6-9).

What kind of fruit are we to bear? See Rom. 1:13 and 6:22, Gal. 5:22-23, Heb. 13:15 and Col. 1:10.
Discuss these verses.

Of course, the perfect example of this godly person in vv. 1-3 is Jesus the Messiah. He is the Way
(v. 1), the Truth (v. 2), and the Life (v. 3). See John 14:6.

II. THE PERSON GOD JUDGES (1:4-6)

“Not so!” This means that all that the godly person enjoys and experiences is not true in the life of
the ungodly.
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The godly are compared to a tree—strong, permanent, beautiful, useful, fruitful.
The ungodly are compared to chaff—
---they have no roots
---they are blown with the wind
---they are useless to the plans of God
---they are neither beautiful nor fruitful.

John the Baptist used a similar picture in Matt. 3:10-12 when he described God as the
harvester, visiting the threshing floor and separating the grain from the chaff. “He will burn up the chaff!”
See also Ps. 35:5 and Job 21:18. What a tragedy for people to spend their whole life on earth as chaff
and as far as eternal things are concerned, amount to nothing.

Is there a future judgment?


Verse 5 informs us that there is. Of course, in the Old Testament we do not find the full explanation
of the future judgments as we do in the New Testament. For the believer in the Messiah, there is no
judgment of sin (John 5:24; Rom. 8:1.) But for the unbeliever, there is “a fearful expectation of
judgment” (Heb. 10:27).

This judgment of the lost is described in Rev. 20:11-15. There will be no believers at that scene,
only unsaved people. The true character of the wicked will be revealed at that judgment; they will be
seen as chaff, worthless lost souls. Verse 5 says the wicked will not be able to endure the judgment.
When the books are opened, these individuals will be flung to their knees in confession of sin and of the
truth of God’s Word and God’s Son (Phil. 2:9-11). They will perish. These ungodly people will never be
allowed to enter the heavenly congregation of the righteous, even though on earth they might have
been members of religious groups. See Matt. 7:21-23.

The word “know” in the Bible means much more than the mental understanding indicated when we
say, “I know the names of the twelve Apostles.” In addition, it has the idea of choosing and caring. “The
Lord knows those who are His” (2 Tim. 2:19, ). “I know my sheep . . . . As the Father knows me, even
so I know the Father (John 10:14-15, ). Jesus’ statement to the lost is, “I never knew you” (Matt. 7:23).
The Lord knows the way of the righteous: He has planned it and marked it out (Eph. 2:10), and He
keeps His eyes upon the righteous as they walk this way. The life of the godly person is an eternal plan
of God! What he says, where he goes, what he does—all of these have eternal consequences.

But the ungodly have “turned every one to his own way” (Isa. 53:6). The path of the righteous
leads to glory (Prov. 4:18), but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Verse 6 sets before us the familiar teaching of the “two ways.” Jesus concluded His Sermon on the
Mount with this picture (Matt. 7:13), and we see it mentioned throughout the Book of Proverbs (Prov.
2:20; 4:14; 4:24-27). Why are the ungodly lost? Because they will not submit to the Messiah and His
Word. They prefer the counsel of the ungodly to the “whole counsel of God” in the Word (Acts 20:27).
They prefer the friendship of godless people to the congregation of the righteous. They spend their
days thinking about sin, not about the Word of God (Gen. 6:5). They think they are secure in the
earth—but they are only chaff!

How can the believer practice Psalm 1:1-3? It begins with surrender to the Lord, a daily surrender
of all that we are and all that we have (Rom. 12:1-2). It involves spending time with God’s Word,
reading it and meditating upon it. It means living a life separated from the world (not isolated, of course,
but separated from its defilement). It demands a life with roots that draw upon the hidden resources of
God. What a blessed life, one that gives satisfaction here and hereafter.

Background for Psalm 119:

For Teacher:
1. Prepare Appendix C to give to the participants.
2. Use the diagram below to outline Psalm 119.

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Psalm 119

What the What the What we


Bible Is! Bible Does! must do with
the Bible

1. Water for cleansing – 1. It blesses – 1-2 1. Love it – 97, 159


9 2. It gives life – 25, 3, 7, 2. Prize it – 72, 128
2. Wealth and Treasure 40, 50, 88, 93 3. Study it – 7, 12,
– 14, 72 127, 162 3. Gives strength – 28 18, 26 – 27
3. A Friend and 4. Gives liberty – 45 4. Memorize it – 11
Companion – 24 5. Imparts wisdom – 66, 5. Meditate on it –
4. A Song to Sing – 54 97 – 104 15, 23, 48, 78, 99,
5. Honey – 103 6. Creates friends – 63 148
6. A Lamp – 105, 130 7. Gives comfort – 50, 76, 6. Trust it – 42
7. A Great Spoil – 162 82, 92 7. Obey it – 1 – 8
8. Heritage - 111 8. Gives direction - 133 8. Declare it – 13, 26

This psalm is special in several ways. It is the longest psalm (176 verses), and it is an acrostic
psalm, following the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. In most editions of the Bible, the twenty-two
sections of this psalm are headed by the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet (Aleph, Beth,
Gimel, etc.).
In the Hebrew Bible, each verse in a section begins with that Hebrew letter. For example, all the
verses in the “aleph” section (vv. 1-8) begin with the Hebrew letter “aleph.”
The Jews wrote in this fashion to help them memorize the Scriptures so they could meditate on
God’s Word. We do not know who wrote this psalm, although the writer refers to himself many times.
I. WHAT THE BIBLE IS

A. Water for cleansing (v. 9)

This whole section (vv. 9-16) deals with victory over sin. Young people in particular need to learn to
heed and hide the Word that they might overcome temptation. As you read the Word and meditate on it,
it cleanses your inner being just as water cleanses the body. See John 15:3 and Eph. 5:25-27.

B. Wealth and treasure (vv. 14, 72, 127, 162)

Many people do not know the difference between prices and values. Your Bible may not cost much,
but what a treasure it is. How would you feel if you lost God’s Word and could not replace it? Or
someone took the Bible from you?

C. A companion and friend (v. 24)

The writer was a stranger (v. 19), rejected by the proud (v. 21) and by princes (v. 23), but he always
had the Word to be his counselor. Read Prov. 6:20-22.

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D. A song to sing (v. 54)

Imagine making a song out of statutes—laws! The songs of the world mean nothing to us, but
God’s Word is a song to our hearts.
E. Honey (v. 103)

The sweetness of the Word is like honey to the taste. It is sad when the believer must have the
“honey” of this world to be satisfied. See Ps. 34:8 and Job 23:12.
F. A lamp (vv. 105, 130)

This is a dark world and the only dependable light is the Word of God (2 Peter 1:19-21). It leads us
a step at a time, as we walk in obedience. First John 1:5-10 tells us that we walk in the light as we obey
His Word.
G. Great spoil (v. 162)

Poor soldiers were made rich from the spoil left by the defeated enemy. The riches of the Word do
not come easy; there must first be that spiritual battle against Satan and the flesh. But it is worth it.
Read Luke 11:14-23.
H. A heritage (v. 111)

What a precious inheritance is the Bible!


II. WHAT THE BIBLE DOES

A. It blesses (vv. 1-2)

It is the book with a blessing (Ps. 1:1-3). We are blessed in reading the Word, understanding the
Word and obeying the Word. We are also blessed when we share the Word with others.
B. It gives life (vv. 25, 37, 40, 50, 88, 93)

The Word gives us eternal life when we believe (1 Peter 1:23). It is the living Word (Heb. 4:12). But
the Word also gives us life when we are weak, discouraged, and defeated. Revival comes when we
yield to God’s Word.
C. It gives strength (v. 28)

Trusting the Word encourages us (Matt. 4:4). God’s Word has power (Heb. 4:12) and can empower
us when we believe and obey.
D. It gives liberty (v. 45)

A law that gives liberty! Sin would have dominion over us (v. 133), but the Word sets us free (John
8:32). True liberty comes in obeying God’s will. His Word is “the perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25).
E. It imparts wisdom (vv. 66, 97-104)

We may get knowledge and facts in other books, but true spiritual wisdom is found in the Bible.
Note in vv. 97-104 that there are various ways to discover truth—from your enemies, from your
teachers, from your older friends—and all of these are good. But above them all is a knowledge of the
Bible.
F. It creates friends (v. 63)

Knowing and obeying the Bible will bring into your life the very finest friends. Those who love God’s
Word are friends indeed. There are false friends who may overwhelm you with their worldly wisdom and
wealth, but their friendship will lead you astray. Stay with those who “stay” with the Bible (v. 31).

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G. It gives comfort (vv. 50, 76, 82, 92)

More than sixty verses in this psalm mention trial and persecution (vv. 22, 50-53, 95, 98, 115, etc.).
The believer who obeys the Word will have trials in this world, but the Bible gives him lasting comfort.
The Comforter, the Spirit of God, takes the Word of God and applies it to our hearts to comfort us.
H. It gives direction (v. 133)

The believing life is a “walk,” a day at a time and a step at a time (vv. 1, 3, 45). The Word directs
our steps, both for walking and for running (v. 32). Note the prayers in vv. 35 and 116-117. As we pray
for guidance, the Lord answers through His Word.

III. WHAT WE MUST DO WITH THE BIBLE

A. Love it (vv. 97, 159)

The way you treat your Bible is the way you treat the Messiah. To love Him is to love His Word. The
Word is a delight (vv. 16, 24 , 16, 35, 47, 70) and not a disappointment. We rejoice to read it (vv. 14,
162).

B. Prize it (vv. 72, 128)

To hold the Bible in high esteem is the mark of a true saint. It should be more precious to us than
any earthly treasure.
C. Study it (vv. 7, 12, 18, 26-27)

At least twelve times the psalmist prays, “Teach me.” The believer who daily studies his Bible will
be blessed of God. Bible study is not always easy, for it takes the “whole heart” (vv. 2, 10, 34, 69, 145).
D. Memorize it (v. 11)

We all need to memorize the Word. Not children and young people alone. Joshua was not a youth
when God commanded him to memorize the Law (Joshua 1:8). Jesus was able to quote Scripture when
He faced Satan in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1-11).
E. Meditate on it (vv. 15, 23, 48, 78, 97, 99, 148)

Meditation is to the soul what digestion is to the body. To meditate means to “turn over” God’s
Word in the mind and heart, to examine it, to compare Scripture with Scripture, to “feed on” its
wonderful truths.
What if someone in authority speaks evil against you? Do you feel powerless? When it happens,
what do you usually do? Do you meditate on the evil spoken to you?---Meditating on garbage---- So,
what must we do?

F. Trust it (v. 42)

We trust the Bible about everything, because it is right about everything (v. 128). It is true and can
be trusted wholly. To argue with the Bible is to argue with God. We test every other book by what God
says in His Word.
G. Obey it (vv. 1-8) How many times is the word “walk,” “keep” or “obey” used in these verses?
Look it Up!

To keep the Word is to obey it, to walk in its commandments. Satan knows the Word, but he cannot
obey it. If we know God’s truth and fail to obey it, we are only fooling ourselves.

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H. Declare it (vv. 13, 26)

As we obey, we should also witness to others about the Word and tell them what the Lord has done
for us.

Questions:
1. What characterizes the 119th Psalm?
2. What 3 ways can we divide the psalm?
3. Review the 3 divisions.

Psalm Type No. 2 - Nature and Creation (Psalms 8, 19, 33, 65, 104)

Background for Psalm 19

For teacher:
Prepare Appendix D to give to the participants and fill it out.
Use the chart below to outline Psalm 19

He Speaks in the He Speaks in the He Speaks in the


Skies. 19:1 – 6 Scriptures. Soul. 19:12 - 14
19:1 - 11

V. 2 – Day and Night Prayer


v. 3 – 4 Creation A. What the Bible is – Meditation
speaks a universal 1. The perfect law
language to all nations. 2. The sure testimony
Romans 1:18 - 32 3. The right statutes
4. The pure commandment
5. The clean fear of the Lord
6. True, righteous judgments
7. Better than gold
8. Sweeter than hone
B. What the Bible Does –
1. Converts
2. Makes wise
3. Rejoices
4. Enlightens
5. Satisfies
6. Warns
7. Rewards

God’s revelation to man is the theme of this psalm. It is amazing that God speaks to us at all. Men
and women are sinners and have no desire to listen to God, yet He graciously continues to speak. God
speaks to us in three ways:

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I. HE SPEAKS IN THE SKIES (19:1-6)

God’s wisdom, power, and glory are seen in His creation. The psalmist looks at the marvels of
heaven and earth and sees God. See also Pss. 8 and 29 as well as Isa. 40:12-31. Jesus saw His
Father’s handiwork in the lilies and the birds (Matt. 6:24-34). Both by day and by night, God’s creation is
speaking (v. 2), but this speech is not heard with the human ear. In verse 3 we hear voice of God in
creation and we see His wisdom and power. Certainly so complex an entity as our universe (and the
universes beyond our own universe) demands a Creator and Sustainer. To believe that the universe
evolved out of nothing and arranged itself in this orderly manner is folly.

Creation speaks a universal language to all nations (vv. 3-4). It is this fact that Paul used in Rom.
1:18-32 to prove that all people everywhere are under the wrath of God. “Are the unbelievers lost?” is
an often repeated question, and the answer is “Yes.” On what basis are they lost if they have never
heard the Gospel? ---On the basis of God’s revelation in creation. The unbelievers see God’s power
and wisdom, His “eternal Godhead,” in creation and know that they have a responsibility to Him. Paul
uses Ps. 19:4 again in Rom. 10:18.

Nature preaches a thousand sermons a day to the human heart. Each day begins with light and
moves to darkness, from waking to sleeping, a picture of life without God. Each year moves from spring
to winter, from life to death. We see the grass mowed down (Isa. 40:6-8), the tree cut down (Luke 13:6-
9; Matt. 3:10), the fire destroying the waste (Matt. 13:40-42). The activities of nature, under the hand of
God, are vivid object lessons to the hearts of sinners but, many do not want to see or hear. The lost
sinner, wherever he or she may be on this globe, stands condemned before the throne of God.

II. HE SPEAKS IN THE SCRIPTURES (19:7-11)

A. What the Bible is

(1) The perfect law—There is no error in the Bible, either in historical fact or in spiritual truth. Of
course, the Bible records the lies of men and of Satan, but the total message of the Bible is that of truth.
See Ps. 119:128 and 160.
(2) The sure testimony—The Word does not change; it is sure and steadfast, Ps. 119:89. It is God’s
testimony to man -- His witness of what is true and right. See Matt. 5:18.
(3) The right statutes—“Statutes” means “precepts, rules for daily living.” Some rules are wrong
rules; God’s Word is right. Obeying the Word brings blessing to daily life.
(4) The pure commandment—See Pss. 12:6; 119:140; Proverbs 30:5. The “sacred books” of some
world religions are may not be pure, but God’s Word is pure, even when dealing with sin. Nothing in the
Bible, rightly understood, could lead a person into sin.
(5) The clean fear of the Lord—The phrase “fear of the Lord” (v. 9) is another reference to “the
Law,” since the Word of God produces a reverence for God. See Deut. 4:10; Ps. 111:10. To fear God
makes a person clean; to worship heathen idols makes a person filthy.
(6) True, righteous judgments—God’s evaluation of men and things is true. He knows all things
completely. It pays for the believer to believe what God says and not to depend on his own evaluation.
Lot made this mistake and lost everything.
(7) Better than gold—What a treasure is the Bible (Ps. 119:72; Prov. 8:10; 16:16).
(8) Sweeter than honey (Ps. 119:103)—The spiritual believer does not need the artificial things of
this world for satisfaction; the Word satisfies the spiritual appetite.
B. What the Bible does

(1) Converts—This is the same as “restores” in Ps. 23:3. The Word converts the sinner from his
ways and restores the saint when he wanders. It refreshes and heals.
(2) Makes wise—Read Ps. 119:97-104; Isa. 8:20; Jer. 8:9; Col. 1:9; James 1:5.
(3) Rejoices—The spiritual believer finds joy in the Word (Jer. 15:16).
(4) Enlightens—“The entrance (opening) of Your words gives light” (Ps. 119:130).
(5) Endures—Other books fade and are forgotten, but God’s Word remains.
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(6) Enriches—It is better than gold or silver (Prov. 3:13-15).
(7) Satisfies—The honey satisfies the body; the Word satisfies the soul.
(8) Warns—It is better to prevent sin and avoid trouble than to confess sin and try to remedy
mistakes. Knowing the Word and obeying it guides the believer on the safe path. See Prov. 2.
(9) Rewards—Money cannot buy the rewards of a godly life: a clean conscience, a pure heart, joy,
peace and answered prayer.

III. HE SPEAKS IN THE SOUL (19:12-14)

No person can understand his or her own heart (Jer. 17:9). We need the mirror of the Word to
reveal our sins to us (James 1:22-25). The psalmist closes by asking God to reveal his secret sins to
him (see Ps. 139:23-24).

The Old Testament (OT) law provided for sins of ignorance (Lev. 4-5; Num. 15:22). But for sins of
open defiance and rebellion, there was no sacrifice (see Num. 15:30-31).

David asks not only to be cleansed of secret faults, but to be restrained from running head-long into
open sin. “Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation.” This kind of wicked abandonment to sin
leads to slavery, and sin becomes the master of the life. Romans 6 tells us that sin should not have
dominion over us. Of course, it is by allowing the Word of God to control our lives that we get victory
over sin.

In v. 13, the psalmist seems to mean a “sin unto death” or a repeated rebellion against God that
brings forth His wrath. It is by an accumulation of the little secret sins of v. 12 that the person gradually
walks into the great sin. It is important that believers confess their sins immediately and allow the Word
and the blood to cleanse the heart.

The prayer of v. 14 ought to be on our lips and in our hearts all day long. The meditation of the
heart controls the words of the mouth (Mark 7:14-23). The word “meditation” here has the image of a
musician plucking the strings of a harp.

Who controls the music of your heart -- God or Satan? Meditation is the taking in of the Word of
God and making it a part of the inner being. As the heart and mind think on the Word all day long, the
Spirit guides the life. This is what it means to walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:16) and to have the spiritual mind
(Rom. 8:1-8).
Is your Bible all to you that God wants it to be? Read this psalm again and ask God to enable you
to love the Word, live in it, and obey it—and He will bless you.

Group Work:
Have the group divide into groups of 3. Look up the literary styles that were discussed in class.

LESSON 2

No. 3 Master Key: God’s Son Revealed


Approximately half of the Old Testament references to the Messiah which are quoted in the New
Testament are in the Psalms. The apostles saw prophetic reference in this book to:
• The Messiah’s birth (Acts 13:33)
• His lineage (Matt. 22:42–45)
• His zeal (John 2:17)
• His teaching by parables (Matt. 13:35)
• His rejection (Matt. 21:42)

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• His priesthood (Heb. 5:6)
• His betrayal by Judas (John 13:18)
• His vicarious suffering (Rom. 15:3)
• His triumphant Resurrection (Acts 2:25–28)
• His Ascension (Acts 2:34)
• His Reign (1 Cor. 15:27)
No. 4 Key Word: Worship
The central theme of the Book of Psalms is worship—God is worthy of all praise because of who He is,
what He has done, and what He will do. His goodness extends through all time and eternity.

Psalm Types

Psalm Type No. 3 - Individual Lament of Repentance:


Directly addressed to God, these Psalms petition Him to rescue and defend an individual.

They have five Petition elements:


• an introduction (usually a cry to God)
• the lament
• a confession of trust in God
• the petition
• a declaration or vow of praise.

Most psalms are of this type ( 3–7; 12; 13; 22; 25–28; 35; 38–40; 42; 43; 51; 54–57; 59; 61; 63;
64; 69–71; 86; 88; 102; 109; 120; 130; 140–143)

Background for Psalm 51

Teaching Activity:
1. Use the diagram below to explain the Psalm. This can be put on the board as you discuss.
2. Have the group count how many times the words – “me” and “my sin” are used in the Psalm.
3. Locate the five “Petition” elements in Psalm 51.

The Cost

Commiting Sin

Confessing Sin

Cleansing Sin

The background for Psalms 51 and 32 is 2 Sam. 11-12. You will want to give a short story of
David’s sin. (David lusted after his neighbor’s wife, committed adultery, made the husband drunk, had
him killed and then covered the whole affair.). He was not a youth when he fell into these sins; he was a
mature man, ruling over a great kingdom. “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor.
10:12, ). Psalm 51 was David’s prayer of confession, and Ps. 32 his song of praise for forgiveness.

Background Reading: Read 1 John 1:5 - 2:2 for God’s provision for cleansing.

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Have the group read Psalm 51 silently and count how many times the words “me” and “my sin” are
used. Give them about 5 minutes to read and count. The count will vary according to your translation.

Questions:
1. How many times do you find the words me and my sin used?
2. Who is David concerned with?
3. What kind of feelings does he have?
4. Why does he feel this way?
5. When you sin what kind of feelings do you have?

Let’s talk about Psalm 51:


DAVID’S PRAYER OF CONFESSION

This is a very personal prayer. Note how often David uses “me” and “my sin.” His eyes are not on
someone else; his eyes are on himself and on his Lord.
What is sin? To women it might mean a flawed or failed relationship with God the Father because
of sin. To men it might mean breaking God’s law and commands.
Let’s look how David saw sin.

A. The cost of committing sin

Falling into lust and adultery seemed momentary acts, but what a tremendous price David paid. (It
is possible, though, that David had “planned to sin” when he came home from the battle.) As we shall
see in Ps. 32:3-4, David paid for his sins physically and became ill. But the spiritual cost was also
great. He lost the purity of his heart (vv. 1-2) and therefore needed to be washed and cleansed (v. 7).

Note the words used for sin here: transgression (wrong doing) means acts of rebellion, defying
God by crossing over the line God has drawn. Iniquity means inward crookedness, perversity. Sin
means missing the mark, failing to meet God’s standard.

Use the diagram. (Put on board.)

Verse 17 suggests that David’s heart not only became defiled, but it also became hard. When we
hold on to sin, it hardens the heart. David’s eyes were also affected; all he could see were his sins (v.
3). People with a dirty conscience are usually on the defensive, wondering what other people may
know. Sin also affected his ears, for he lost the sound of joy and gladness (v. 8). Nothing sounds good
to a person out of fellowship with God. Even David’s lips were affected, for he could no longer testify or
witness, or even sing God’s praises (vv. 13-15). Nothing stops a believer’s testimony like un-confessed
sin. His mind was affected, for he begged for wisdom (v. 6). The inner person (heart and spirit, v. 10)
was out of fellowship with God (v. 11), and there was no joy.

God does not take away the Holy Spirit when we sin (John 14:16), but we do grieve the Spirit and
thereby lose His fellowship and help (Eph. 4:30-32). May we never forget the high cost of committing
sin!
B. The cost of confessing sin

True confession of sin involves repentance, a sincere change of mind. During that year when David
covered his sins, he thought he would “get away” with something. But when Nathan confronted him with
his sins, David’s heart spoke to him and he repented.

There is a difference between admitting sins and confessing sins. Confession (1 John 1:9) literally
means “to say the same thing.” If we say the same thing about our sins that God says about them, and
we truly mean it, then we are confessing sin. David even went so far as to admit his sinful nature, born
in sin.
(v. 5). Beware of “cheap confession.” Merely praying with the lips, “Lord, I have sinned, please
forgive me!” is not confession. True confession costs something—a broken spirit and a contrite heart (v.
17). This does not mean that we pay money to the church or do much fasting or do many pilgrimages to
earn forgiveness, but it does mean that we are so broken by our sins that we hide nothing from God.
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C. The cost of cleansing sin

Good works cannot cleanse sin, not even religious works (good deeds, fasting, pilgrimages) and
sacrifices (vv. 16-17). Only the blood of Jesus the Messiah, through his sacrifice on the cross, can wash
away sins (Heb. 10:1-18; 1 John 1:7-2:2). Forgiveness is not a cheap thing; it cost Jesus the Messiah
His life. We receive forgiveness because of what He has done, not because of our prayers or tears.
God is willing to blot out sins (vv. 1, 9; see Isa. 43:25) and purge us completely. The high cost of
cleansing alone ought to make us hate sin and want to turn from it.

Psalm Type No. 4 - Individual Thanksgiving Psalms:


The psalmist publicly acknowledges God’s activity on his behalf. These psalms thank God for
something He has already done or express confidence in what He will do. They have these elements:
• a proclamation to praise God
• a summary statement
• a report of deliverance
• a renewed vow of praise
(e.g., 18; 30; 32; 34; 40; 41; 66; 106; 116; and 138).

For the Teacher:


1. Find the 4 Thanksgiving elements in Psalm 32.
2. Hand out Appendix E and discuss as you teach.

Background for Psalm 32

DAVID’S PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING FOR GOD’S CLEANSING

The first two verses are quoted by Paul in Romans 4:7-8, so be sure to read that passage.

Literally, David sang: “Oh, the happiness of the man whose rebellion has been forgiven, whose
failure to hit the mark has been covered. How happy is the man on whose account the Lord does not
count his crookedness, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.”

David had been guilty of all of this: he had rebelled against the Law and failed to meet God’s
righteous standard; he had allowed his crooked nature to control him and he had deceitfully covered the
whole matter up.

See Proverbs 28:13 and apply it to David’s case.

“He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper,


but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.” Prov. 28:13
A. The silence of conviction (vv. 3-4)

What happened to David when he refused to confess his sins?


He suffered. He suffered spiritually (as we saw in Ps. 51), but he also suffered physically. He
became like an old man. God’s hand of conviction was heavy upon him day and night. He “dried up”
like a brook in a drought. Some people who go to the doctor to take care of their symptoms ought to go
to the Lord to take care of their sins. This does not mean that all sickness is caused by sin, but it does
mean that unconfessed sin can cause physical affliction. See 1 Cor. 11:29-32.
B. The tears of confession (v. 5)

Literally, “I began to make known to You my sin.” David immediately confessed that he had sinned
when Nathan spoke to him (2 Sam. 12:13), but then, privately, he allowed the Spirit of God to uncover
his sins one by one.

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David’s prayer was no “general confession”; he named his sins specifically. Because he confessed,
God forgave. One writer has said, “The less you spare yourself, the more God will spare you.” Paul
said, “For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged” (1 Cor. 11:31).

God does not forgive us because we feel sorry or because we pray. He forgives us when we
confess our sins because He is “faithful and just”—faithful to His promise and just with reference to the
Cross. God will not make us pay for sins that the Messiah has already paid for.

Read Rom. 8:31-39.

C. The song of cleansing (vv. 6-7)

David’s sighing has been replaced by singing. He is surrounded by “songs of deliverance” and
wherever he turns, he discovers something to sing about. It used to be that wherever he turned, he saw
his sins (51:3). He warns us that we should pray to God for forgiveness “in a time of finding.” This may
have two meanings: in a time when we find out our sins, and in a time when God may be found (Isa.
55:6-7). If a believer allows sins to accumulate, God will have to step in and chasten (Heb. 12). David is
no longer afraid, for God is his hiding place. Let troubles come; he is not afraid.
D. The shout of confidence (vv. 8-11)

God is now speaking to David and assuring him that He will direct his steps.

“He restores my soul;


He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake” (Ps. 23:3).

God wants to guide us, not with a heavy rod, but with His eye.

An obedient child watches his parents’ eyes, to see what their will is.
The believer must constantly stay under the Father’s eye and live to please Him.

In v. 9 David talks about two extremes: the horse that rushes ahead impulsively, and the mule that
lags behind stubbornly. Believers should avoid both of these patterns of behavior. We should walk with
the Lord a step at a time in loving obedience. Horses and mules must be controlled by bits and bridles
“or else they will not come near you.” Some believers must have “bits and bridles” before God can
control them. But the normal way is for God to guide us with His eye upon us. Dumb animals have no
understanding, but God’s people can understand what the will of the Lord is (Eph. 5:15-17).

After we as believers have sinned and been restored, satan tries to undermine our peace and
confidence. We begin to worry about the past and the consequences of our foolishness. Yes, there are
bitter fruits from disobedience (and how David found that out!), but vv. 10-11 assure us that God
protects and upholds those who belong to Him. The wicked have many sorrows, and sorrows come to
the lives of disobedient saints, but the cleansed believer experiences the loving-kindness and mercy of
the Lord. No wonder David ends by shouting. The past is forgiven—the present is joyful—and the future
is secure in the hands of God.

When you pray a prayer of repentance, how do you pray? Do you use the illustration outlined in Psalm
32?

Background for Psalm 34

For Teacher:

1. Prepare Appendix F and hand out.


2. Fill in the diagram as you teach

The historical background of this acrostic (alphabetic) psalm is related in 1 Samuel 21:10–15.

Why were Alphabetic Psalms used?

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Fearful that Saul would kill him, David fled to Gath and sought the protection of the enemy (1 Sam.
21:10–22:2). But you are never safe out of the will of God, and David had to lie to escape. This psalm is
David’s personal testimony of what God did for him.

“I will bless” (1–10). These verses contain the praise, thanksgiving and testimony of the one who
was redeemed.
David had every reason to praise the Lord, for the Lord had rescued him from certain death. When
you call on the Lord in faith, He saves (vv. 4–6), He keeps (v. 7) and He satisfies (vv. 8–10). Why run to
the enemy when you can run to the Lord and be safe?

“I will teach” (11–22). David wanted the next generation to know the Lord and trust Him. He gave
some wise counsel about how to have “good days” (vv. 12–14; 1 Pet. 3:8–12), and he urged them to
call on the Lord in the time of trouble. God’s eyes see your needs, God’s ears hear your prayers, and
God is near you when your heart is broken.

When God does something special for you, tell somebody else. The next generation needs to know
that God is alive.

This psalm of David is when he changed his behavior before Abimelech who drove him away and
he departed. In the psalm David does not talk about his sinfulness, but rather spends his time praising
the Lord for His grace.

“I will bless”:
34:1–3. I will bless the LORD at all times.
The psalmist’s resolve is steadfast. In every situation and under every circumstance, he is
determined to bless the Lord. But more than that, his blessing of the Lord will not just be in his heart,
but his praise shall continually be in his mouth … O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt
his name together. David extends a call for Israel to come and praise Jehovah with him.

The reasons that such praise is justified are listed in verses 4–10.
What are these reasons?
• This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him. The poor man is a reference to David
himself.
• saved him out of all his troubles.
• The angel of the LORD encamps around about them that fear him, 4–7. They looked to
him, and were delivered.
• 8–10. O taste and see that the LORD is good. Put the matter to the test of experience
(I Pet 2:3).
• there is no want to them that fear him. Jehovah will not allow His faithful servants to starve,
nor to lack in any of the necessities of life. They that seek the LORD shall not want any good
thing.

“I will teach”:
Suddenly, David’s praise for the Lord gives way to teaching others. He calls to them --
• 11–12, Come, you children, listen to me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD. What can a
man do if he desires a long life and good days all his life? It is to this that David now addresses
himself.
• 13–14. Keep your tongue from evil. Sins of the tongue have been abundantly noted in the
Psalms (5:9; 10:7; 12:3; 15:3; 50:19; 57:4; 73:8–9; etc.).
• Depart from evil, and do good. Now some positive and negative advice.
Depart from evil means to go away from evil, to avoid it as one would avoid a plague.
Positively, once one has departed from evil, he may
do good. It is not simply enough to lack evil; one must possess good. In addition,
• Seek peace, and pursue it. .
• 15–16. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous. The eyes and the ears of the Lord are
always open to those who live righteously, and no righteous act ever escapes God’s eye.
Equally,
• The face of the LORD is against them that do evil. God is never indifferent to the deeds of
sinful men.

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• 17–18. The righteous cry, and the LORD hears.… The LORD is near to them that are of a
broken heart. The Lord does not hear the cry of the proud, but when we live righteously and
humbly, He is always near in friendship to receive and console us.
• 19. Many are the afflictions of the righteous. For the believer, afflictions come from every
point of of our lives (Job 36:8–10; Acts 14:22; I Cor 15:19; II Tim 3:12; Heb 11:33–38; 12:5–10).
But the LORD delivers him out of them all. Whenever God has allowed suffering to do its
perfect work in purging, molding and shaping us, He will then remove that difficulty from us.
• 20–21. He keeps all his bones: not one of them is broken. The bones are the entire frame
of the body, that which provides structure to the entire body. Not a bone of the Lord’s body was
broken at His crucifixion. And they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. Although they
are rebellious group now, those who have caused hurt and who have hated all who live
righteously will one day find themselves forsaken, desolate and alone.
• 22. The LORD redeems the soul of his servants. With great price and great power the Lord
Jesus has taken the soul of the redeemed from satan’s grasp. Our souls have been set free,
liberated, by the paying of a price. The ransom was Jesus the Messiah.
• And none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. What a tremendous promise with
which to conclude this psalm.

LESSON 3

No. 5 Key Verses: Psalm 19:14; 145:21


Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.”

Psalm 145:21 “My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD,
And all flesh will bless His holy name forever and ever.”

Questions:
1. Why are these two verses special?
2. What is important about the heart in order to praise and worship the Lord?

No. 6 - Power Key: God’s Spirit at Work


The Book of Psalms ministers to the soul of humankind and to the heart of God because they are
the product of the work of the Holy Spirit.

David, the major contributor to the Book of Psalms, was anointed by the Holy Spirit (1 Sam.
16:13). Not only was this anointing for kingship, but it was for the office of a prophet (Acts 2:30). The
prophetic statements he recorded were by the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:44; Acts 1:16). In fact,
the lyrics of his songs were composed by the inspiration of the Spirit (2 Sam. 23:1–2), as were his plans
for appointing chief musicians and choirs with their accompanying orchestras (1 Chronicles 28:12–13).

Specific statements show that the Holy Spirit is at work:


a. in creating life (104:30)
b. as He faithfully accompanies the believer (139:7)
c. as He guides and instructs (143:10)
d. as He sustains the penitent (51:11–12)as
e. as He interacts with the rebellious (106:33).

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Psalm Types:

Psalm Type 5 - Historical Psalms:


These psalms review God’s dealings with His people. (68, 78, 105, 106, 136)

Background for Psalm 136

Two choirs sang this psalm. One choir sang the first line of each verse, and the other choir
answered, “For His mercy endures forever.” This was not worthless repetition (Matt. 6:7), for the second
choir was offering inspired praise to the Lord. You can never say too much about the mercy of God!
God reveals His mercy by giving you a wonderful creation to use and to enjoy (vv. 4–9).
He reveals His mercy in His care for you, helping you fight your battles and defeat your enemies
(vv. 10–25). Israel was not always faithful to God, but that is where His mercy comes in! He was faithful
to them.
Every verse in this psalm mentions the mercy of God. It exalts God’s mercy. In Ephesians 2:4 Paul
says, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy….”
The God of heaven is caring for you on earth! His mercy endures forever!

For the Teacher:

1. Divide the group into 2 groups.


2. Have one group read the top line and the other group read the second line of each verse of
Psalm 136.
3. Do this two of times.
4. For 10 minutes of quiet time in the group have each person write down 5 - 10 things in his
history that he/she can say, “His mercy endures forever.” Go around the group, each one
sharing one item at a time, with the rest of the group saying, “His mercy endures for ever.”

Psalm Type No - 6, Supplication:


Prayers of the Righteous- The Psalmist cries to God for his own need, or intercedes for
another’s need. Ps. 17; 20; 25; 44; 50; 86, etc.

Background for Psalm 86:

We have come now to another Davidic psalm and it is a prayer of David.

“Preserve my life” (1–10). David was in trouble again. As he always did, he turned to the Lord for
help, and he presented some reasons why God should answer him. God was his God, and he was
God’s servant. God was merciful, and he needed mercy. He wanted God alone to be glorified in the
victory. God is good and great and ready to help.

“Unite my heart” (11–13). A divided heart leads only to instability (James 1:5–8), because you
cannot serve two masters (Matt. 6:22–24). With a single heart, fear the Lord, learn from the Lord, obey
the Lord and praise His name.

“Strengthen my hand” (14–17). David’s strength and experience were inadequate to face the foe; he
needed the strength of the Lord. David knew God’ Word (v. 15; Exod. 34:6; Neh. 9:17) and that helped
him in his praying. The better you know God, the better you can approach Him with your needs.

One of the significant things about this Psalm is that David gives a reason for almost everything he
says, whether in petition or adoration. We may illustrate this by the following arrangement:

For the Teacher:

1. Have the group list the Petition and the Reason for the Petition on the board for verses 1-7.

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PETITION REASON
86:1 To meet with the Lord………………………………..The psalmist’s helplessness and need.
86:2a For preservation …………………………………. His position as a holy person
86:2b For salvation from enemies…………………………..No explicit reason is given but it may be
implied in the clause “You are my God”
86:3 For gracious consideration………………………. David’s persistence in prayer all day long.
86:4 For joy and gladness……………………………….His hope is in the Lord and in no one else.
86:5 This verse may give an additional reason
for the preceding requests. Or it may
be added to the prayer in verse 6. ……………………………The goodness and readiness to forgive,
and mercy of the Lord are poured out on all
those who call upon Him.

86:7 For help in the day of his trouble. …………………The fact that God does hear and will answer
prayer.

2. The psalmist turns to praise in the next verses. List the verses that praise the Lord and the reason
for the praise.

PRAISE REASON
86:8 For the matchlessness of the Lord’s Person and works. ………….

86:9 For His worthiness to be adored by all nations.


(This will be fulfilled in the Millennium)

86:10 God is great. His works are wondrous.


There is no other God.

4. David is asking the Lord for what? What the reason for the petition.?

PETITION REASON
86:11 For instruction in the way of the Lord In order that the psalmist might walk in
obedience to God’s truth.

For a heart that is completely dedicated to


revere and obey the Lord.

5. David again praises the Lord. What are his reasons for praising Him?

PRAISE REASON
86:12, 13 Here David simply expresses
his determination to praise the Lord with all his being,
and to glorify His name forevermore.
For God’s great mercy in delivering him from
the depths of the grave. If we apply the
Psalm to the Messiah, then this is a reference
to His resurrection.

6. 86:14–16 The remaining verses describe the imminent danger of the psalmist. A mob of arrogant,
violent men have conspired to take his life. These men have no time for God. But David knows
the Lord and in this crucial moment he comforts himself in the knowledge that God is:
What characteristics does David give of God?

full of compassion
gracious
longsuffering
abundant in mercy and truth.

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Therefore he is confident in asking the Lord to turn to him in pity, to strengthen him and to
save him.

7. What is David’s request of God?

86:17 Finally, the psalmist asks that the Lord will give him some definite sign of His favor. Then
his enemies will realize that they have been on the wrong side when they see how God has helped
David and comforted him.

We mentioned in the beginning that the Psalm was important in that it gave reasons for most of its
prayers or praises. There are two other unique features that should be mentioned.

First, David has quoted effectively from other Scriptures; he is actually praying or praising with a
collection of Bible verses.

Second, the divine name “Adonai” is used seven times (it is translated “Lord” in vv. 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12
and 15). God-fearing Jews often used this title rather than Jehovah. The Sopherim, or ancient
custodians of the Sacred Text, changed the name Jehovah to Adonai 134 times when reading aloud,
out of what they considered extreme reverence for the Inexpressible Name “Jehovah.”

Questions:
1. In your life as a believer, have you been in circumstances you could not control? Did you turn to
God in prayer and He answered that prayer? Could you describe God because of that answered
prayer? What characteristics would you give for God?
2. If you were in trouble of some kind, what characteristics of God would you use in your prayer to
Him?
3. How would you address God?

Group Time:

1. Put the following questions on the board.


2. Divide in groups of 3 and answer these question from either Psalms 8, 16, 42.

Questions:
1. What are the repeated ideas, phrases, words?
2. What places or events are mentioned?
3. What kind of Psalm is it? (Use Appendix A to help you answer the question.)
4. What does this Psalm tell you about the God/writer/nature/people?
5. What emotions does the writer have? Is there an Old Testament story that helps you understand
“why” he feels that way?
6. What blessings or promises come to the righteous?
7. What judgments come to the unrighteous?
8. What are some circumstances in your life that these “Words of Life” can help?
9. How can you apply these words to yourself?

LESSON 4

Key Authors:

Almost half (73) of the psalms are designated as Davidic.


David’s wide experience as shepherd, musician, warrior and king (1011–971 B.C.) is reflected in these
psalms.

In addition to the seventy-three by David,


• twelve were by Asaph, a priest who headed the service of music (see 50; 73–83; Ezra 2:41)

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• ten were by the sons of Korah, a guild of singers and composers (see 42; 44–49; 84–85; 87;
Num. 26:9–11)
• two were by Solomon, Israel’s most powerful king (72; 127)
• one was by Moses -- a prince, herdsman, and deliverer (90)
• one was by Heman -- a wise man (see Psalm 88; 1 Kin. 4:31; 1 Chron. 15:19)
• and one was by Ethan -- a wise man (see Psalm 89; 1 Kin. 4:31; 1 Chr. 15:19).
• The remaining fifty psalms are anonymous: 1; 2; 10; 33; 43; 66–67; 71; 91–100; 102; 104–107;
111–121; 123; 125–126; 128–130; 132; 134–137 and 146–150.
• Some of the anonymous psalms are traditionally attributed to Ezra.

Author Psalms
David 3-9; 11-32; 34-41; 51-65;68-70;86;101;103;108-
110;122;124;131;133;138-145
Korah 42;44-49;84-85;87
Asaph 50; 73-83
Solomon 72;127
Ethan 89
Heman 88
Moses 90
Others All other psalms

No. 8 Key Themes: Sin and Righteousness

Questions:
1. Are the words “sin and righteousness” mentioned in Psalms? How many times?
2. What is your definition of sin? What scripture do you use to define sin?
3. What is your definition of righteousness? What scripture do you use to define righteousness?

Since man’s worship of God is the main theme in Psalms, the spiritual conditions for access to
a holy God are referred to throughout the book . We have studied in Psalm 1 where it introduces
Psalms by distinguishing between the righteous man and the wicked man.
The righteous man fellowships with God. sin is a wall that separates sinful man from God.
Depending on your translations, you may see throughout the Psalms the repetitions of such words as
these:

o Righteous and righteousness ----- over 130 times


o Sin and iniquity ------ at least 50 times
o Good and evil ------- about 40 times
o Judgment ----- more than 100 times

These words remind us of our spiritual condition before a Holy God and how we are to come before
Him.

Psalm Types:

Psalm Type No. 7 - Cursing:


Some psalms cry out not only for the righteous to be vindicated, but also for God to punish the wicked
(Ps. 69:22–28). Through this God brings judgment on the wicked.

With the coming of Jesus to bear God’s judgment, the warfare of God’s people continues, but is
directed now against “spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12). In their spiritual
warfare, believers are commanded not to curse, but to bless their personal enemies, overcoming evil
with good (Rom. 12:17–21). [Ps. 10, 35, 52 58,59,69,83,109,137,140]

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Background for Psalm 10

1. Read Psalm 10.


2. Ask the students to tell you the characteristics of the wicked as you list them on the board.
3. Ask, “Do you see these things happening today?”
4. “What are your feelings toward the wicked? Are they like David’s feelings?”
5. How do you pray for the wicked?
6. Prepare Appendix G (Define belief, feelings and actions).
7. “Read Psalm 10 to find David’s beliefs, his feelings and his actions which result from these beliefs
and feelings. Put your answers on the chart. ”
Read Psalm 10 to find the wicked man’s beliefs, his feelings and his actions which result from these
beliefs and feelings. Put your answers on the chart.”

David now asks that the Lord would deal with his wicked enemies. This psalm reflects a sense of
urgency: the psalmist pleads for immediate deliverance.

The structure of Ps. 10 is:

David points to the present condition in the world where God seems to have permitted the wicked to
triumph over the righteous (1-11).
• an inquiry into the Lord’s inaction (vv. 1, 2)
• a description of the actions of the wicked (vv. 3–11)

He then appeals to the Lord to act, to set the matter right, confident that the King of the world will do so
(12-18).
• a renewed call for the Lord to rise in judgment (vv. 12, 13)
• a confession of trust in the Lord’s final judgment (vv. 14, 15)
• a presentation of praise to God who is King (vv. 16–18).

This prayer asks God to rise up in justice against “the man of the earth” (or “man who is of the earth” --
Ps. 10:18). The psalm describes this person as “wicked.” Notice what characterizes him:
• arrogant pride and boasting
• mistreatment of the poor
• carefully devised plots
• greedy friends
• disdain and disrespect for God
• ignorance of pain, failure, and misfortune
• disrespect for his enemies who are the righteous ones
• curses
• lies
• trouble and evil speech
• murder
• the assumption that he will never be caught

People that fit this description can be found in newspaper stories on any day of the week. They
range from street thugs to professional people who criminals. They may or may not use violence. But
one thing they have in common is that they prey on the weak, the defenseless, and the powerless.

But Psalm 10 assures us that when we oppose evil, in all its individual and institutional forms,
we are joined by the Lord. Ultimately, He will prevail and bring long-overdue justice to the “fatherless
and the oppressed.” Meanwhile, believers are to work toward that end now.

If you look at this book prophetically you see the deceitful career of the Antichrist. Through
pride and boasting, the Antichrist will attempt to deceive the entire world -- oppressing the righteous
and lurking in hiding places for the saints (Rev. 13 – 19).

As the psalm ends with thanksgiving to the Lord, the great King, we see He is The LORD the
King forever and ever (29:10, 146:10). The Antichrist cannot stop the establishment of God’s kingdom.
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God will hear the believer’s humble prayer. And the man of the earth, satan, will be defeated by the
man from heaven (Rev. 11 – 21).

Psalm Type No. 8 - The Pilgrimage Psalms:


Also known as Songs of Zion, these psalms were sung by pilgrims traveling up to Jerusalem for the
three annual religious feasts of Passover, Pentecost and Tabernacles (see 43; 46; 48; 76; 84; 87; 120–
133, 134).

In contrast to the “cursing” psalms, the Pilgrim and prophetic Passover psalms are joyful. They
became a part of the Passover celebration in Judaism. These psalms are a remarkable celebration of
the great acts of the Lord in delivering His people from Egypt, which is the theme of the Passover
celebration. They point forward to the deliverance that would come through the Savior Jesus.

Background for Psalm 133

It has been called “A Psalm of Brotherhood,” and it certainly is a psalm of fellowship. Not only
did this pilgrim come to Jerusalem with his wife and children, but he is with friends. They are having a
wonderful time of fellowship together.

V. 1 -- As believers, we are told to endeavor to “… keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of
peace” (Eph. 4:3). Believers are one in the Risen Lord. It is good and agreeable to the will of God to be
in unity. It is pleasant and pleasing to God and all men; it brings constant delight to those who do live in
unity.

V. 2 -- It is fragrant as the holy anointing oil, which was strongly perfumed to the delight of the
bystanders. And it was so plentiful that it ran down to the bottom of his garment. This verse also refers
to the time that Aaron was anointed high priest. It also speaks of the priesthood of the Lord Jesus the
Messiah. Someone has said that in this verse you have the fragrance of a lovely rose. This precious
ointment was put on the priest to indicate that he was a priest unto God. We see that this is a picture of
the Lord Jesus the Messiah. Not only is He King but He is also our High Priest. It is said of Him in
Psalm 45:7 that He is anointed “… with the oil of gladness above [His] fellows.”

In Ezekiel 39:29 we read, “Neither will I hide my face any more from them: for I have poured out my
spirit upon the house of Israel, said the Lord GOD.” Ezekiel speaks of a future day, and like that
ointment that ran down on Aaron, so will God pour out His Spirit. This is the meaning, by the way, of
Joel’s prophecy of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the “Israel of a coming day,” which was fulfilled
on the day of Pentecost.

However, in our day we are baptized with the Holy Spirit when we believe, which puts us into the
body of believers, and Jesus is our Great High Priest. Since this is true, we should attempt to keep the
unity the Holy Spirit made and give off the fragrance of the risen Messiah in our lives.

The psalmist concludes by saying that for brethren to dwell together in unity is “as the dew of
Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion.” This high mountain is located to
the north of Israel. It received such large amounts of water that it seemed to be a source of moisture for
the lands below. Similarly, the blessings of God flow to His people. Where do we receive the blessing?

----“for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” [Ps. 133:3]
---- “there” means where the people are in unity in the Lord.
What kind of blessings are they? Commanded blessings. These are blessings according to the
promise – his covenant forever.

Group work:

Divide into groups of 3. Using the questions from lesson 3, discuss and write out the answers to the
questions. Use Psalm 3.

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Lesson 5

Key No. 9 - Key Dates


The individual psalms may have been written at dates extending from the Exodus to the restoration
after the Babylonian exile. But the small collections seem to have been gathered at specific periods in
Israel’s history, such as the reign of King David (1 Chr. 23:5), the rule of Hezekiah (2 Chr. 29:30), and
during the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah (Neh. 12:24).

For the teacher:


You can put this chart on the board in a simple diagram and discuss.
1400

1000

971

931

722

500
BC

BC

BC

BC

BC

BC
Restorat
Solomo

Divided
Kingdo
Moses

David

Exile

ion
m
n

Ps. 90 Most of the Ps. 137 Ps. 126


Psalms were
written in this time.
For the Teacher:

1. Prepare handout for the translated Doxologies


2. Give each person a copy of these.
3. Ask the students if they have a definition of the word “Doxology?” Discuss Doxology.

Key No. 10 - Key Doxologies:

As you look at “A sketch of Psalms’ and Appendix A, there are five groups of Psalms. These
end with a doxology. You may see these as a clue to the content of each of the five divisions. These
doxologies will reveal a certain conception of God and an attitude of the soul in worship resulting from
that conception.

DOXOLOGY — a declaration of praise to God or a brief hymn expressing His power and glory.
The word itself does not appear in the Bible, but the concept is certainly present. Several passages in
the Bible are called doxologies because of their clear declaration of praise to God.

Volume I, Psalm 41:13 – God the Provider of our blessings.

This psalm begins with a blessing of God on the righteous; it ends with the righteous blessing
their Lord. The word here for blessed may be different from the word in v. 1. Here the word
identifies the Lord as the source of our blessing.

The word Amen, meaning “surely” and “let it be,” is an affirmation of faith in God. It is simply
saying “yes” to God. The repetition of the word parallels the repetition of the word everlasting and
expresses enthusiastic agreement with the praise in the psalm.

Volume II, Psalm 72:18, 19 - God the Mighty One who cares for His children

The repetition of the word blessed, (v.16), and the double Amen all indicate that this
psalm was used in the worship of God in His temple.

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Volume III, Psalm 89:52 - God is faithful
Faithfulness is a key word in this psalm (vv. 1, 2, 5, 8, 24, 33). God’s faithfulness is seen
from generation to generation (vv. 1–4), among His people (vv. 5–10), in creation (vv. 11–13),
among the nations (vv. 14–18), and toward David and his family (vv. 19–37). Ethan, the writer of
the psalm, knew all of this because he knew the Scriptures. But recent events seemed to deny
the truthfulness of the covenant and the faithfulness of the Lord.
89:52 But in the closing verse faith triumphs. Though Ethan cannot see the answer to his
perplexity, he can still bless Jehovah. It is as if he is saying, “Lord, I can’t understand but I will still
trust.” So he ends his prayer on the high note, “Blessed be the LORD forevermore! Amen and
Amen.”

Volume IV, Psalm 106:48 - God is Merciful and Faithful


This psalm is one of national lament, though it might also be classified as a historical
psalm. In this psalm the emphasis is on the people’s faithlessness and the Lord’s justice. Which
was opposite of Psalm 136.
Verse 47 has been interpreted to imply that the setting of the psalm was the Babylonian
captivity.
Second, a confession of Israel’s past sins (vv. 6–46) takes up the bulk of the psalm.
Finally, the psalmist concludes with a twofold petition, save us … gather us, with a twofold
purpose, to give thanks … and to triumph (v. 47).

In verse 48, it reads, blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to
everlasting. Not only is this verse a fitting conclusion but it also concludes this book of the
Psalms (Book IV). And let all the people say, Amen. The other doxologies end with Amen, and
Amen, but here the single Amen is used in order to give way to a Hallelujah. Praise you the
LORD.

Volume V, Psalm 150:6 - God is worthy! He alone is worthy of praise.

Who should praise Him? “Everything that has breath” (v. 6). But things that do not have
breath praise Him (Ps. 148:7–9), so we have even more reason to do so! Our breath comes from
Him (Acts 17:25), so we ought to use it to praise His name. Breath is the weakest thing we have,
but we can devote it to the highest service, praising the Lord.

Questions?
1. From the chart where are the doxologies located in each book?
Book I - 41:13; Book II – 72:18 – 19; Book III – 89:52; Book IV – 106:48; Book V – 150:6
2. What is characteristic of these doxologies?

Psalm Types

Psalm Type No. 9 - Messianic Psalms (Psalms 22, 23, 24)

These psalms refer in some sense to the Savior, the Messiah, who will come from David’s line.
They foretell the coming of the Messiah and His ministry. In fact, they make little sense unless read
with Jesus in mind. Jesus said, “All things must be fulfilled, which were written in the ….psalms
concerning me” (Luke 24:44). Psalms can explain a great deal about the ministry of the Savior.
Nine of the Messianic psalms are called Royal Psalms because they exalt Jesus as the King of
the nations (Ps. 2,18,20,21,24,45,61,72,110, and 132).
Ten messianic Psalms are called Prophetic Psalms because they tell of the coming of the
Messiah (8, 16, 23, 40, 45, 68, 72, 97, 110, and 118).
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Six are called Passion Psalms because they describe Jesus’ suffering in death on the cross
(22, 35, 41, 64, 69, and 109) .

Background for Psalm 22

These three familiar and beloved psalms present the Messiah as the Shepherd, each one
emphasizing a different aspect of His Person and His work.

• Psalm 22 pictures the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep (John 10:11)
• Psalm 23 pictures the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep (Heb. 13:20-21)
• Psalm 24 pictures the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep (1 Peter 5:4)

In other words, Jesus the Messiah died for us (past), Jesus lives for us (present), and Jesus the Lord
will come for us (future).
I. THE GOOD SHEPHERD (22)

This psalm presents the crucifixion of the Messiah in vv. 1-21 and His resurrection in vv. 22-31.
Since the Jews did not know of crucifixion back in David’s time, this vivid description of the
Messiah’s death on the cross could only have been written by inspiration of the Spirit. It is interesting to
contrast the two sections of this psalm. In vv. 1-21, we see the Messiah’s suffering and crucifixion, while
in vv. 22-31, we see His glory and resurrection. The first passage depicts pain and prayer; the second
passage depicts praise and promise. And the first shows the Risen Lord in the midst of His enemies;
the second, the Risen Lord in the midst of the church.

It is not difficult to see the fulfillment of this chapter in the NT story of the cross:
v. 1 Jesus spoke these words (Matt. 27:46; Mark 15:34)
v. 2 Alternate light and darkness (Matt. 27:45)
vv. 6-8 The reproach of the people (Matt. 27:39-44)
vv. 11-12 No help was offered Him (Matt. 26:56)
v. 16 His hands and feet pierced (Matt. 27:35)
v. 17 People staring at Him (Luke 23:35)
v. 18 Gambling for His garments (John 19:23-24)

At v. 22, the scene changes and we move to resurrection. See Heb. 2:11-12 for the NT explanation
of this. The Messiah is no longer on the cross; He is in the midst of His brethren (the church) declaring
the glory of God.

Verse 24 must be read in connection with Heb. 5:7. This final section is filled with praise: in the
church (v. 22), in Israel (vv. 23-26), and among the Gentiles (vv. 27-31).

Verse 31 ends, “He has done this,” paralleling Jesus’ words, “It is finished.” Because of the
Messiah’s work on the cross, salvation has been accomplished and all who come to Him by faith will be
saved.

Questions:
1. What does this Psalm represent?
2. Can you see the crucifixion in these verses?
3. When was this Psalm written?
4. Do you see the prophetic words written about Jesus’ death and resurrection?

Background for Psalm 23

For the Teacher:


Prepare Appendix H and give to the participants.

II. THE GREAT SHEPHERD (23)

Hebrews 13:20-21 informs us that today Jesus is the Great Shepherd who cares for the sheep. We
are His sheep, and as we follow Him He ministers to us. The Messiah did not simply die for us but He
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rose again and lives for us. He is the Great Shepherd, the Great High Priest. “I shall not want” is the
theme of Ps. 23. “I shall not want” for:

• rest and refreshment (v. 2)


• restoration and righteousness (v. 3)
• protection in trouble (v. 4)
• provision in the wilderness (v. 5)
• a home to go to at the end of the day (v. 6)

Of course, the picture here is that of the Oriental shepherd and his flock. Illustrate on the board.
(You can pass out Chart I)
1. Such a shepherd knows each sheep by name. The shepherd goes before the sheep and
makes sure they are not walking into danger (John 10:27-28). The sheep never need worry
when they follow the shepherd, for he will protect them and provide for them.
2. Even when they go through a dangerous valley (v. 4), or are attacked by animals, the
shepherd is beside them, protecting them with his rod and staff. Beyond the valley is the
house of rest.
3. At the end of the day, the shepherd leads the flock back to the fold and stands by the open
door of the pin to examine each one as it enters. If he sees one that is bruised or weary, he
puts the refreshing oil upon it to soothe and heal it, and gives it a drink of cool water. How
gracious our Shepherd is to care for us!

• Each of the OT names for God is seen in this psalm:


• Jehovah-Jireh” - The Lord will provide” (Gen. 22:13-14)
• Jehovah-Rapha” - The Lord will heal or restore” (Ex. 15:26)
• Jehovah-Shalom” - The Lord our peace” (Jdg. 6:24)
• Jehovah-Tsidkenu” - The Lord our righteousness” (Jer. 23:6)
• Jehovah-Shammah” - “The Lord is there” (Ezek. 48:35)
• Jehovah-Nissi “ - The Lord our banner” (Ex. 17:8-15)
• Jehovah-Raah “ - The Lord my shepherd” (Ps. 23:1).

In other words, Jesus the Messiah is to His sheep all that they ever need. A little child once
said when misquoting this psalm, “The Lord is my shepherd—what more shall I want?”

For teacher:
1. Looking at the 23rd Psalm, match the names of God with what God does on Appendix H.
2. Have the students fill in the blanks with the appropriate Names of God.

Background for Psalm 24:

III. THE CHIEF SHEPHERD (24)

For the reading of the 24th Psalm:

From the group, select 5 solo “readers”. They will shout loudly!!
No. 1 Reader –verse 3
No. 2 Reader – verse 4
No. 3 Reader – verse 5
No. 4 Reader – verse 7
No. 5 Reader – verse 10 (first line)

The group – verses 1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 (last two lines). The last 2 lines will be shouted loudly.

Jewish tradition says that this psalm was written to commemorate David’s returning the ark to
Jerusalem (1 Chron. 13-15). Retell the story in a shortened version.

It was probably sung by different choirs and soloists, each answering the other.
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• The choir would sing vv. 1-2
• a voice would respond with v. 3
• then another voice would answer with v. 4
• Then the choir would sing vv. 5-6
• Then another voice would respond with v. 7
• As the people entered the gates of the city, the choir would sing out vv. 8-9
• and the voice would ask again, “Who is this king of glory?” v. 10a
• Then the entire group would shout, “The Lord of hosts! He is the king of glory!” v. 10b

What a wonderful spectacle it must have been!


But an even greater wonder awaits Jerusalem when the Chief Shepherd, Jesus the risen Lord,
appears to claim David’s throne. This psalm describes the return of the King to Zion. (Read Rev.
19:11-16.)

This present earth is under the influence of sin and Satan. Though it is the Lord’s by creation and
redemption, it has not yet been delivered from bondage. But thank God, one day Jesus will return to the
earth to claim His inheritance. Then the earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord.

The question in v. 3 is important: who is worthy to rule over the earth from Mt. Zion? It reminds us
of Rev. 5 when the question is asked, “Who is worthy to open the book and break the seals?”

There can be only one answer: Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. Psalm 24:4 describes Him
as the Perfect Man, the Perfect King. David did not have clean hands, for he murdered a man; nor did
he have a pure heart, for he lusted and committed adultery. He lifted up his soul to vanity and pride
when he numbered the people. Solomon could not qualify for he was an idolater. Even great King
Hezekiah fell because of pride. No, the only king who can qualify is Jesus the Messiah.

When Jesus the Risen Lord claims Jerusalem, He will come as one fresh from the battle (v. 8),
for He will have defeated the nations of the world at Armageddon (Rev. 19:19-21). Before Jesus was
born, it was promised that He would sit on David’s throne (Luke 1:30-33).

Today He is seated on His Father’s throne (Rev. 3:21) in Heaven, but when He returns to this
earth in judgment and glory, He will claim David’s throne and reign over the house of Jacob.

Of course, He will first return in the air to take the church to heaven (1 Thes. 4:13-18). Then
will follow seven years of awful tribulation on the earth - “the time of Jacob’s trouble.” When Satan and
his evil associates have done their worst, Jesus the Risen Lord will return to judge and to deliver the
world from evil. Then there will be a renewed earth, a restored Israel and a righteous kingdom for a
thousand years (Rev. 20:1-5).

If Jesus the Messiah is your Good Shepherd because you have received Him as Savior, then
let Him be your Great Shepherd to guide and bless your life. Then when He returns as the Chief
Shepherd, you will be ready to meet Him.

For the Teacher:


Have the students look up and read these verse in their Bibles.

The Messiah of the Psalms

Psalm Portrayal Fulfilled


2:7 The Son of God Matthew 3:17
8:2 Praised by children Matthew 21:15, 16
8:6 Ruler of all Hebrews 2:8
16:10 Rises from death Matthew 28:7
22:1 Forsaken by God Matthew 27:46
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22:7, 8 Derided by enemies Luke 23:35
22:16 Hands and feet pierced John 20:27
22:18 Lots cast for clothes Matthew 27:35, 36
34:20 Bones unbroken John 19:32, 33, 36
35:11 Accused by false witnesses Mark 14:57
35:19 Hated without cause John 15:25
40:7, 8 Delights in God’s will Hebrews 10:7
41:9 Betrayed by a friend Luke 22:47
45:6 The eternal King Hebrews 1:8
68:18 Ascends to heaven Acts 1:9–11
69:9 Zealous for God’s house John 2:17
69:21 Given vinegar and gall Matthew 27:34
109:4 Prays for enemies Luke 23:34
109:8 His betrayer replaced Acts 1:20
110:1 Rules over His enemies Matthew 22:44
110:4 A priest forever Hebrews 5:6
118:22 The chief stone of God’s building Matthew 21:42
118:26 Comes in the name of the Lord Matthew 21:9

Psalms Type No. 10 - Praise Psalms:


These psalms focus on the person of God and praise Him by describing His nature and
qualities (Ps. 33, 103, 139, 150).

Many Psalms describe the characteristics of God:


ƒ God’s majesty, wisdom, and power – Ps. 18 - 20
ƒ God’s mercy - Ps. 32, 85, 136
ƒ God’s infinite knowledge – Psalm 139
ƒ His creative power – Ps. 33, 89, 104

The first believers who met together were comprised mainly of Jewish people, so it was natural
that they incorporated the singing of psalms, hymns and spiritual songs in their worship (Col. 3:16).

Background for Psalm 150:

For teacher:
Give out Appendix I.

Psalm 1 contains six verses and speaks of the man who is blessed.
Psalm 150 also contains six verses but speaks of the God who is praised.

No more fitting conclusion to the book could have been written!!

While the other four books of the Psalms end with a brief verse or two of doxology, Psalm 150
in its entirety forms the doxology to complete the fifth book.

Use the following as discussion questions:


As the final song of praise, it appropriately answers four key questions about praise.

1. Where should God be praised? Everywhere, from His sanctuary on earth to His heavenly
creation (v. 1).
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2. Why should God be praised? For His powerful deeds on behalf of men and for His inherent
greatness (v. 2).
3. How should God be praised? With every suitable instrument man can offer with his God-
given creativity and artistry (vv. 3–5). See Appendix I for musical instruments.
4. Who should praise God? Everything that breathes (v. 6).

Are these also our reasons for praising God?

Though every verse of the psalm is cast in the form of a call to praise, the hymn is certainly
prophetic of a day when every creature will in fact bow in praise to the Almighty God (Phil. 2:11;
Rev. 5:8–14).

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Supplementary Material

37
A SKETCH OF PSALMS:

Vol. 1, #1 - 41
Writer…………… David
Theme division…. “ Creation, Man, Sin
and Redemption”
Compiler……….. King David
Date…………….. (1020-970 BC)

Vol. 2, #42 - 72
David and Korah
“Deliverance and
Redemption”
King Hezekiah
(970-610 BC)

Vol. 3, #73 - 89
Asaph and descendants
“Tabernacle and God’s
holiness”
King Josiah
(970-610 BC)

Vol. 4., #90 - 106


David and others
“Wilderness and
Wanderings”
Ezra the Priest
(609-430 BC)

Vol. 5, #107-150
David and others
“Scripture, Thanksgiving
and Praise”
Nehemiah the Governor
and Leader
(609 – 430 BC)

38
Appendix A

N DOXO
Book Writers And Chapters o. Period Compiled LOGY

Book I David 2-9, 11-32, 34-41 38


Chapters 1-41 Probably 41:13
Total Chapters King by
41 Anonymous 3 David David

David 51 – 65, 68 – 70 18

Asaph 50 1
72:18
Solomon 72 1 - 19

Book II Sons of Korah 8


Chapters 42 – 72 In
Total Chapters King Hezekiah’s
31 Anonymous 66 – 67, 71 3 Hezekiah Reign

David 86 1

Asaph 73 – 83 11

89:52
Sons of Korah 84, 85, 87 3

Book III Heman 88 1 King


Chapters 73 – 89 Hezekiah
Total Chapters to King In Josiah’s
17 Ethan 89 1 Manasseh Reign
After
Captivity
David 95, 96, 101, 103, 105 5 In the time
Of
Book IV Nehemiah 106:48
Chapters 90 – Moses 90 1 (Ezra may
106 Manasseh have
Total Chapters Anonymous 91 – 94, 97 – 100, 102, To compiled
17 104, 106 11 Captivity them)

David 108 – 110, 122, 124, 131, 133,


138 – 145 15

Solomon 127 1 150:


Anonymous 107, 111 – 121, 123, 1–6
Book V 125 – 126, 128, 130, 132, 134 – 137,
Chapters 107 – 146 – 150
150 Return Time
Total Chapters Hezekiah might have written some from Of
44 Psalms 10 Captivity Nehemiah

39
Appendix B
Psalm 1

“ The Lord Knows the Way of the


Righteous, But the Way of the Ungodly
Shall Perish. “ Psalm 1:6

Outcome: Outcome:

1. 1.

2. 2.

3. 3.

1.

2.

3.

Decisions based on…… Decisions based……..

1. 1.

2. 2.

3.

40
Appendix C
Psalm 119

41
Appendix D
Psalm 19

42
Appendix E
PSALM 32

3-4

6-7

8 –11

43
Appendix F
Psalm 34

What is David Doing? WHY ?


1-3 4-10

What Does David


Teach About
God?
11 - 22

44
Appendix G
Psalm 10

The Wicked Man:

Feelings
Action
Belief

David:

Feelings
Action
Belief

45
Appendix H
Psalm 23

1 –2 3

_____________, ______________ _____________________, _____________

_____________, _______________

4 5-6

___________________ _________________________

Appendix I

Hebrew Musical Instruments


46
Psalm Numbering System for Russian and Kazakh

Kazah/ Kazak/ Kazah/ Kazak/


English Russian English Russian English Russian English Russian
1. 1 38 37 75 74 112 111
2. 2 39 38 76 75 113 112
3. 3 40 39 77 76 114 113
4. 4 41 40 78 77 115 114
5. 5 42 41 79 78 116 115
6. 6 43 42 80 79 117 116
7. 7 44 43 81 80 118 117
8. 8 45 44 82 81 119 118
9. 9a 46 45 83 82 120 119
10. 9b 47 46 84 83 121 120
11. 10 48 47 85 84 122 121
12. 11 49 48 86 85 123 122
13. 12 50 49 87 86 124 123
14. 13 51 50 88 87 125 124
15. 14 52 51 89 88 126 125
16. 15 53 52 90 89 127 126
17. 16 54 53 91 90 128 127
18. 17 55 54 92 91 129 128
19. 18 56 55 93 92 130 129
20. 19 57 56 94 93 131 130
21. 20 58 57 95 94 132 131
22. 21 59 58 96 95 133 132
23. 22 60 59 97 96 134 133
24. 23 61 60 98 97 135 134
25. 24 62 61 99 98 136 135
26. 25 63 62 100 99 137 136
27. 26 64 63 101 100 138 137
28. 27 65 64 102 101 139 138
29. 28 66 65 103 102 140 139
30. 29 67 66 104 103 141 140
31. 30 68 67 105 104 142 141
32. 31 69 68 106 105 143 142
33. 32 70 69 107 106 144 143
34. 33 71 70 108 107 145 144
35. 34 72 71 109 108 146 145
36. 35 73 71 110 109 147 146/147
37. 36 74 73 111 110 148 148
149 149
150 150

47
For Further Study and Training in
Righteousness

Doctrine Bible
2. Pastoral Letters
1. Servant Leadership
(1 - 2 Timothy, Titus)
3. Personal Evangelism I
4. Romans
(The Camel Method)
5. Personal Evangelism II
6. Theology of Genesis
(Chronological Storying)
7. Believer’s Lifestyle 8. 1 Corinthians
9. Spiritual Warfare 10. Ephesians
11. Church Planting 12. The Gospel of John
13. Doctrine of the
14. Acts 1 – 12
Holy Spirit
16. Acts 13 – 28
15. Bible Interpretation
(The Ministry of Paul)
17. Doctrine of Salvation 18. Exodus
20. The Journeys of Jesus
19. The Godhead
(Synoptic Gospels)
21. Spiritual Disciplines 22. Galatians
23. Old Testament Survey 24. Hebrews
25. Stewardship 26. Psalms
27. Personal Evangelism III

A program of:
CA SALT: Servant And Leadership Training

November, 2001

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