PSALMS 1:1-12:8
THE PSALMS -- AN OVERVIEW
DATE: The Psalms were written over a period of about 900 years, from the time of Moses (90, written about 1405 b.c.) to the time of Israel's return from Babylonian exile (126, 147–150, written c. 500 b.c.).[1]
MAJOR CLASSIFICATIONS OF PSALMS:
* Praise psalms. These focus on the person of God and praise Him by describing His nature or His qualities. This type of psalm is illustrated by Psalms 33, 103, and 139.
* Historical/Wisdom psalms. These review God's dealings with His people. Illustrations are Psalms 68, 78, 105, and 106.
* Relational psalms. These psalms explore the personal relationship which exists between God and the believer. They are illustrated by Psalms 8, 16, 20, 23, and 55.
* Imprecatory psalms. These are psalms in which the worshiper calls on God to overthrow the wicked. Among them are Psalms 35, 69, 109, and 137.
* Penitential psalms. In these the psalmist expresses sorrow over his failures and confesses his sins to God. Examples are Psalms 6, 32, 51, 102, 130, and 143.
* Messianic psalms. These psalms refer in some way to Christ, who is to come from David's family line. Many such psalms are indicated by references in the New Testament. Psalms which the New Testament indicates refer to Christ are Psalms 2, 8, 16, 22, 40, 45, 69, 72, 89, 102, 109–110, and 132.
* Liturgical psalms. These are psalms which were used in Israel's worship at specific times of the year or on special occasions. Liturgical psalms may be illustrated by Psalms 30, 92, and Psalms 120–134.[2]
Psalm 1: The Way of Righteousness (An Historical/Wisdom Psalm)
Ø What actions does the Psalmist say describe the righteous?
Ø Notice the progression: "walk"; "stand"; "sit". How would you describe this progression? In this context is it a positive or negative progression?
Ø On what does the righteous "delight"?
Ø Application for us?
Psalm 2: God Wins (A Messianic Psalm)
Ø Who is ultimately in control of the affairs of the earth?
Ø Is there any way that earthly rulers can thwart the plans of God?
Ø How should earthly rulers respond to God?
Ø Application for us?
Psalms 3-7: God is the Gracious Deliverer (Lament Psalms)
Ø What is the historical context of these Psalms?
Ø On whom does David place his trust?
Ø Against whom are our earthly struggles? (See Eph. 6:12)
Ø Is there application for us today in these Psalms? If so, what might it be?
Psalm 8: A Prayer of Praise (Praise Psalms)
Ø List what David sees that causes him to break into praise.
Ø According to David, what has God done for man?
Ø Application for us?
Psalm 9: More Praise (Praise Psalm)
Ø Why is David praising God in this Psalm?
Ø What truth can we glean from this Psalm?
Ø Application for today?
Psalm 10: Good vs. Evil (Lament Psalm)
Ø What injustice does David see in this Psalm?
Ø Will evil ultimately triumph?
Ø Application for us?
Psalm 11: God is Our Refuge (Praise Psalm)
Ø How can man keep us from fleeing to the Lord?
Ø Is God aware of all the injustice on earth?
Ø Will He make it right in His time?
Psalm 12: Lord We Need Your Help (Lament Psalm)
Ø David feels totally alone. Is there ever a time when God's children are alone?
Ø Is there ever a time "when the godly are no more"?
Ø God has always maintained a remnant to His name and has been their Protector.
Ø Application for us?
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