PSALMS
Context
Psalms is the longest book in the Bible, containing 150 songs, prayers, and poems that have been used for worship and devotion for thousands of years. These sacred songs express every human emotion and experience in relationship with God, from deep despair to exuberant praise.
Written by various authors over several centuries (from Moses to post-exilic times), the Psalms serve as the prayer book and hymnbook of God's people, providing words for every season of life and every aspect of worship.
Summary
Book 1: Psalms 1-41 (Davidic Psalms)
The first book contains mostly psalms of David, focusing on individual lament and praise. Key psalms include Psalm 1 (the blessed man), Psalm 23 (the Lord is my shepherd), and Psalm 22 (the suffering servant, messianic prophecy of Christ's crucifixion).
Book 2: Psalms 42-72 (Korahite and Davidic)
This section includes psalms by the sons of Korah and more Davidic psalms. Notable psalms include Psalm 51 (David's repentance after sinning with Bathsheba), Psalm 46 (God is our refuge), and Psalm 72 (the righteous king).
Book 3: Psalms 73-89 (Asaph and Others)
This book contains psalms by Asaph and others, dealing with themes of God's justice, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the Davidic covenant. Psalm 89 reflects on God's faithfulness to His promises despite current circumstances.
Books 4-5: Psalms 90-150 (Moses to Post-Exilic)
The final books include Psalm 90 by Moses, many anonymous psalms, and post-exilic compositions. Key psalms include Psalm 110 (messianic prophecy of Christ's priesthood), Psalm 119 (the longest psalm, celebrating God's law), and the final psalms of praise (146-150).
Practice Questions & Answers
Psalms is a collection of 150 songs, prayers, and poems that express the full range of human emotions and experiences in relationship with God. It serves as the prayer book and hymnbook of God's people throughout history.
The Psalms were written by various authors including David (73 psalms), Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses, and others, spanning from the time of Moses to the post-exilic period. They were compiled over several centuries.
The main types include: lament psalms (crying out to God in distress), praise psalms (celebrating God's greatness), thanksgiving psalms (expressing gratitude), wisdom psalms (teaching about life), and royal psalms (about the king).
Many psalms are messianic, prophesying about Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Psalm 22 describes Christ's crucifixion, Psalm 110 speaks of His eternal priesthood, and many others point to His coming kingdom and reign.
The Psalms teach us to be honest with God about our emotions, to praise Him in all circumstances, to seek His guidance, and to trust in His faithfulness. They show that worship involves the whole person—heart, mind, and soul.