Reading: Theological Assumptions (Video Slides)

#19 The Theological Assumptions Undergirding the Psalms

Covenant Theology & the Psalms

• Yahweh is always acknowledged as the true King of Israel (e.g., 24, 93)
• “Zion” is Yahweh’s capital city (e.g., 48, 76, 84)
• The Covenant with David authenticates the right of this family to rule (e.g., 89, 110)
• Yahweh is also understood to be ruler over all nations (e.g., 2, 60, 87, 96, 97)
• Israel’s purpose is to be witness to the nations (e.g., 67, 87)
• Divine blessing is linked to covenant faithfulness and punishment to covenant curses (e.g., 15, 78, 79, 80, 81, 85, 101, 106, 107)
• Laments are based upon the right to plead for God’s covenant faithfulness, even when the people have sinned (e.g., 80, 109)
• Praise is an extension of the witness intended to be communicated through Israel (e.g., 113, 115, 117, 135, 145)

Engaging the Psalms

• Enjoy the poetic images: 19, 29, 104
• Rest in the gracious comfort: 23, 139
• Marvel in the compact simplicity: 1, 131
• Vocalize sorrow for sinfulness: 32, 51
• Express spiritual longing: 42-43, 73
• Ponder great evil and pain: 22, 88
• Gain a moral compass: 15, 107
• Learn the language of praise: 100, 145, 150