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INTRO
This wisdom psalm basically functions as an introduction to the entire Book of Psalms. Its theme is as big as the whole Bible because it tells of people, paths, and ultimate destinations (for a significant parallel, see Jer. 17:5–8). By two elements of contrast, Psalm 1 separates all people into their respective spiritual categories:
By Observation, All People Are Separated Ethically (1:1–4)
A Picture of the Godly (1:1–3)
A Picture of the Ungodly (1:4)
By Outcome, All People Are Separated Judicially (1:5-6)
The Failure of Ungodly People (1:5)
The Fruition of Lifestyles (1:6)
Recognition of the godly (1:6a)
Ruination of the ungodly (1:6b)[1]
Two Lives. Two Paths. Two Outcomes.
The Blessed – vv. 1-3
Walk in the counsel of wicked
Considering.
Stands in the way of sinners
Contemplating.
Sits in the seats of scoffers
Comfortable.
Key is Spiritual Discernment
Ones walk. Purpose in life
A proper view of the world/sin
Our beliefs determine our actions and behavior
Delight
The Blessed DELIGHT IN THE THINGS OF GOD
HIS WORD. HIS TRUTH. HIS WAY
Spiritual happy. Desire
Becomes a pattern. Way of life.
For us today…
Love His Word
Read His Word
Trust His Word
Obey His Word
DELIGHT IN HIS WORD
The Fruits of the life
Stability and strength – planted by the waters
Fruit – yields in its season
Endurance – Does not wither
PROSPER IN ALL HE DOES
Inner peace and outward fruit.
The Wicked – vv. 4-6
THE OPPOSITE OF THE GODLY – vv. 1-2
Live a life of sin
Those that walks, stands, sits
No fruit
No Purpose. Peace
No direction CHAFF
WORTHLESS…blows around
Face the judgment of God
Will not stand… will not survive
Sinners not in the congregation of the righteous
One delights… the other despairs
We cannot live this life on our own merit, but thanks to the righteousness of Jesus Christ, it is possible. He accomplished what no one else could by living a perfect life on our behalf. When we repent of our sins and place our faith in Him, we are able to walk with Him, follow Him, and produce the fruits of repentance.
[1] John F. MacArthur Jr., The MacArthur Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2005), Ps 1:1–6.