Psalms 14 - Printer Friendly

What does Psalms 14 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

The opening line of this Psalm summarizes Scripture's assessment of those who reject God. The term used here for a "fool" is nābāl, which implies a stubborn, irrational form of willful ignorance. The problem with such persons is not poor intellect, or lack of evidence (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:18–20), but a choice in their will—in the heart (Jeremiah 17:9)—to live as if God does not exist (Psalm 14:1).

From God's eternal and holy perspective, the human race is like something beautiful which has been ruined or corrupted. The phrasing used here is echoed by Paul when he points out the universal sin nature of humanity (Romans 3:9–12). Even when a person tries to be "good," the effort is still tainted by the effects of sin (Isaiah 64:6). In this context, David is noting the complete depravity of those who reject even God's existence (Psalm 14:2–3).

Old Testament Scripture often uses the imagery of oppressors "eating" those they abuse (Proverbs 30:14; Psalm 27:1–2; Micah 3:1–3). Despite this, David is confident that those who refuse to acknowledge God will face judgment (Hebrews 10:31; Revelation 20:11–15). Though evil people often persecute others, believers can take comfort knowing that God will make all things right (John 16:33; Revelation 21:1–5). He remains a safe place, like a shelter, for those who believe in Him (Psalm 14:4–6).

The psalm ends with a hopeful look forward, to when Jesus comes back to establish His earthly kingdom (Revelation 19:11–16). This total victory is part of many Old Testament prophecies (Isaiah 9:6–7; Zechariah 13:1; Zephaniah 3:16–20). With this final triumph over sin, all of God's people will have reason to celebrate (Psalm 14:7).

Psalm 14:1–3 comments on the general state of humanity. Those who reject the existence of God are described as fools. Moral corruption is widespread, and the earth if filled with evildoers who refuse to seek God. Sin has tainted everything humanity does, and everyone has turned away from God.

Psalm 14:4–7 continues the description of the foolish persecutors of God's people. The focus shifts from their evil works to God's judgment and Israel's hope of deliverance. David contemplates the inauguration of the kingdom and Israel's prosperity and joy.

Chapter Summary:

David begins this psalm by describing those who live as if God does not exist as "fools." From God's perspective, the entire human race has become corrupt and estranged from God. Especially heinous are the evildoers who persecute the poor and weak. However, God stands up for the righteous and subjects the wicked to the terror of His judgment. Believers find their protection in the Lord. David concludes with a bright hope: a longing for God's kingdom to arrive. At that time, the Lord will bless Israel with fortunes, and Jacob's descendants will rejoice and be glad.

Chapter Context:

This psalm and Psalm 53 are extremely similar. Romans 3:10–12 quotes from these passages. Like previous psalms, this describes David's enemy as corrupt, ignorant of God, and thoroughly evil. The psalm ends with David's prayer for God to establish the kingdom for Israel.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

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