Psalm 14/Full

Authorship

This Psalm was authored by David.

Outline

(This began as Wendland's Expository Outline, but may be adapted.)

I. The arrogant claim of fools. (1)

A. The fool claims there is no God.

The word “fool” in this chapter means “morally perverse.”

II. The attitude of fools. (1)

A. They are corrupt.

The word “corrupt” is the same used to describe conditions in Noah’s time.

B. They have done abominable works.

C. There is none that do good.

III. The analysis of fools. (2-3)

A. God looks for those who understand and seek Him.

B. God finds:

1. They are all gone aside.

2. They are totally filthy (tainted).

3. There is none that do good--not one.

IV. The actions of fools:

A. They work iniquity.

B. They attack God’s people.

C. They do not call on the Lord.

D. They shame the poor.

V. The admonitions. (5-7)

A. Fear God and be part of the generation of the righteous.

B. Don’t shame the poor who have made the Lord their refuge.

C. Wait for the salvation of Israel to come out of Zion.

VI. The announcement: When the Lord reverses the captivity of His people, there will be gladness and rejoicing.

Textual Criticism

The following is from Barthélemy's Critique textuelle de l’Ancien Testament volume on the Psalms. For a key to the various symbols and abbreviations, click here.

Ps 14,5 פָּחַד {B} MT, α'σ'θ', Hebr, S, T // assim 53,6: G + οὗ οὐκ ἦν φόβος