let us compare the righteous and the ungodly (psalm 1)
Introduction:
1. David's observation in Psalm 37:25 and the Lord's Beatitude in Matthew 5:6 help us to appreciate being righteous and pursuing righteousness. 2. This evening we are studying Psalm 1 that presents some valuable information about 2 groups of people: "the righteous" and "the ungodly." 3. By carefully examining this Psalm, we see that: a. both groups are described b. the destinies of both groups are revealed. 4. Let us first point out that . . . Discussion: I. A RIGHTEOUS PERSON IS DESCRIBED
A. According to vs.1, a righteous person must avoid 3 things. 1. First, a righteous person does not walk "in the counsel of the ungodly." a. "The ungodly" are wicked unrighteous people. b. "The counsel" of such people must be avoided (Proverbs 4:14-17, 19). 2. Second, a righteous person does not stand "in the way of sinners." a. "Sinners" are those who habitually practice sin. b. "The way" of such people must be avoided (Proverbs 1:10-16). 3. Third, a righteous person does not sit "in the seat of the scornful." a. "The scornful" despise and have contempt for things that please God. b. "The seat" of such people must be avoided (Proverbs 22:10). B. Turning to the positive, we learn from vs.2 that a righteous person is devoted to 2 activities. 1. First, he delights "in the law of the Lord." 2. Second, he meditates on God's law continually (Psalm 119:97). C. As we consider what is written about a righteous person, we see that he will be blessed abundantly. 1. Vs.1 begins by stating that a righteous person is "blessed." 2. Furthermore,: a. he will be like the beautiful tree pictured in vs.3 b. whatever he does will prosper. D. (vs.6a) The Lord knows "the way of the righteous" (1 Peter 3:12). E. As we examine Psalm 1 further, we see that . . . II. UNGODLY PEOPLE ARE DESCRIBED
A. The ungodly include the wicked people listed in vs.1, including: 1. "the ungodly" 2. "sinners" 3. "the scornful." B. (vs.4) "The ungodly" are compared to the chaff driven away by the wind (Matthew 3:12). C. (vs.5) "The ungodly" will not be blessed. 1. They will not "stand in the judgment." 2. They will not be included with the righteous. D. (vs.6b) "The way of the ungodly shall perish." Conclusion:
1. Psalm 1 supplies some practical information that is designed to help us be among the righteous. 2. In closing let us be reminded of the information presented in: a. Psalm 37:25 b. Matthew 5:6 c. 1 John 3:7.
