The Lord Heals the Broken in Heart (Psalm 147:1-5)
Introduction:
1. Like many of the other Psalms, Psalm 147 begins with an exhortation for the Lord's people to praise Him. 2. Giving praise to the Lord is described as "good" and "pleasant." 3. The writer continued by showing why the Lord deserves praise from His people. 4. In our lesson we are concentrating on one particular matter addressed in vs.3a -- "He healeth the broken in heart." 5. Let us begin by showing how . . . Discussion: I. A BROKEN HEART IS A REQUIREMENT FOR BEING IN GOOD STANDING WITH THE LORD
A. David made this point very clearly in Psalm 51:17. 1. David had committed adultery and murder, and he was asking God to forgive him (vs.1-2). 2. As he pleaded with God to forgive him, David pointed out in vs.17 that a broken heart is a requirement for being in good standing with God. 3. David also showed in Psalm 32:1-2 that a forgiven person is truly blessed. B. The publican in the Lord's parable also illustrates the point (Luke 18:13-14a). C. Let us turn our attention to the fact that . . . II. JESUS CAME TO HEAL THE BROKEN HEARTED
A. Isaiah made a very important prophecy in this regard (Isaiah 61:1-2). B. According to Luke 4:16-21, Jesus fulfilled this prophecy. C. Note especially that the Father sent Jesus "to heal the brokenhearted." D. To summarize,: 1. A broken heart is a requirement for being in good standing with the Lord. 2. Jesus came to heal the broken hearted. III. THE SCRIPTURES SHOW HOW THE LORD HEALED THE BROKEN HEARTS OF MANY PEOPLE
A. The Lord healed the broken hearts of thousands on Pentecost (Acts 2:37-47). B. The Lord healed Saul's broken heart. 1. Saul persecuted the church (Acts 8:3; 9:1-2). 2. In Acts 9:9 we read about his reaction to speaking with the Lord. 3. He responded to the teaching of Ananias (Acts 9:17-18; Acts 22:16). 4. Note the change that took place in Saul's life (Acts 9:19-22). C. The Lord healed the broken heart of the jailer in Philippi (Acts 16:26-34). D. The Lord healed the broken heart of Simon (Acts 8:13, 18-24). Conclusion:
1. Our study should help us to appreciate the words found in Psalm 147:1, 3. 2. The Lord offers His gracious invitation to us in Matthew 11:28-30.
