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The Psalms 33
Introduction: 1. Jesus indicated in Luke 24:44 that the Psalms are included in the Old Testament Scriptures. 2. According to Romans 15:4, we must study the Psalms carefully because they "were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope." 3. Throughout their history, the Israelites went through a number of periods when they were under the control of idol worshippers, including: a. the Egyptians b. the Canaanite nations c. the Babylonians. 4. A number of the Psalms were designed to help the Israelites remain faithful to God during times such as these. 5. This lesson is a study of Psalm 115. a. We do not know who wrote this Psalm, and we do not know when it was written. b. However, its purpose was to encourage God's people to remain faithful to Him, even though their unbelieving enemies may have temporarily been in control. Discussion: I. (vs.1) GOD IS TO BE GLORIFIED A. (vs.1a) Man deserves no glory. B. (vs.1b) However, God deserves to be glorified for: 1. His "mercy" 2. His "truth's sake." C. We can readily see why God is to be glorified when . . . II. (vs.2-7) GOD IS COMPARED TO IDOLS A. (vs.2) Heathens may wonder about God's existence and where He is located, especially when they are controlling His people (Exodus 5:1-2; Daniel 3:14-15). B. God is: 1. in heaven (vs.3a; Acts 17:22-26) 2. in control (vs.3b; Daniel 4:34-37). C. Idols: 1. are made of various materials by men (vs.4; Isaiah 40:18-20) 2. are unable to speak, see, hear, smell, feel, or walk. D. God demonstrated His power over idols, including: 1. Baal (1 Kings 18:25-39) 2. Dagon (Judges 16:23-30; 1 Samuel 5:1-7). III. (vs.8-16) PEOPLE WHO TRUST IN IDOLS ARE CONTRASTED WITH PEOPLE WHO TRUST IN GOD A. (vs.8) People who make and trust in idols "are like unto them" (Psalm 135:15-18). B. (vs.9-11) For Israel, the house of Aaron, and those who fear the Lord, "He is their help and their shield." C. (vs.12-16) God will bless those who serve Him faithfully. IV. (vs.17-18) THE WRITER EXHORTED HIS PEOPLE TO BLESS GOD CONTINUALLY | ||