Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 50

This psalm of Asaph examines what God desires from His people, who are in covenant with Him.

1-6: God the Judge summons all heaven and earth to his judgment seat

7-15: True sacrifice is thanksgiving, not offering animals

16-21: True righteousness is in right living, not mere religious profession

22-23: God desires true sacrifice and true righteousness from His people

The psalm begins with a picture of a courtroom where God summons His people to deliver His verdict on their ways. All heaven and earth tremble at his arrival.

The first discourse and verdict address the sacrifices of God’s people and establish that the true sacrifice God desires from His people is thanksgiving. He also reminds them to pay their vows.

The second discourse and verdict speak to the wicked and convict them of indiscipline, disobedience, evil company, and evil speech. Identifying with God is useless if we live in dishonour of His commands.

The last two verses close this psalm by summarizing these two requirements – true sacrifice (thanksgiving) and true righteousness (right living) – with a warning of divine judgment if left unattended.