Psalms 12

Chapter Summary

Psalms 12 is a lamentation of the state of the world, where the faithful are few and the wicked abound. The psalmist begins by crying out to God, feeling abandoned and forsaken in a world where lies and flattery have become the norm (Psalms 12:1-2). He then describes the wicked, who speak with forked tongues, flattering and deceiving others for their own gain (Psalms 12:3-4). In contrast, the psalmist affirms his trust in God's word, which is pure and reliable (Psalms 12:6). The chapter concludes with a warning to the wicked and a reassurance to the faithful that God will ultimately vindicate them (Psalms 12:7-8).

Context for the Chapter

Psalms 12 is part of the larger collection of psalms, which were written over a period of several centuries. This chapter is likely a product of the post-exilic period, when the Israelites were struggling to rebuild their nation and their faith. The chapter's themes of deceit and wickedness are reminiscent of the prophetic writings, which condemned the Israelites for their idolatry and immorality. In the larger biblical narrative, Psalms 12 serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and trust in God, even in the darkest times.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Psalms 12, we are reminded of the importance of faithfulness and trust in God. In a world filled with deceit and wickedness, we must remain grounded in the scriptures and committed to speaking the truth. We must also be mindful of the dangers of flattery and deceit, and strive to cultivate a heart of integrity and honesty.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Psalms 12 is a chapter about the struggle of the faithful in a world filled with deceit and wickedness. The psalmist cries out to God for help, affirming his trust in God's pure and reliable word. We can learn from this chapter the importance of faithfulness and trust in God, even in the darkest times, as seen in Psalms 12:1 and Psalms 12:6.

Voices from the Church

“The psalmist's cry for help is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles. God is our refuge and our hope, even in the darkest times.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The purity of God's word is a comfort to the faithful, who are surrounded by the deceit and flattery of the wicked.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. The Cry for Help (Psalms 12:1-2) — The psalmist laments the scarcity of faithful men and the proliferation of deceit and flattery.
2. The Description of the Wicked (Psalms 12:3-4) — The chapter describes the wicked as those who speak with forked tongues, flattering and deceiving others for their own gain.
3. The Affirmation of Trust (Psalms 12:5-6) — The psalmist affirms his trust in God's word, which is pure and reliable, like silver refined in a furnace.
4. The Warning to the Wicked (Psalms 12:7-8) — The chapter concludes with a warning to the wicked and a reassurance to the faithful that God will ultimately vindicate them.
5. Conclusion (Psalms 12:8) — The psalmist concludes by reaffirming his trust in God, who will ultimately bring justice and righteousness to the world.

Core Doctrines

The Inspiration of Scripture

Psalms 12:6 reminds us of the purity and reliability of God's word, which is inspired by the Holy Spirit and profitable for teaching, rebuking, and training in righteousness.

The Nature of God

The chapter describes God as a refuge and a hope, who is faithful and trustworthy even in the darkest times.

The Importance of Faithfulness

The psalmist laments the scarcity of faithful men, highlighting the importance of trust and loyalty in a world filled with deceit.

The Consequences of Sin

The chapter warns of the dangers of deceit and flattery, and the ultimate judgment that will come upon the wicked.

Lessons from Psalms 12

1. The Importance of Trusting in God's Word — The chapter reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's word, which is pure and reliable.
2. The Dangers of Deceit and Flattery — The chapter warns of the dangers of deceit and flattery, and the ultimate judgment that will come upon the wicked.
3. The Importance of Faithfulness and Loyalty — The psalmist laments the scarcity of faithful men, highlighting the importance of trust and loyalty in a world filled with deceit.
4. The Nature of God as a Refuge and Hope — The chapter describes God as a refuge and a hope, who is faithful and trustworthy even in the darkest times.
5. The Ultimate Vindication of the Faithful — The chapter concludes with a reassurance to the faithful that God will ultimately vindicate them.

Themes from Psalms 12

1. The Struggle of the Faithful — The chapter describes the struggle of the faithful in a world filled with deceit and wickedness.
2. The Importance of God's Word — The psalmist affirms his trust in God's word, which is pure and reliable.
3. The Dangers of Deceit and Flattery — The chapter warns of the dangers of deceit and flattery, and the ultimate judgment that will come upon the wicked.
4. The Nature of God as a Refuge and Hope — The chapter describes God as a refuge and a hope, who is faithful and trustworthy even in the darkest times.
5. The Ultimate Vindication of the Faithful — The chapter concludes with a reassurance to the faithful that God will ultimately vindicate them.

Questions for Meditation

1. How do you respond when faced with deceit and wickedness in your own life?
2. What does it mean to trust in God's word, and how can you cultivate this trust in your own life?
3. How can you remain faithful and loyal in a world filled with flattery and deceit?
4. What does the chapter teach us about the nature of God, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
5. How can you warn others of the dangers of deceit and flattery, and encourage them to trust in God's word?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Psalms 12

	Sermon	Description
	Authority and God's Word - Part 1 by Derek Prince	This sermon emphasizes the authority of Scripture, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit. It discusses the importance of accepting the entire B
	Preserve the Word by Richard Wurmbrand	This sermon shares the powerful testimony of a man who endured 14 years in communist jails, highlighting the joy of seeing children, the physical challenges faced in prison, the st
	Authority and the Power of God's Word - Part 1 by Derek Prince	This sermon emphasizes the authority of the Bible, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit, making it profitable for doctrine, reproof, correctio
	The Destiny of Man by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and fulfilling our destiny as Christians. He explains that our destiny is to live for the glory and honor of
	(Church Leadership) 9. a Disciplined Tongue by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in our lives as believers. He highlights the need to value and redeem our time, avoiding wasting it in daydreami
	Where Have You Taken Jesus? by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the struggle of being in a religious environment that is disconnected from the true heart of God. They emphasize the importance of being touch
	The Importance of Our Speech by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the critical importance of controlling the tongue and being filled with the Holy Spirit. It highlights how the tongue can either be a source of life or a sou
	Blood Covenant - Part 8 by Bob Phillips	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's heart and letting go of any doctrines or traditions that hinder the fear of God. He encourages the listene
	Ye Are the Light of the World - Part 4 by Roy Daniel	This sermon emphasizes the importance of showing Jesus in our lives and loving others as Christ loved us. It reflects on the impact of godly individuals who deeply cared for souls
	Spiritual Depression by Carter Conlon	This sermon addresses spiritual depression among the godly, emphasizing the challenges faced in a society marked by godlessness and the need to trust in God's promises. It draws pa

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 12

Matthew Henry's commentary on Psalms 12 emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's word, even in the face of persecution and suffering. Henry notes that the psalmist's cry for help is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that God is our refuge and our hope. He also highlights the dangers of deceit and flattery, and the ultimate judgment that will come upon the wicked. Ultimately, Henry concludes that the chapter reminds us of the importance of faithfulness and trust in God, and the ultimate vindication of the faithful. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?