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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 14, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [To the chief Musician, {A Psalm} of David.] The fool hath said in his heart, {There is} no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, {there is} none that doeth good.
Psalms 14:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, {and} seek God.
Psalms 14:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 They are all gone aside, they are {all} together become filthy: {there is} none that doeth good, no, not one. {filthy: Heb. stinking}
Psalms 14:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people {as} they eat bread, and call not upon the LORD.
Psalms 14:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 There were they in great fear: for God {is} in the generation of the righteous. {were...: Heb. they feared a fear}
Psalms 14:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 Ye have shamed the counsel of the poor, because the LORD {is} his refuge.
Psalms 14:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 Oh that the salvation of Israel {were come} out of Zion! when the LORD bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, {and} Israel shall be glad. {Oh...: Heb. Who will give}
Psalms 14:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.