In Times of Trouble

The Reign of the King: Finding Hope in Troubling Times

Bible Passage: Psalm 10:12–18

Summary: In Psalm 10:12–18, the psalmist pleads for God's intervention against oppression and injustice, affirming the sovereignty of God as king who sees and judges rightly.

Application: This passage encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and justice, especially when faced with oppression or injustice. It reminds Christians that God is aware of their circumstances and is a defender of the helpless.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that even amidst evil and injustice, God is actively reigning and will ultimately vindicate the righteous and bring justice, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and hope.

How this passage could point to Christ: This theme showcases God's sovereign rule, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who reigns as King over all and embodies the justice and compassion of God that is reflected throughout Scripture.

Big Idea: Despite the prevailing injustices we observe, we can confidently trust in the Lord as our King, who will deliver justice and uphold the cause of the vulnerable.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the historical context surrounding Psalm 10 to understand the specific injustices faced by the psalmist. Use your Logos library to examine different translations and commentaries that explore the theological implications of God as king. Look into cross-references that highlight the relationship between divine sovereignty and human suffering, especially in the larger narrative of the Psalms.

1. Call for Justice

Psalm 10:12-14

You could reflect on how these verses call upon the Lord to take action against injustice, emphasizing God's awareness and care for those who suffer. These verses provide an assurance that God does not forget the afflicted, and His kingship guarantees that He sees all injustices. As believers, we can find hope knowing that God is not distant but is actively involved in defending the vulnerable. This can instill confidence in the congregation that despite witnessing wrongdoing, the sovereign King takes note and will not allow injustice to go unaddressed.

2. Crush Wickedness

Psalm 10:15

Perhaps, focus on the psalmist’s bold prayer for God to break the power of the wicked. This sermon point can explore the theme of God’s authority to dismantle evil, demonstrating His ultimate power over any force of oppression. It affirms that God has the ability to intervene decisively in situations of injustice. Encourage the congregation to pray with the same boldness, trusting that God has the strength and the will to defeat wickedness. This point could reveal God's commitment to rectifying the wrongs in the world.

3. Crown of Sovereignty

Psalm 10:16-18

Maybe emphasize God’s eternal reign as depicted in these verses, highlighting His commitment to justice and care for the oppressed. The psalmist declares that God is King forever, giving a vision of divine sovereignty where the helpless are heard and their cause upheld. This proclamation can assure believers that God's reign is not temporary and He will establish His justice ultimately. It points forward to Christ's kingdom where justice and peace will prevail forever. Remind the congregation of Jesus’s heart for the marginalized, connecting the text to the Gospel.