Slippery Places

Psalms 73:1-14;

Asap begins by saying that God is good

He compares the wicked to the Godly

Finding Firm Ground in Slippery Places

Bible Passage: Psalm 73:1-14

Summary: In Psalm 73, the psalmist grapples with doubt as he observes the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous, leading him to question God's justice.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand that they are not alone in their struggles with faith amidst adversity. It can encourage them to seek God for clarity and perspective when the situation seems unjust, and to trust in His ultimate justice.

Teaching: The sermon will teach that while life can seem unfair and the wicked may prosper, God has a plan for the faithful and will ultimately judge all hearts and actions.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Christ as the true fulfillment of justice and righteousness. He embodies the ultimate example of suffering, yet His resurrection assures believers of divine restoration and justice.

Big Idea: When we are surrounded by the prosperity of the wicked, we must remember that our anchor is not in worldly outcomes but in God's eternal justice and presence.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using Logos, consider exploring commentaries that detail the historical context of Psalm 73, particularly its literary structure and the themes of lament and hope found within. Investigate the various translations of key terms related to prosperity and suffering, which may illuminate deeper exegetical insights. Consider also examining how this psalm has been interpreted throughout church history to better understand its application today.

1. Starting with Struggle

Psalm 73:1-3

Perhaps you can begin by highlighting the initial dilemma of the psalmist. He acknowledges God's goodness but is troubled by the prosperity of the wicked. This mirrors our own doubts when observing injustice. You could suggest that the first step in finding firm ground is to honestly confront our doubts and bring them before God.

2. Seeing with Skepticism

Psalm 73:4-9

In these verses, the psalmist elaborates on the apparent ease and arrogance of the wicked. Maybe you could explore how this paints a vivid picture of earthly success, causing the faithful to stumble. Yet, this observation should lead us to challenge our perceptions of success and failure, aligning them with Christ's teachings of true righteousness.

3. Seeking Sure Salvation

Psalm 73:10-14

Perhaps you could conclude with the psalmist’s moment of despair, expressing feelings of futility and envy. You might encourage your congregation to see how these feelings are not unique but are part of a larger struggle to find hope in God’s justice. This passage invites us to refocus our hearts on God’s eternal promise, as demonstrated through Christ’s own suffering and victory.

This almost cause Asap to loose his faith

He begins four verses with But as for me 7;2, 22-23,28

1.the wicked have no trouble

2.they are boastful, prideful, and violent

Asap remember his salvation

Asap went into the temple