Psalms

Originally delivered 1996-08-22

Smith speaks happiness from Psalm 1, and that we find it in the law of the Lord. Smith speaks on the opening of the Psalm and it's use of negatives. He looks at what it means to delight in the law of the Lord, to be shaped by God's word. Smith looks at the convictions that this man will have, and that this will keep us from walking with the wicked. Smith explores the imagery of a growing tree. He contrasts this with the experience of both Job and Jeremiah, and argues that God sustains us even when hard times come. Smith looks at the ultimate future of the wicked. He looks at the division between the righteous and the wicked.

Smith speaks on Psalms 137. He looks at the historical context of the passage. Smith looks at what the psalm says about God, and that is in him that we find life. He compares this psalm with Habakkuk and other passages which show God's power. Smith examines the crisis felt by the psalmist at the destruction of Jerusalem but that there will be justice and Babylon will be destroyed. Smith explains that the action of Babylon are opposite to God, but there will be resurrection for Jerusalem. Originally delivered 1994-04-14

Smith speaks on Psalm 137. He places it in it's historical context. Smith looks at Zion as the place that God has chosen to reside in. Smith explains that this creates a bond between Zion and God. Smith explores what Genesis and Isaiah say about Babylon. He shows that this seems to be the opposite of God's promises. Smith looks at the psalmist's pain in exile, and his despair in exile. Smith looks at Babylon's denial of God. Originally delivered 1980-01-01

Smith speaks on Psalm 73. He looks at the reference to Psalm 1 in relation to both God's approval of righteousness and disregard for sin. He contrasts this to the next verse, where it appears that the righteous are suffering and the wicked are prospering. Smith compares this to Job. Smith looks at finding the solution in God's presence.