Psalms (Believers Church Bible Commentary | BCBC)
Overview
The influence of Psalms is immense, both in terms of the worship of God's people and in the spiritual experience of countless individuals. James H. Waltner aims to help readers find their way through Psalms, encounter God, and be led into obedience and praise.
Top Highlights
“The psalm thus begins with the claim of the LORD as the trustworthy center of life, in whom nothing will be lacking.” (Page 128)
“The psalm’s petition comes to a climax with the plea for spiritual restoration (vv. 10–12). It now places emphasis on the positive, not only on sin’s removal, but also on the miracle that God makes possible a new and changed life. Create in me a clean heart. The heart was regarded as the mainspring of a person’s life, not the seat of emotions, as in Western thought. The verb create (bārā’) is used only of God, as in Genesis 1:1. Only an act of God’s intervention can turn things around. The psalmist asks for a clean heart, a new beginning, a capacity for new living.” (Page 259)
“The term ḥesed, steadfast love, is the most basic characteristic of God toward his people and is variously translated: love, mercy, grace, kindness, fidelity, loyalty. It implies a pledge, a covenant love, love that is boundless, love that loves no matter what the circumstance or response [Steadfast].” (Page 647)
“The renewed life must be shared (Ps 34:11–12). Salvation is more than being sorry, repenting, and receiving pardon. It also means acting in love toward others in obedience to God. Salvation is followed by evangelism.” (Page 259)
“Five benefits of God’s grace are now enumerated: forgiveness, healing, redemption (rescue), crowning of life with mercy, and renewal (vv. 3–5).” (Page 499)
James Waltner's immense study of the Psalms merits close attention and wide use. It is a commentary that is well informed on critical issues but, more importantly, is alive and alert to theological, pastoral concerns. Waltner reads the Psalms in and for the church, and makes connections that will serve the pastoral, liturgical, devotional life of the church. We can be grateful for this important contribution.
—Walter Brueggemann, William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament, Columbia Theological Seminary
Like the Psalms themselves, Waltner's commentary should inspire a deeper learning of God's ways and a deeper devotion to the God who listens. Quite readable and clear, Waltner's style keeps the reader's interest and provides the reader with a deep respect for the sublime poetry of the Psalms.
—Craig Boyles, Professor of Religious Studies, Trinity Western University
- Title: Believers Church Bible Commentary: Psalms
- Author: James H. Waltner
- Publisher: Herald Press
- Publication Date: 2006
- Pages: 838
