Purpose in Writing

Psalms 32:11 (KJV) Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

(Proverbs 22 also read)

As I read through Psalms, I am constantly reminded that it is possible to be considered “righteous”.  Psalms is very clear about that.  Paul, on the other hand acts like it is impossible at places.  I would guess that the prophets also aren’t real big on calling people righteous.  I’ve said this before.  I’ll say it again.

Today it occurred to me that the reason is the difference in the purpose of writing.  David is expressing his joy in the Lord.  He is writing to encourage and to draw people in.  The prophets, on the other hand, tend to be dealing with believers, whether they be in the church or in the nation of Israel.  They are people who are refusing to except humility before God, and are living either in heresy or on the very edge.  In the prophets there is especially a spirit of rebellion.

So?  Is it possible to be considered righteous by God?  Obviously yes.  Is it a natural tendency in people who are still living in rebellion?  No.  God can make us righteous and we can take that and practice it and live in righteousness.  Decisions are important.  Behavior is vital. 

I John in Psalms

Psalm 32:5 (KJV) I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.

As I read this, it seemed familiar.  After a moment of thinking, I realized it was very close to I John 1:9.

(1Jn 1:9 KJV)  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

This is consistent with all of this chapter in the book of Psalms.  It talks about forgiveness.  It talks about loving kindness.  It talks about our living relationship with the living God.  Not once is the law mentioned.  It doesn’t say that you offer up a sacrifice on the altar in the temple.  It says you confess to God.

So?  Although there are different approaches, and more mature understandings, the New Testament and the Old Testament tend to agree on the basics.  Read the whole word.  Contemplate the whole word.  Rejoice in the revelation of God.