Psalms 53
1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good.
2 God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.
3 Every one of them is gone back: they are altogether become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
4 Have the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people as they eat bread: they have not called upon God.
5 There were they in great fear, where no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: thou hast put them to shame, because God hath despised them.
6 Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion! When God bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad.
Common Questions About Psalms 53
How does Psalm 53 open?
It repeats Psalm 14's declaration that the fool says in his heart 'There is no God,' describing widespread corruption where none does good.
What hope does the psalm still express?
It still looks forward to salvation coming out of Zion, and rejoicing when God restores the fortunes of His people, holding hope alongside a sober view of humanity.
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Questions to Think About
- How does this repeated psalm reinforce the seriousness of turning away from God?
- Where do you see God's hope breaking into a discouraging situation?
Ask the Bible Chat Bot below if you'd like to talk through any of these.
