I. HUMAN CORRUPTION (r-3). r. Sweeping Accusation ( r ). 2. Divine Inspection (2 ). 3. Solemn Conclusion (3). II. HEARTLESS OPPRESSION (4-5). r. Strong Expostulation (4). 2. Divine Interposition (sa). 3. Smitten Opposition (sb ). ill. HOLY ASPIRATION (6). r. Sublime Manifestation (6a). 2. Divine Restoration ( 6b ). 3. Sanctified Exultation (6c). SUPERSCRIPT.-Maschil of David. SUBSCRIPT.-For the Chief Musician; upon Neginoth. PRIMARY AssocIATION.-A recension o(Ps. xiv. adapted to public use (see subscript). The marked variation in the text at verse 5 was made in order to suit Ŀnew circumstances, in all probability the destruction of Sennacherib's army in the days of Hezekiah;· compare 5 with 2 Kings xix. 35-36. See corresponding notes to Ps. xiv. "Neginoth," see Ps. iii. notes. PROPHETIC ANTICIPATION.-" Maschil" again points to special instruction for the remnant in the last days. The character, conduct and confounding of Antichrist and his followers are shown. While godless at heart, they outwardly own a political" god" for their own ends, 2 Thess. ii. 4; Dan. xi. 36-37, 38; Rev. xiii. 15. The remnant is here associated with the execution qf the divine judgment (5). In keeping with the general character of Book II and the prophetic theme of the psalm, the divine title "Elohim" occurs seven times instead of three times and "Jehovah" four times in Ps. xiv. Alternative title, "The Atheism of the Antichrist." PERSONAL APPLICATION.-The Scriptures of Truth are adapted to our ever-changing conditions. These ancient words always suit modern needs. Men seek everything but God (2). The Lord's search for (a) Seekers after God (2); (b) Sinners lost from God, Luke xix. 10.; (c) Saints to worship God, John iv. 23. God despises
DISCLOSURES CONCERNING THE ENEMY REPROBATE 143 those who deny Hi1n (5). Neglect of God is the cause of moral corruption. While men regard not God, He ceases not to regard them. Note the sevenfold affirmation of God in the presence of the ungodly multitude. See also Ps. xiv. VERSE NOTES See Notes to Psalm :xiv.
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