Psalm 12 Summary - 5 Minute Bible Study

Psalm 12 Short Summary:

David is discouraged by the lack of upright men and the abundance of wicked men in the world. He specifically mentions the prevalence of liars and men whose words have malicious motives. He calls on God to punish these evil men and protect those victimized by them.

Psalm 12 Summary

AUTHOR:

• King David is the author of Psalm 12.

NEW TESTAMENT REFERENCES:

• No known New Testament References.

THEMES:

• The world is full of men who use their words to do evil.

• God is a refuge for those victimized by these evil men.

DEFINITIONS:

• Sheminith (12:1) – The meaning is not known with certainty. Many scholars believe it should be translated as “eighth.” Some suggest it indicates an eight stringed instrument, others believe it refers to a musical octave, and still others think it designates the tune to which the psalm was to be sung.

• Flattery (12:2) – Complimenting someone with the goal of receiving some personal benefit from that person’s favor.

OUTLINE:

• A WORLD FILLED WILL FLATTERERS, LIARS, AND BOASTERS (12:1-8):

  • The psalmist is discouraged by the lack of upright men and the abundance of wicked men in the world. He specifically mentions the prevalence of liars and men whose words have malicious motives.

  • David writes, “Everyone utters lies to his neighbor; with flattering lips and a double heart they speak” (12:2).

  • These evil men used their snake tongues to accomplish their own ends and to benefit themselves.

  • They took advantage of the poor and needy. They were like prowling animals ready to pounce at any moment to take advantage of another person (12:8).

  • David called out to God for help. He wanted the Lord to fight for him against these evil men.

  • He wrote that God would rise up against the wicked and give safety to the oppressed.

  • “You, O Lord, will keep them; You will guard us from this generation forever” (12:7):
    

APPLICATION:

• Flattery is a sin that doesn’t get discussed much in the Church.

• I don’t think I’ve ever heard a sermon on the danger of flattery.

• In Romans 16:17-18, the Apostle Paul warns the Church that flattery is cunning and malicious tactic used by men who cause trouble in churches.

• Proverbs 29:5 - A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet. 

• If you have a chance, watch my video about flattery on the 2BeLikeChrist YouTube channel entitled, Beware of the Flatterer - Proverbs 29:5 - 2BeLikeChrist.