Psalm 82:1-8 God stands in the congregation of the mighty; he judges among the gods.… addressed to those who, pledged by their office to uphold the Law, had trampled upon it for their own selfish ends. I. GOD'S RELATION TO RULERS. (Ver. 1.) 1. He has appointed them to a Divine work. They are to represent the justice and righteousness of God. 2. He holds them responsible for their manner of doing it. Judges them. II. THE RIGHT USE AND THE ABUSE OF RESPONSIBLE POWER. (Vers. 2-4.) 1. The right use of power. To give justice and redemption to the poor and defenceless. To defend the helpless and the oppressed. 2. The abuse of power. "To accept the persons of the wicked" is to favour their cause on account of their position or station. III. THE CORRUPTION OF RULERS DEMORALIZES SOCIETY. (Ver. 5.) "The foundations of the earth are out of course." 1. The example of men high in station is more influential than that of others. 2. Law unjustly administered demoralizes and degrades a people. - S. Parallel Verses KJV: {A Psalm of Asaph.} God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.WEB: God presides in the great assembly. He judges among the gods. |
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