Psalm 14: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 14 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The fool declares in his heart that there is no God, leading to corrupt actions and abominable deeds (vv. 1-3). Yahweh looks down from heaven to see if anyone seeks Him, but finds none who do good. The workers of iniquity lack knowledge, consuming God's people without calling on Him (vv. 4-5). In contrast, the righteous experience fear because God is present among them. The psalmist laments how the plans of the poor are frustrated, but Yahweh is their refuge (vv. 6-7). A hopeful prayer arises for salvation to come from Zion, leading to joy for Jacob and Israel once restored.

Key verse

“The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt. They have done abominable deeds. There is no one who does good.”
Psalms 14:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 14:1–3 The Fool and His Deeds
Psalm 14:4–5 God's Observation and Human Fear
Psalm 14:6–7 A Hopeful Prayer for Salvation

Discussion questions

In v1, what does the fool say in his heart?
What does Yahweh do in v2 when looking down from heaven?
In v4, why does it matter that the workers of iniquity 'eat up my people'?
In v6, what is implied by saying 'Yahweh is his refuge' for the poor?
When have you felt like you were in 'great fear' as described in v5?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 14: Romans 3, Isaiah 59, Isaiah 64.

Before next time: read Psalm 15.