Psalm 52: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 52 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist opens with a question directed at the mighty man, challenging his boastful ways despite God's enduring loving kindness (vv. 1-3). The evildoer's tongue is likened to a sharp razor, plotting destruction and working deceit.

Key verse

“But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in God’s house. I trust in God’s loving kindness forever and ever.”
Psalms 52:8 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 52:1–3 Confrontation of the Boastful Evildoer
Psalm 52:4–5 God's Judgment Against Evil
Psalm 52:6–7 The Righteous Response
Psalm 52:8–9 Trust and Thanksgiving in God

Discussion questions

In v2, what does the 'sharp razor' symbolize about the mighty man's tongue?
In v4, what do the 'devouring words' indicate about the nature of the deceitful tongue?
The phrase 'he will take you up' in v5: what does this imply about God's action against the wicked?
The statement in v7 about trusting in 'the abundance of his riches': what does this suggest about true strength?
When have you seen someone trust in their 'wickedness' (v7) rather than in God's loving kindness?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 52: Psalm 91, Psalm 92, Psalm 13.

Before next time: read Psalm 53.