Commentary on Psalms 37:20

Psalms 37:20: "But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away."

Introduction

This verse encapsulates a profound truth regarding the fate of the wicked in contrast to the faithful. It serves as a declaration of God's justice and a reminder to the faithful of the transient nature of the wicked's prosperity. Drawing from public domain commentaries, we explore insights from various respected theologians and scholars to glean a deeper understanding of this text.

Exposition of the Text

Contextual Analysis: Psalms 37 is a didactic psalm, often attributed to David, which contrasts the righteous and the wicked, providing wisdom on responding to the apparent success of the latter. Verses leading up to verse 20 emphasize trusting in the Lord and the eventual downfall of evildoers.

Matthew Henry's Insights: Henry highlights that this verse reflects the inevitability of divine justice. He posits that just as the fat of lambs, which is a symbol of abundance and indulgence, is eventually consumed and turned to smoke, the wicked will face a similar fate—transitory and ephemeral. Their enjoyment may seem substantial for a time, yet it is ultimately unsustainable. Henry articulates that this serves to encourage the righteous, reminding them to persevere in faith, as their end is distinctly different from that of the wicked.

Albert Barnes' Interpretation: Barnes assures us that “the wicked shall perish” is an emphatic statement about the finality of judgment against those who oppose God. He elaborates on the imagery of the fat of lambs being consumed, which illustrates both the fleeting nature of the wicked's prosperity and their eventual destruction. Barnes emphasizes that this destruction is not merely physical but spiritual, pointing to eternal separation from God as the ultimate consequence for the wicked.

Adam Clarke's Comments: Clarke draws attention to the powerful imagery used in this verse, where the wicked are likened to fat being consumed by fire. He suggests that this metaphor highlights the decisive and complete nature of their judgment. Clarke notes that this passage serves to fortify the righteous, urging them to cling to their integrity, regardless of how the wicked may thrive in the present moment.

Theological Implications

• The Justice of God: This verse reaffirms the doctrinal belief in God’s justice. The promise that the wicked shall perish aligns with the biblical theme of righteousness leading to reward and wickedness leading to punishment.
• The Transitory Nature of Sinful Success: The imagery of consumption resonates with the idea that earthly gains achieved through wickedness are both temporary and illusory, lacking permanent value in the eyes of God.
• The Hope of the Righteous: Psalms 37:20 serves as a source of hope for those facing suffering due to the success or prosperity of evil. It reinforces the idea that the apparent success of the wicked is only a fleeting shadow when viewed from an eternal perspective.

Practical Applications

Encouragement in Trials: For pastors and spiritual leaders, this verse can be a source of encouragement to congregants who feel overwhelmed by evil in the world. It reassures believers that God is sovereign and will ultimately vindicate the righteous.

Caution Against Envy: The psalm admonishes the faithful not to envy the wicked. Instead, it encourages a focus on trusting God and ensuring one's own life aligns with His will, acknowledging that succumbing to jealousy of the wicked's prosperity is misplaced.

Emphasis on Integrity: For theologians and scholars, this passage calls for a deeper examination of what it means to live righteously. The ultimate goal of life should not be the accumulation of wealth or influence, but rather a faithful reflection of God in one's life.

Conclusion

Psalms 37:20 presents a stark contrast between the destiny of the wicked and the righteous. Through the insights gleaned from the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, we are reminded of God's ultimate justice—that the seeming success of the wicked is temporary and will culminate in their destruction. For the righteous, it serves not only as a warning against envy but also as a profound encouragement to remain steadfast in faith, embodying integrity and trust in the Lord's promises.