The Inward/Outward Journey From Self-Preoccupation to God-Centeredness
Prepared for Monday Psalms, October 4, 2021
Chapter: Psalm 81
Toni’s Title
If My People Would But Listen to Me
ESV Title
Oh, That My People Would Listen to Me
Literary Type
This is covenant renewal liturgy.
Covenant Renewal Liturgy
In their early history, before the time of David, the Israelites probably had a special time in the autumn of each year to renew their conditional covenant with God, the Mosaic covenant. “If you will obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession…” (Exodus 19:5) The saving deeds of God in Israel’s history were proclaimed and the people were asked to reaffirm their allegiance to God.
Examples: Psalms 50 and 81
NT Prayer Guide
Rev. 3:12-17
Superscription
To the choirmaster: according to Gittith. Of Asaph.