What is the meaning of Psalm 50:21? You have done these things Psalm 50 lists what the Lord calls “these things”: • v. 17 – 19: despising His instruction, associating with thieves, committing adultery, letting the mouth “loose for evil,” and the tongue “harness deceit.” • v. 20: slandering one’s own family. The point is clear—God sees every act. Romans 1:29-31 walks the same road, detailing envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. Galatians 5:19-21 reminds us that “those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God”. and I kept silent God’s silence is never approval; it is patience. Ecclesiastes 8:11 notes that when punishment is delayed, “the heart of the sons of men is fully set to do evil.” Isaiah 42:14 records the Lord saying, “I have kept silent…I have restrained Myself,” while 2 Peter 3:9 assures that His seeming delay simply means He is “patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish.” His quiet restraint gives room for repentance. you thought I was just like you Silence led Israel to a tragic miscalculation: they assumed God shared their tolerance of sin. Psalm 94:7 voices that smug attitude: “The LORD does not see….” Romans 2:4 warns us not to “presume on the riches of His kindness,” and Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that His thoughts and ways are infinitely higher than ours. God is holy; He never winks at sin. But now I rebuke you The time for patience ends; God speaks. Proverbs 1:23 pictures wisdom crying, “I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you,” yet rebuke follows if ignored. Hebrews 12:6 says, “The Lord disciplines the one He loves,” and Revelation 3:19 echoes, “Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be zealous and repent.” Divine rebuke is mercy in action, calling sinners home before judgment falls. and accuse you to your face Judgment moves from private conviction to public exposure. Malachi 3:5 promises, “I will come to you for judgment.” Job 13:26 admits God “makes me inherit the iniquities of my youth,” and Acts 17:31 declares a fixed day when He “will judge the world in righteousness.” No one will dodge the confrontation; every mouth will be stopped (Romans 3:19). summary Psalm 50:21 warns that repeated sin plus divine silence can breed dangerous assumptions about God’s character. He is patient, but He is also perfectly holy. When His silence ends, rebuke and open indictment follow. The wise hear His rebuke now, turn from “these things,” and walk in humble, obedient fellowship with the One who sees all. |
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