The Pulpit Commentary on Psalms 51:1-8

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Repentance and forgiveness.

Some deny the Davidic origin of this psalm; but most refer it to the time when Nathan charged David with the sins of adultery and murder. In these verses we have set forth the nature of forgiveness, and the nature of repentance.

I. PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS.

1. Forgiveness is the inward and outward cleansing from sin. It is blotting out a record or a debt that is against us—that is, the outward cleansing. And it is a washing, or cleansing, or purging-that is, the inward forgiveness, or the taking away of sin. So that it is a double work.

2. When we become conscious of such forgiveness, we rejoice with a great gladness. (Psalms 51:8.) The strength (bones) which sin has broken is restored and rejoices.

II. THE NATURE OF REPENTANCE.

1. It is a trust in the Divine goodness and mercy. (Psalms 51:1.) Sorrow for sin without hope in God is remorse and death—not repentance.

2. A consciousness that our sin is more against God than against man. (Psalms 51:4.) "Inasmuch as ye did it against one of the least of these," etc.

3. An acknowledgment of the Divine righteousness in the punishment he has suffered. (Verse 21.)

4. He not only confesses the sinful deed, but traces it to the inheritance of a nature sinfully inclined. (Psalms 51:5.)

5. He prays for inward truthfulness and wisdom as his only safety for the future (Psalms 51:6).—S.

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