The Flow of the Psalms: Discovering Their Structure and Theology

“The book of the Psalms: a random collection of individual poems or a well–structured composition with a specific theological message? While an average Bible reader gets the impression of the former, several biblical scholars in modern times have attempted to discover the latter—but mostly in vain. This new book offers a courageous and thought–provoking proposal to read the Psalter afresh. Palmer Robertson argues that the Psalms exhibit a deliberate architectonic structure and an organized development of thought progression from the beginning to the end. Pivotal to his argument is a new evaluation of the function of the two ‘poetic pillars’ (Pss. 1 and 2), with Torah and Messiah as organizing themes of the Psalter. In my opinion, the author is successful in defending the idea of a great number of interconnections in structure and theology in the Psalms. The redemptive historical development of confrontation–communication–devastation–maturation–consummation is quite helpful, as is the emphasis on the function of memorization of the Psalms by means of, for example, acrostic psalms. This book is written in a lucid and attractive style and reads as the report of an exploratory expedition. Robertsons joy of discovery is contagious, as is his love for Gods Word that inspired him. It is therefore my hope and expectation that the teaching of this book will enrich many readers, both laymen and scholars.”

“What a pleasure to read! O. Palmer Robertsons scholarly but accessible Flow of the Psalms demonstrates that there is an orderly thematic arrangement for the seemingly ‘most miscellaneous of the sacred books’ (Augustine)—the Psalms. Showing us the genius of the books structure and the interconnections between structure and substance, Robertson makes the overall theological message of the Psalms come to light. His fresh and insightful work on this majestic book of Scripture is sure to expand your mind, warm your heart, and open your mouth to join with all creation in shouts of ‘Hallelu–YAH.’”

“Very few evangelical scholars have mastered Old Testament studies to the level of O. Palmer Robertson. His expertise is evident in this work on the Psalms. More than this, he interacts with modern scholarship without compromising his commitment to the full authority of Scripture. And best of all, his work is easily understood and available to serve pastors and other church leaders as they preach and teach Christ from the Psalms. . . . One of the very best studies of this part of Scripture.”

“With his customary clarity and insight, Robertson presents a psalter that is at once theologically rich, historically relevant, and practically impactful. His approach is largely redemptive–historical and canonical, which provides him with multiple advantages as he explores the shape and coherence of the Psalter as a poetic anthology and its place within the larger biblical story of redemption. Robertsons often–creative interpretation is nevertheless attuned to contemporary scholarship, which he presents in a manner accessible to laymen and preachers.”

“Here is a groundbreaking and innovative piece of research and study that will open up new vistas of study and preaching to the whole body of Christ from the beloved treasury of the Psalter. . . . Professor Robertson has convincingly argued that there is a distinctive progression across the five books of the Psalter. . . . What Robertson has done for us is to include in this book five diagrams, along with his text, to show how Torah Psalm 1 and messianic Psalm 2 supply us with the major themes that are then developed across the whole Psalter with the grouping of significant psalms along the way. . . . The impact that this view of such a Psalter structure will have on New Testament perspectives and studies should be enormous.”