Psalms 9 and 10 · Series: Biblical Justice and Social Concern
What does God say about justice, and what does it have to do with the Lord’s Table?
This Communion Sunday, Pastor Duli Asi opens our new series on Social Justice. Psalms 9 and 10 are one prayer: a cry from people who feel God is far away while the wicked prosper, and a growing confidence that “the Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed.” Justice is not an add-on to the Christian life. It is part of God’s own character, and He hears the cry of those who call on His name.
The sermon traces that theme through Scripture. Jesus prays Psalm 22 from the cross. God hears Israel groaning in Egypt and acts. The Sabbath gives servants, strangers and employers the same rest. In Hebrew the word for justice and righteousness, tzedakah, is not optional kindness but a duty, and its highest form is empowering people to stand on their own rather than keeping them waiting for handouts.
Pastor Duli brings this home to Papua New Guinea today: rising prices and a falling kina, wages that don’t move, people displaced and left waiting, corruption and violence, and the question many are asking about whether the church is still relevant. His answer begins with Psalms 9 and 10. Fall before God, call on Him together, and then act.
The message closes at the Lord’s Table, “a table of celebrating justice,” where everyone comes on equal footing, welcomed and made right with God through the body and blood of Jesus.
Reflect this week
- What inequality or injustice do you see around you, and how could you help make it right?
- Is there a specific action you can take with what you have, as an individual, a family or a church?
- What kind of just community are you praying and working toward?
Key scriptures: Psalms 9 and 10 · Psalm 22 · Exodus 2:23-25 · Exodus 20:2, 8-11 · Deuteronomy 5:12-15 · Proverbs 29:7 · Psalm 95 · Matthew 5:3-8 · John 15:11 · James 2:26 · Isaiah 11 · Isaiah 65:17-25 · 1 Corinthians 11:23-26