Purge Me and Wash Me
Minister: | Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: | 2/11/2018 AM |
Text: | Psalm 51:7 |
Psalters: | 228, 362, 140, 310 |
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper |
- David’s words of request.
- The word “purge” is derived from the word for sin. Translated sin 188 times and purify 11 times
- This is not to be seen as repetition (unnecessary), but as another important part of sincere confession: cleanse my nature.
- It expresses the knowledge that our sins (missing the mark of God’s glory) have severe consequences: punishment.
- “Hyssop” (a long stemmed bush with a pleasing smell) was dipped in blood and then sprinkled on someone or something.
- “Wash” is to wash by treading, i.e., by pounding, kneading or beating (no soap available).
- The word “purge” is derived from the word for sin. Translated sin 188 times and purify 11 times
- David is asking for more than external, blood covering. He asks that his conscience and mind be delivered from sin’s defilement.
- David now realized that his guilt had increased the longer (days, weeks, months) he denied them.
- Sin is not something we can commit and walk away clean; it leaves a dye on our inner being.
- This is true of all sin, especially premeditated sins, and then especially of sins we deny, excuse, and try to cover.
- He is asking for the Spirit to speak to his spirit that he is justified, with the removal of his guilt.
- Only God Himself can give us such a thorough cleansing.
- David now realized that his guilt had increased the longer (days, weeks, months) he denied them.
- And God will (‘I shall be”) cleanse every sinner who turns to Him and pleads for purging.
- David’s confidence arises from his knowing God’s mercy, which is infinitely great to those who seek Him.
- The desired effect of Christ’s justifying work is that we are made white, “whiter than snow.”
- Jesus’ blood make us whiter than snow now as well as in heaven.
- All our guilt is taken away now and we already possess eternal life in Jesus’ perfect righteousness.
- With the Bible teaching us this truth, we come to the Table of our Lord knowing that we are made innocent.