Purge Me and Wash Me

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