Overview

Psalm 35 is a psalm of David in which he calls upon the Lord to vindicate him against his enemies. The chapter expresses David’s plea for divine justice, as he faces opposition and betrayal from those who have turned against him without cause. The psalm moves between prayers for deliverance, expressions of confidence in God, and calls for God to thwart the plans of the wicked. David contrasts the actions of his adversaries with his own commitment to righteousness and his history of showing kindness to others. Ultimately, the psalm reveals a deep dependence on God as the ultimate Judge and Defender.

David’s petitions reflect his trust in God’s character as a righteous and sovereign ruler who upholds justice. The psalm includes vivid imagery, such as asking God to be his shield and buckler, to pursue his enemies with the angel of the Lord, and to let the way of the wicked become dark and slippery. David’s prayers are not merely personal but are rooted in a desire for God’s glory to be displayed through justice. The chapter concludes with a commitment to praise and rejoice in the Lord’s deliverance, as David anticipates God’s intervention.

This psalm holds significant theological value in highlighting themes of justice, deliverance, and trust in God’s timing. It provides a framework for believers to bring their concerns and struggles before God, trusting in His sovereignty and His ability to bring about ultimate vindication.

Historical and Literary Context

Psalm 35 belongs to the category of imprecatory psalms, which contain prayers for judgment against evildoers. It is attributed to David and reflects a time when he was falsely accused and pursued by enemies. The historical setting is not explicitly stated, but the tone and themes align with periods in David’s life when he was unjustly targeted, such as during Saul’s pursuit or Absalom’s rebellion.

The psalm is structured in three main sections, each ending with a declaration of praise and trust in God. The first section (verses 1-10) focuses on David’s plea for God to contend with his enemies. The second section (verses 11-18) describes the treachery of his adversaries and contrasts it with David’s past kindness. The final section (verses 19-28) reiterates David’s request for God to intervene and bring justice, concluding with a commitment to praise God publicly.

The psalm’s poetic nature is evident in its use of parallelism, vivid imagery, and rhetorical questions. It also draws on covenantal themes, appealing to God’s faithfulness to His people and His role as their protector and judge.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

The sovereignty of God is a central theme, as David repeatedly appeals to God as the righteous Judge who has the power to deliver and vindicate His people. This reflects the biblical teaching that God is in control of all circumstances and will bring justice in His perfect timing.

The righteousness of God is emphasized in David’s confidence that God will act justly, exposing the wicked and defending the innocent. The psalm underscores the biblical doctrine of God’s moral perfection and His commitment to uphold justice.

The reality of spiritual opposition is evident in David’s description of his enemies. The psalm illustrates the believer’s struggle against opposition, both human and spiritual, and highlights the need for divine intervention.

The faithfulness of God is seen in David’s reliance on God’s covenant promises. Despite his dire circumstances, David trusts in God’s character and faithfulness to protect and deliver His people.

The psalm also addresses the believer’s response to injustice. Rather than taking matters into his own hands, David entrusts his case to God, modeling prayer, dependence, and a commitment to righteousness even in the face of adversity.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verses 1–3: 

A Call for Divine Intervention “Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, ‘I am your salvation.’”

David begins by asking God to act as his defender and advocate. The imagery of shield, buckler, spear, and javelin portrays God as a divine warrior who protects His people and fights on their behalf. The plea for God to “say to me, ‘I am your salvation’” reflects David’s deep reliance on God’s deliverance. Cross-references include Exodus 15:3, which describes the Lord as a warrior, and Romans 8:31, affirming that if God is for His people, no one can stand against them.

Application: Believers can confidently call on God to defend them in times of spiritual and physical opposition, trusting in His power and faithfulness to protect.

Verses 4–8: 

A Prayer for Justice “May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away. May their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them.”

David prays for his enemies to be thwarted in their schemes. The comparison to “chaff before the wind” highlights their instability and inability to stand before God’s judgment (Psalm 1:4). The “angel of the Lord” represents God’s direct intervention, as seen in Exodus 14:19-20, where the angel protected Israel. The imagery of a “dark and slippery” path underscores the consequences of their wickedness, which leads to destruction.

Application: This passage teaches believers to entrust justice to God rather than seeking revenge, knowing He is the ultimate judge who sees and acts righteously.

Verses 9–10: 

Rejoicing in God’s Deliverance “Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation. My whole being will exclaim, ‘Who is like you, Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them.’”

David anticipates God’s deliverance, responding with worship and gratitude. The rhetorical question, “Who is like you, Lord?” emphasizes God’s uniqueness and unparalleled power. This echoes Exodus 15:11, where Moses praises God’s incomparable greatness.

Application: Believers are reminded to respond to God’s deliverance with praise and gratitude, recognizing His power to save.

Verses 11–16: 

The Betrayal of Enemies “Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about. They repay me evil for good and leave me like one bereaved.”

David laments the betrayal of his enemies, contrasting their hostility with his past kindness toward them. His grief is likened to mourning for a friend or brother, showing the depth of the betrayal. This foreshadows Jesus’ experience with false witnesses and betrayal (Matthew 26:59-61).

Application: This passage reminds believers to persevere in righteousness even when others respond with hostility or ingratitude.

Verses 17–18: 

A Plea for Deliverance and Praise “How long, Lord, will you look on? Rescue me from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among the throngs I will praise you.”

David appeals to God’s timing, expressing his longing for deliverance. The reference to “lions” portrays the intensity of the threat he faces. He vows public praise for God’s deliverance, emphasizing the importance of communal worship.

Application: Believers can trust God’s perfect timing for deliverance, committing to give Him glory in both private and public worship.

Verses 19–21:

A Cry Against Injustice “Do not let those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; do not let those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations against those who live quietly in the land.”

David highlights the injustice of his enemies, who hate him “without cause” and spread false accusations. This reflects the broader reality of suffering for righteousness, as seen in Jesus’ life (John 15:25). Their winking and malicious words portray their deceitful character.

Application: Believers are encouraged to bring their grievances before God, knowing He is aware of every injustice and will act in His time.

Verses 22–26: 

Confidence in God’s Justice “Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord.”

David appeals to God’s omniscience and justice, asking Him to intervene. He expresses confidence that God will vindicate the righteous and bring shame to the wicked. The repetition of “do not” emphasizes David’s urgency and dependence on God’s action.

Application: Believers can trust that God sees every injustice and will bring vindication in His perfect way.

Verses 27–28: 

A Commitment to Praise “May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, ‘The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant.’ My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.”

David ends with a call for communal joy and worship, inviting others to join in exalting God. He recognizes that God delights in the well-being of His servants, which motivates unceasing praise.

Application: Believers are reminded to celebrate God’s work in their lives and proclaim His righteousness to others, fostering a spirit of worship and testimony.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Psalm 35 points to Christ as the ultimate defender and vindicator of the righteous. David’s plea for God to contend with his enemies finds fulfillment in Jesus, who intercedes on behalf of His people against the forces of evil (Romans 8:34). The psalm’s themes of betrayal and unjust suffering parallel Christ’s experience during His earthly ministry. Just as David faced false accusations and hostility without cause, Jesus endured betrayal and hatred, fulfilling the prophecy in John 15:25: “They hated me without reason.” The call for divine intervention foreshadows Jesus’ victory over sin, Satan, and death through His crucifixion and resurrection. The psalm’s conclusion of public praise reflects the triumph of Christ, who leads His people in worship as the risen King (Hebrews 2:12).

Connection to the Father

Psalm 35 reveals the Father’s role as the righteous judge and protector of His people. David’s appeal to God’s justice underscores the Father’s sovereignty and His commitment to uphold the righteous and oppose the wicked. The Father’s care for His children is evident in His willingness to act as their advocate and defender. This is further revealed in the New Testament, where God’s love is displayed in giving His Son to bring justice and salvation. The psalm’s imagery of God taking up shield and spear to defend His servant reminds believers of the Father’s active involvement in the battles of His people, ensuring their ultimate victory.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is seen in Psalm 35 as the comforter and encourager of the righteous in times of persecution and injustice. The Spirit strengthens believers to trust in God’s justice, empowering them to persevere in faith. The Spirit’s role in guiding and sustaining believers is reflected in David’s confidence that God will rescue and vindicate him. Additionally, the Spirit inspires the believer’s response of praise, as seen in David’s vow to proclaim God’s righteousness. This mirrors the Spirit’s work in glorifying God through His people (John 16:14), equipping them to testify of God’s goodness.

Connection to God’s Love

Psalm 35 reveals God’s love as personal, protective, and redemptive. The psalm demonstrates His care for the oppressed and His willingness to intervene on their behalf. David’s reliance on God’s justice reflects the love of a Father who is deeply concerned for the well-being of His children. The assurance of divine vindication highlights God’s commitment to deliver His people from harm and preserve their dignity. The promise of public praise and rejoicing in God’s salvation further underscores His desire for His people to experience the fullness of His love. Through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are assured of God’s steadfast love, which defends, delivers, and redeems them for His glory.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “God Our Defender: Trusting Him in Life’s Battles”

Introduction: 

Begin by sharing a story or real-life example of someone who experienced injustice but trusted God for vindication. Explain that Psalm 35 teaches us how to rely on God as our defender in the face of opposition and injustice.

Main Point 1: God as Our Advocate (Verses 1–10)

• Transition: Explain how David turns to God, asking Him to take up his cause against his enemies.
• Exposition: Highlight David’s imagery of God as a warrior, taking up shield and spear to fight for His people. Discuss how this points to God’s active role in protecting His children.
• Application: Encourage believers to bring their struggles to God in prayer, trusting Him as their advocate.
• Illustration: Share a story of someone who experienced God’s deliverance when they trusted Him in a time of need.

Main Point 2: God’s Justice Against the Wicked (Verses 11–18)

• Transition: Move from David’s call for defense to his appeal for justice against false accusations.
• Exposition: Explain how David describes his enemies’ deceit and hostility. Emphasize God’s role as the ultimate judge who vindicates the righteous and holds the wicked accountable.
• Application: Encourage believers to trust in God’s justice instead of taking revenge.
• Illustration: Use a personal example or testimony of someone who chose to forgive and trust God rather than retaliate.

Main Point 3: Rejoicing in God’s Salvation (Verses 19–28)

• Transition: Shift to the psalm’s conclusion, where David anticipates God’s deliverance and praises Him publicly.
• Exposition: Highlight David’s confidence in God’s salvation, leading him to commit to public worship and testimony.
• Application: Urge believers to maintain a heart of gratitude and praise, even when facing trials.
• Illustration: Share an example of a church community or individual who glorified God amid adversity.

Conclusion: 

Summarize the key themes: God as advocate, God’s justice, and the believer’s response of praise. Invite the congregation to reflect on areas in their lives where they need to trust God’s defense and justice.

Call to Action: Challenge the audience to surrender their battles to God, trusting Him for vindication. Encourage them to pray specifically for situations where they feel oppressed or misunderstood, committing to worship God as their deliverer.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Modern-Day Courtroom Analogy: Compare God as our defender to a lawyer in a courtroom who passionately fights for justice on behalf of the accused. This illustrates how God advocates for His people.
2. Historical Example: Refer to figures like Martin Luther King Jr., who faced injustice but trusted in God’s justice while maintaining peace and integrity.
3. Personal Story: Share a testimony from someone who experienced God’s intervention in a difficult situation, such as being falsely accused or wronged at work, and how God brought about justice.
4. Analogy of a Parent Defending Their Child: Explain how a loving parent steps in to protect their child from harm, mirroring God’s protective care for His people.

Application for Today’s Christian

1. Trust in God’s Advocacy: When faced with opposition or injustice, believers should turn to God in prayer, trusting Him to fight their battles. This means resisting the urge to retaliate and seeking God’s guidance instead.
2. Respond with Integrity: David refrains from acting unjustly toward his enemies, trusting in God’s timing and justice. Christians can learn to act with integrity, even when falsely accused or treated unfairly.
3. Praise in the Midst of Trials: David commits to praising God for His salvation, even before seeing the outcome. Believers can develop a habit of gratitude and worship, trusting in God’s faithfulness regardless of circumstances.
4. Be a Witness of God’s Deliverance: Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness with others, encouraging them to trust Him as well. This builds faith within the church and glorifies God publicly.
5. Forgive and Let Go: Instead of holding onto resentment, believers can find freedom by forgiving their enemies, as God calls His people to do, trusting Him for justice.

Reflection Questions

1. In what areas of your life are you facing opposition or injustice? How can you intentionally bring these situations to God in prayer, trusting Him to fight for you?
2. How does David’s reliance on God’s justice challenge your own responses to unfair treatment? What practical steps can you take to trust God’s timing and justice rather than seeking revenge?
3. David commits to praising God even before his situation is resolved. How can you cultivate a heart of worship and gratitude in the midst of difficulties?
4. Is there someone you need to forgive, trusting God to bring justice in His time? How can forgiveness free you to focus on God’s purposes in your life?
5. David refrains from acting unjustly toward his enemies, choosing to let God handle the situation. In what ways can you strive to maintain integrity and righteousness when facing conflict or slander?
6. David promises to testify publicly of God’s deliverance. How has God shown His faithfulness to you in the past, and how can you share that testimony to encourage others?