Christological, Devotional Psalms for You

Synopsis:

In this short volume, historical theologian John Fesko (Westminster Seminary California) exposits the first eight chapters of Psalms and shows how they present a series of Christological hymns.

Strengths:

1) Christological:

Each chapter begins by explicating the immediate purpose and meaning of the text of the Psalm. They appear to be organized into three sections by Dr. Fesko; the original author’s historical context and apparent reason for writing, the Christological (how the verse points to Jesus Christ) meaning and lastly, the practical implications for Christians.
True to the book’s title, J.V. Fesko analyzes the dual meaning behind “the suffering King,” in that it applies to the lamentations of king David and the prophetic foreshadowing of how it relates to the real son of David; King Jesus, who suffered at the hands of God’s enemies to redeem His people.

2) Practical:

Each chapter concludes with a series of study questions that further reinforce the Christological meanings of the Psalms and encourages deeper study into other parts of the Bible. It also engages the reader to reflect on the themes we read about and how they apply to our Christian walk.

For example:

a) In the chapter 1 study questions, we are asked to “find another biblical passage that, like Psalm 1, describes the gentle and gradual descent into sin.” (pg 23)

b) How might God’s favor lead us to become arrogant? (pg. 61)

c) How much time do you spend in prayer? How could your prayer time be improved? (pg. 76)

3) Musical:

Each chapter concludes with metrical versions of the Psalms. This allows the reader to digest the particular Psalm and meditate on it musically. You can pray the Psalm or sing it, reflecting on the weight and glory of its Christological power.

Weaknesses:

1) Paper & Cover quality:

I am usually very careful to retain the cover and pages of my books; especially paperbacks. My biggest pet-peeve is getting a book returned with its pages and cover all bent out of shape. However, the composition of the paper is really weak and within a few reads, the book looked like it had been used several times over. It was very difficult to keep the book in good condition, which really just a personal thing.

If this is not a big deal to you, then I wouldn't let this deter you from purchasing it. It’s just that most of my paperbacks are still in pretty good shape after many uses and this one didn't make it past the review reading. So there’s that. But this has nothing to do with the content, but I had to put SOMETHING down that the book could improve on, but this is more on the publisher than anything.

Final Verdict.

Buy it.

No, really. This is a fantastic way to do a study on at least the first 8 Psalms. It’s like a commentary, but with a pastoral devotional flair that is wholly accessible and applicable. Dr. Fesko is one of the best modern writers on the Scriptures and Historical Theology (see his work on the Westminster Standards).

You would do well to add this to your library.