Fifth Sunday of Easter Psalm 22:25-31

Acts 8:26-40

Psalm 22:25-31

1 John 4:7-21

John 15:1-8

lectionary:

Season of easter, Year b

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

Keywords (13)

Scripture (9)

Date Added

Mar 10, 2021

Preaching Commentary

Paying Close Attention to Subjects and Verbs

Psalm 22 is well known to Christians because our Savior used this psalm in his dying hours on the cross (Matt. 46), quoted in Aramaic, his native language. Yet, the reason for this final portion of the psalm as part of today’s lectionary texts is broader than that: it is a description of the kingdom of God to come.

When reading the Psalms, we need to pay close attention to the subjects and verbs, and that principle applies beautifully to Psalm 22. The psalm is dominated by the three personal pronouns: 1st person: I/me/my; 2nd person: you/your; and 3rd person: the Lord/he/they/etc. The first and second persons alternate throughout the psalm until…

Subscriber Content

Get Full Access Today

Interested in viewing our resources? Try our 7-day free trial.

Try Now Sign In

easter Guides

Lectionary Cycles

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

C. Hassell Bullock is the Franklin S. Dyrness Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College (IL), where he served with distinction for 36 years. As a renowned scholar in Old Testament studies, particularly in the area of Psalms and Old Testament poetry, Dr. Bullock’s work has made a profound impact on biblical scholarship and Christian ministry. He holds degrees from Samford University (Birmingham, AL), Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA), and Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati, OH), which reflect his deep academic commitment to the Scriptures.

Dr. Bullock is widely recognized for his expertise in the Psalms, contributing significantly to both scholarly and pastoral conversations on the subject. His publications include The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic). His insights into the poetic structure and theological depth of the Psalms have enriched the understanding of these sacred texts for students, scholars, and church leaders alike.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Bullock has also served Presbyterian congregations in Alabama and Illinois over the course of his 40-year teaching and ministry career, blending scholarly insight with pastoral care. He is deeply committed to his family, sharing life with his wife, Rhonda, his college sweetheart. Together, they have raised a son, Scott, and a daughter, and they take great joy in the lives of their five grandchildren.

Dr. Bullock’s legacy continues to inspire students, pastors, and scholars, emphasizing the enduring richness and theological depth of the Psalms and the poetic beauty of the Old Testament. His work remains a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture.

The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic).