Scripture Guide

Psalm 107 (Guide A)

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

Keywords (12)

Scripture (3)

Updated

Aug 2, 2024

AIM Commentary

Ancient lens

What’s the historical context?

Historical Background

We need to understand several things about Psalm 107 before we can put it all together.

First, it is the beginning psalm of Book 5 (Pss. 107-150) of the Psalter. That division is ancient and it is generally held that the historical backdrop of each of the five books can be detected. There is little doubt that Book 5 was put together against the backdrop of the return from Babylonian exile (about 536 BC) and the building of the second temple (520-516 BC, Ps. 118:22-24) and the restoration of the sacrificial system.

Literary Transition

Second, Psalm 107 is a transition psalm, transitioning the reader from…

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Psalms Series

This guide is adapted from our 2024 Psalms sermon series. Take your congregation deeper into the songbook of Israel with guides for 12 sermons on the Psalms with quotes, illustrations, discussion questions, and liturgy.

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).