Praying Curses: The Therapeutic and Preaching Value of the Imprecatory Psalms - Softcover

Nehrbass, Daniel

Softcover

ISBN 10: 162032749X ISBN 13: 9781620327494

Publisher: Pickwick Publications, 2013

Synopsis

Public reading of the psalms facilitates corporate worship, but it can also create a degree of awkwardness as a number of passages in the Psalter contain curses, asking God to avenge enemies. The presence of vengeful speech seems antithetical to Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. What are these psalms really about? This book recovers the value of imprecatory speech in Scripture, arguing that such passages continue to be relevant today, both in preaching and therapy. The interpretive model Nehrbass suggests is that of dependence: these psalms transfer the burden of one's enemies to God and affirm that it is God's prerogative alone to avenge. The authors of the imprecatory psalms were victims of violence, so this book looks to contemporary victims of violence for their interpretation and application of these psalms. This study is decidedly practical. Nehrbass examines the nature of anger and hatred and highlights some of the redemptive aspects of these emotions. He concludes that the imprecatory psalms offer several positive aspects for dealing with hatred. Use of these passages fosters in believers a passion for God's reputation and can also aid us in surrendering our problems to God's control.

About this title

About the Author:

Daniel Nehrbass (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary, ThM, Biola University, MDiv, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the executive director of Nightlight Christian Adoptions in Anaheim, California. He previously served as a pastor for seventeen years, as an adjunct professor at Fuller Seminary and Biola University, and as a professional counselor.

About this edition

• Publisher: Pickwick Publications
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 162032749X
• ISBN 13: 9781620327494
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 213