Psalms 107:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 107:20
20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
Chapter Context
Psalms 107 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, love, covenant. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 107:20
20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
Analysis
This verse describes God's healing method. 'He sent his word, and healed them' emphasizes the power of God's word. 'Sent' (shalach, שָׁלַח) means to dispatch or send forth. God's word goes forth with power to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 55:10-11). 'And delivered them from their destructions' uses malat (מָלַט), meaning to escape or slip away from—they're rescued from destruction. Jesus healed with His word ('Be clean,' 'Rise and walk'), demonstrating divine authority. The Word (Logos) made flesh (John 1:14) brings ultimate healing from sin's destruction. God's word creates, judges, saves, and heals.
Historical Context
God's word healed throughout Scripture: speaking created the cosmos (Genesis 1); God's word through prophets brought healing (2 Kings 5:10-14 - Elisha's word to Naaman). Jesus' healings by word demonstrated His deity—only God's word has inherent creative power. The centurion recognized this: 'Speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed' (Matthew 8:8). In the new covenant, the gospel word brings spiritual healing (1 Peter 2:24).
Reflection
- How does God's word possess power to heal and deliver?
- In what ways does Jesus as the Word incarnate fulfill this verse?
- How does the gospel 'word' bring healing from sin's destruction?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Word: Psalms 147:15, Matthew 8:8
- Parallel theme: Psalms 49:15, 56:13, 147:3