This research paper by Garrett Black, submitted to Dr. Richard Belcher Jr. for OT5080 – Hebrew Exegesis at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, provides a detailed study of Psalm 14 within its covenantal and theological framework.
Black argues that the psalm contrasts two types of people within Israel: the fool, who denies God through moral corruption, and the faithful, who trust in Yahweh’s covenant promises. Through careful linguistic and syntactical analysis, he demonstrates how David’s lament over human depravity becomes a confession of faith—anchored in God’s righteous deliverance.
The paper situates Psalm 14 within both wisdom and prophetic traditions, showing how Paul later uses it in Romans 3 to underscore universal sinfulness and the necessity of divine grace. Ultimately, Black concludes that Psalm 14 exposes the heart of covenantal tension: humanity’s corruption met by God’s steadfast salvation.
Course and semester: OT5080 Hebrew Exegesis — Fall 2022