Syntactical Outline Method used on Psalm 1

Example: Syntactical Outline Method used on Psalm 1

1. Syntactical Outline.

v. 1) Blessed is the man {idea chunk}

who {let's learn about the Blessed Man.}

does not walk in the counsel of the wicked

or stand in the way of sinners {what he avoids: the influence of ungodly people (looks like it applies to all three parallel thoughts "does not walk... or stand... or sit...)}

or sit in the seat of mockers.

v. 2) but his delight is in the law of the LORD

and on his law he meditates day and night. {what he does: enjoys and studies the law of God}

v. 3) He is like a tree planted by streams of water,

which yields its fruit in season

and whose leaf does not wither

Whatever he does prospers. {the way he benefits: he thrives and prospers}

v. 4) Not so the wicked! {the contrast to the Blessed Man: the wicked Man?}

They are like chaff that the wind blows away. {his usefulness: NOT!}

v. 5) Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. {his standing before God: he will be judged}

v. 6) For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous {the reason for blessing: God watches over the righteous}

but the way of the wicked will perish. {the reason wickedness fails}

2. Possible Outline (for personal use or teaching):

The Blessed Man:

He avoids ungodly influences.

He enjoys and studies the Word of God.

He thrives and prospers.

The Wicked Man: (The Depressed Man? rhymes with blessed)

He is ultimately useless.

He will be judged by God.

The Reason for the difference:

God watches over the righteous (blessed man).

The way of the wicked ultimately fails.

3. Questions that might help you make Interpretation / Application of these truths:

Are there ungodly influences that I need to avoid? People? Family members? Internet? Movies & TV? Books? Other media?

Do I enjoy my time in the Word? Do I really want to get to know God better? Do I spend more time in front of the TV than in my Bible? Do I know how to study the Bible for myself?

What is evidence that God has already blessed me, made me thrive and prosper? Count my blessings.

Are there seemingly "successful" 'wicked' people? How should I view them?

Am I tempted to use a wrong method to get something good?

Do I believe God is watching over me? Do I trust Him especially when things seem to be going wrong or not according to my plans?

Do I believe that God is just and that ultimately everyone will get what they deserve?