Psalm 119 and Synonyms for Scripture

I recently received an email that asked for some clarification of the different words that the Bible uses to describe Scripture, such as statutes and precepts. A casual reading of Psalm 119 reveals that there are certain words that dominate the theme of the Psalm and are used to describe the Law. We tend to think of the Law in terms of rules and regulations that must be followed. However, the law (and Christianity for that matter) is much more than that.

Because our language is finite and limited, we find it difficult to describe spiritual concepts that are infinite and beyond the limitations of our language. What we have in Scripture is a revelation of the nature and character of God himself, not lists of rules that restrict our freedom. God gave us His character in this way because it allows us to understand who He is in spite of the limitations of language. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the psalmists were able to declare the glory of God in creative ways that would actually mean something to us centuries later.

As I was preparing to respond to the email with a simplistic answer that focused on the idea that the words were used interchangeably to describe God's revelation through the Law, my morning devotional reading (Lifewalk, June 24, 2009) actually described a different aspect of the focus of each of the eight words used in Psalm 119. I have reproduced the distinctions below:

• Law (from the word teach) - God's word reveals His will.
• Testimonies or Decrees - God's word is faithful and true.
• Precept - God's word gives particular instructions.
• Statute - God's Word has binding force and permanence.
• Commands - God's word possesses authority.
• Ordinance - God's word gives discernment.
• Promise - God's word is reliable.
• Word - A term referring to God's truth in all its forms.

No other book exists that gives us this accurate representation of God and His constant willingness to interact with us in a way that brings us into relationship with Him. This list explains why every apsect of the teaching ministry at Parkview (puplit and classroom) must be centered on the Scriptures. This book and only this book has the power to transform lives. Psalm 119 might take a few extra minutes to read, but your time would be well-spent. If you only have a few minutes, Psalm 19 provides a Reader's Digest shortened version. Maybe you will agree with the Psalmist that Word of God is more valuable than the finest gold imaginable (Ps. 19:10).