The book of Psalms starts with the word “Blessed.” The names “Messiah” and “Jehovah” (Lord) appear 270 times in the Psalms. This shows how much the “Person” occupied and filled David’s affections.
Because of their prophetic character, the Psalms are the expression of the Holy Spirit’s operation in the soul before it finds peace.
Psalms 1-41
This first book (division) is similar to Genesis: the Man, Christ associating Himself with the remnant of the latter days. Much personal history of the Messiah is found therein. This book ends with adoring worship (Psa. 41:1313Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. Amen, and Amen. (Psalm 41:13)).
Psalms 42-72
This book is similar to Exodus: redemption work and Messiah identifying Himself with the godly of the land in the last days. Very few distinctly Kingdom or Messianic psalms are found in this second division. The faithful remnant call upon God as they are being taunted by apostates. Korah is mentioned 11 times. The second division ends with wondering worship (Psa. 72:1818Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. (Psalm 72:18)).
Psalms 73-89
The third division is like Leviticus, suggesting the sanctuary. Asaph is preeminently mentioned in this division. The third book tells of the history of all Israel from her rise in Egypt until her blessing under the rule of the Messiah in millennial glory and blessing. This division ends in ceaseless worship (Psa. 89:5252Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen. (Psalm 89:52)).
Psalms 90-106
The fourth division is like Numbers. Moses and the wilderness are suggested to the heart. Successive announcements of Jehovah’s (Christ’s) coming and the blessing of His reign, His person and presence. These are joyous psalms. Jehovah’s relationship restored with restored Israel and the coming of Jehovah (Messiah) for the blessing of Israel and the whole creation is anticipated. The fourth book ends in submissive worship (Psa. 106:4848Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 106:48)).
Psalms 107-150
Somewhat similar to Deuteronomy—the law and land. David is often mentioned, and moral truths are contained in these chapters. There are many songs and much universal praise. Only in this book is there reference to Melchisedec. It closes in perfected worship (Psa. 150:66Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 150:6)).
The three first divisions end with “Amen, and Amen,” while the two last divisions close with “Praise ye the Lord.”
N. Berry