Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 14

PSALM 14

Psa 14:1-7. The practical atheism and total and universal depravity of the wicked, with their hatred to the good, are set forth. Yet, as they dread God's judgments when He vindicates His people, the Psalmist prays for His delivering power.

1. Sinners are termed "fools," because they think and act contrary to right reason (Ge 34:7; Jos 7:15; Psa 39:8; 74:18, 22).

in his heart--to himself (Ge 6:12).

2. looked--in earnest enquiry.

understand--as opposed to "fool" [Psa 14:1].

3. filthy--literally, "spoiled," or, "soured," "corrupted" (Job 15:16; Ro 3:12).

4-6. Their conduct evinces indifference rather than ignorance of God; for when He appears in judgment, they are stricken with great fear.

who eat up my people--to express their beastly fury (Pr 30:14; Ha 3:14). To "call on the Lord" is to worship Him.

7. captivity--denotes any great evil.

Zion--God's abode, from which He revealed His purposes of mercy, as He now does by the Church (compare Psa 3:4; 20:2), and which He rules and in which He does all other things for the good of His people (Ep 1:22).