Problem Passages: New Testament Use of Psalms In The Book Of Hebrews

Problem Passages #2:  Psalm 40:6-8/ Hebrews 10:5-9

The context of Psalm 40 is a grand mixture of thanksgiving, prayer and lament. These are the words of David “the lesser” but point to the fulfillment of David “the greater.” The author recalls past difficulty and employs imagery to describe his predicament.  He was in a “horrible pit” (v.2), a position of desperation. There was an urgent need for delivery from distress to which God “turned and listened to his cry”[14] (v.2). God’s grace was extended, and David moves from helplessness to hopefulness as God “established his steps” (v.2b). David yet again has a testimony (a new song; v.3).

Yahweh put a new song in David’s mouth by undertaking the act that inspired it.”[15] The author continues his song by affirming the blessedness of trusting Yahweh and extolling his wonderful works.

How should man respond to such a God? This is the focus of the immediate context (vv.6-8). Certainly not (only) in sacrifices and offerings (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22-3). More than external devotion, Yahweh seeks that which is inclined toward him (v.6).  Again, in his prophetic flow, David pulls on Saul’s insincerity for which he was rebuked (1 Sam. 15:22) and “anticipates the Servant prophecies and the New Covenant.”[16] While David states “My ears you have opened” (v.6), the LXX alludes to “a body prepared”, pointing to the ministry and learned obedience of the Messiah.[17]

This double-speak of David in verse six (“my ears you have opened”) alludes to obedience and dedication, ultimately realized in Christ’s life, death, burial, and resurrection. Pulling on the Hebrew writings, verse 6b “is traditionally assumed to mean that Yahweh has opened up the worshipper’s hearing to be able to agree to do what Yahweh wants in place of bringing offerings.”[18] 

David then, was not saying sacrifices were improper; rather he was emphasizing the need for a proper sacrifice (Heb. 9:22), with a heart prepared to do God’s will. David alludes to this in verse 8, while Christ models this in the garden of Gethsemane (Lk. 22:42) and ultimately as the ultimate sacrifice for sins (Heb.10).