A Study In Contrasts

1.THE PERSONS THAT ARE PRESENTED

No in-betweens here-either just or wicked-we are either saved or not saved, no matter how religious we may think we are.

Examples - Pilate`s wife & Pilate himself called the Lord Jesus "Just"

The Lord called the devil the "wicked one" and said in John 8:44 " Ye are of your father the devil..."
Cain was called "of that wicked one"

2.THE EFFECTS THAT ARE EXPERIENCED

v6 " Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked"

"upon the head"-comes upon them like a crown that sits on the head

"mouth of the wicked"- the means by which the evil persecute Gods people. Think of those who persecuted Gods people with their words or counsel & see their end-Goliath,Ahithophel, Hamaan

3. THE LEGACIES THAT ARE LEFT

v7 "The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot."

The just leave behind fragrant memories- mention names of wicked, it is distasteful-most cannot tell names of Martin Luther`s inquisitors, but his name endures.

Luke 16- Lazarus named, but name of rich man not given.
Hitler-the very name speaks of bitterness and hate.

CONCLUSION

1. Choices-we either want to be just or wicked-will you take Christ as Saviour ?
2. Consequences-die wicked, your name won`t amount to much and you will be in hell -
   Die just, and your name will have fragrant memories & you will be with Christ forever

Repent and receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour !