Psalm 12 (11):4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe how the prophet expresses concern for them. His words are not a condemnation but an appeal for their well-being. He did not proclaim that they would be lost; instead, he indicated that wickedness would be eradicated. He did not declare, "The Lord will devour them," but rather referred to "the mouth of the flatterers." In this instance, he seeks not the ruin of their essence but the downfall of their speech, their pride, their deception, and their haughtiness.

He states this universally, ensuring that no individual can view themselves as exempt, as the apostle communicates, ‘For every soul of man that doeth evil, first, the Jew, and the Gentile.’ (Rom. 2:9) A tongue that boasts arrogantly: an arrogant tongue.

Is it not the tongue that presumes to question the Savior: ‘By what authority are you performing these acts? And who has granted you this power?’ (Mark 11:28)?

Throughout Scripture, there are numerous instances where expressions of longing are articulated in the future tense, as seen in this context. David prays for the everlasting downfall of the deceitful and those who lift themselves above the humble, boasting in their own greatness. In these verses, David foretells the ruin of the cunning, referring to them as those who boast about themselves. He further declares, Rexhia: our speech shall be exalted.

Observe that he expresses this with genuine devotion, condemning the faults themselves rather than the individuals, many of whom need to experience a change of heart.

In these statements, a prophecy unfolds regarding those who wield their tongues for flattery, believing they can derive some advantage from it. Those who engage in slander and gossip will face eternal consequences. The speaker has linked the words of the flatterers to those who speak excessively, illustrating that individuals who indulge in flattery not only inflict harm upon their neighbors but also take pride in their words. They exalt their skill with accolades, treating the speech of the talkative as if it holds great significance, thereby showing contempt for God, who bestowed upon humanity the gift of speech to honor His name. With our mouths, we assert our independence, declaring that we acknowledge no authority over us. By our speech, we shall prevail. Such were the sycophants at the court of David in the era of Saul; such was Pharaoh, such was Rabshakeh, and such was Nebuchadnezzar.

Those who speak flattering words and engage in deceit, remaining false on all occasions, tarnish both mind and conscience. They profess faith in God, yet their actions ultimately separate them from Him, much like Judas, Arius, and others (Titus 1:16). Their transgression lies in their disbelief in Christ and their refusal to embrace salvation.