Psalm 15

Psalm 15 (NIV)

A psalm of David.

1 LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?
2 He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the LORD,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things
will never be shaken.

Observation
What are some of the key idea or word that has been repeated throughout the Psalm?

1. Who can draw near to God and worship in His dwelling place?

The acceptable person is one
a. whose walk is blameless, and,
b. His actions are righteous.

2. How many characteristics of a flawless person are listed?

Eight.

3. What are these characteristics? [+]

a. He speaks ….truth sincerely. He is not like double-minded flatters.
b. A righteous person does not slander maliciously.
c. A righteous person does not harm his neighbor.
d. A righteous person does not discredit his neighbor.
e. A righteous person despises vile people and honors believers who fear the Lord. Those who fear the Lord, honor God and order their lives in accordance of his will.)
f. A righteous person keeps his oath even when it hurts (even if he took his oath rashly, he would conscientiously keep his word)
g. A righteous person does not lend his money for usury (taking interest on loan).
h. A righteous person does not take bribes against the innocent.

Interpretation
Background:

David pondered the matter of who may dwell in the Lord’s sanctuary, the tabernacle, located in the holy hill, Zion, the City of David.

The metaphor of the “walk” is used throughout the bible for one’s pattern of life and conduct.

“Blameless” means complete, sincere or perfect. A blameless person lives in obedience to God and maintains a life of integrity. His activities are righteous.

David thus declared that if someone were to go into the presence of the Lord in Zion, he must be an obedient and righteous servant. The wicked and hypocritical did not belong in the sanctuary.

Q: What is the theme?
A: this psalm explains who is worthy to be a “guest” of the Lord. The psalmist described the flawless character of one who is fit to worship in the Lord’s sanctuary.

Q: What is the key verse?
A: Verse 1

Q: Who can enter into God’s presence?
A: Someone who is an obedient and righteous servant.

Q: What will a flawless person “gain”?
A: He will not be shaken, remain undisturbed in his prosperity and happiness. He will enjoy fellowship in the Lord’s presence. He will also experience divine blessing and security.

Application
Subject:
How can we receive God’s happiness for you and be prosperous?

Complement:

• Grow to Desire God and His Word
Ask of a supernatural desire for the WORD
• Grow to be Disciplined in His Word
Ask of a supernatural encounter and revelation of the WORD
• Grow to Delight yourself in His presence and Word
Ask of a new joy to know the LORD