Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 24

This series of psalms shows a journey from confidence and commitment (Psalms 20–21), through anguish and abandonment (Psalm 22), and finally to comfort, insight, and hope (Psalms 23–24).

These psalms develop the importance of:

• integrity (Psalms 25:4–7, 12–14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7–12),

• God's care as a shepherd (Psalms 23:1; 28:9),

• God's guidance (Psalms 23:2–3; 25:5; 27:11),

• God's goodness (Psalms 23:6; 25:7–8; 27:13), and

• living in his house (Psalms 23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).

The shepherd from Psalm 23, who is also the King of the world, takes control of Zion.

The kingdom belongs to the Creator, the Great King (see Psalm 22:27).

The Lord made the earth and everything in it, and now he rules over it (see 1 Corinthians 10:25–26). He sees all its people (Psalm 33:14), no matter their status (49:1–2).

God created everything in an orderly and stable manner (see Psalm 89:11; 102:25; 104:5).

The citizens of the King’s realm include all who seek him. The Lord invites them to enter his presence.

• These questions encourage people to stop focusing on their issues with the wicked and to reflect on themselves (see Psalm 15:1).

• God's holy place is the holy mountain, referring to both Jerusalem and heaven.

• People with clean hands have not caused harm or damaged relationships (see Psalm 9:12; 15:2–5).

• People with pure hearts dedicate themselves completely to the Lord. This is shown through strong character, honesty, and selflessness (Psalm 51:10; 73:1; see Matthew 5:8).

The LORD of Hosts rules from his home, the temple in Jerusalem (Psalm 84:3–5). He keeps out sin and sinners (Psalm 24:326) but protects everyone living in Zion.