Psalm 24
The King of Glory and His Kingdom
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Intro
Psalm 24 is a majestic psalm that highlights the lordship of God and the exaltation of the King of Glory. As we study this psalm from a New Covenant perspective, we will see how it points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of its prophetic imagery. We will explore the themes of God's ownership, the requirements for approaching His presence, and the glorious entrance of the King of Glory.
Section 1: The Earth and Its Fullness Belong to the Lord (vs 1-2)
"The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for He founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters."
Talking Points:
The recognition that God is the rightful owner of the entire earth and everything in it.
The understanding that God's ownership extends to all who live in the world.
The acknowledgment of God as the Creator and Sustainer of the earth.
Harmony: 1 Corinthians 10:26 "For, 'The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.'"
Questions:
How does the truth that the earth and everything in it belongs to the Lord impact your perspective on stewardship and ownership?
In what ways can we honor God as the Creator and Sustainer of the world in our daily lives?
How does recognizing God's ownership over all things influence how we view and treat others?
Section 2: The Requirement for the King of Glory (vs 3-6)
"Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully. He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek Your face, O God of Jacob."
Talking Points:
The question of who is worthy to approach and stand in the presence of the LORD.
The characteristics of those who can come before God, including clean hands, a pure heart, and a devotion to God alone.
The promise of blessing and vindication for those who seek the LORD's face.
Harmony: Matthew 5:8 "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God."
Questions:
What does it mean to have clean hands and a pure heart in our relationship with God?
How can we guard against idolatry and deceitfulness in our lives?
How does the promise of blessing and vindication motivate us to seek God and pursue righteousness?
Section 3: The Entrance of the King of Glory (vs 7-10)
"Lift up your heads, O gates! Be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of Glory may enter! Who is this King of Glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O gates! Be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of Glory may enter! Who is this King of Glory? The LORD of Hosts—He is the King of Glory!"
Talking Points:
The call for the gates and doors to lift up and welcome the King of Glory.
The question of who this King of Glory is, with the answer highlighting the LORD's strength, might, and victory in battle.
The repeated call for the gates and doors to open, affirming the LORD as the King of Glory.
Harmony: Revelation 19:11 "Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse. And its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war."
Questions:
How does the image of the gates and doors lifting up to welcome the King of Glory inspire your understanding of Jesus as the victorious King?
In what ways can we lift up the "gates" of our hearts and lives to allow the King of Glory to enter?
How does the truth that Jesus is the King of Glory shape your worship and devotion to Him?
Summary
Psalm 24, interpreted through a New Covenant, Christ-centered perspective, celebrates the Lord as the Creator and King, a picture fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
The opening declaration of God's ownership of the earth and everything in it echoes Christ's lordship over all creation (Colossians 1:16-17).
The question of who may ascend the hill of the Lord and stand in His holy place foreshadows our access to God through Christ, who lived a sinless life, and through His sacrifice, provides the purity needed to approach God (Hebrews 4:16).
The imagery of lifting up gates and everlasting doors heralds the King of glory, pointing to Jesus' victorious resurrection and ascension as the King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).
The repetition of "Who is this King of glory?" emphasizes the supreme authority of Christ who defeated sin and death.
Psalm 24 presents a prophetic picture of Christ's reign and the open access His followers have to the presence of God.