The Blessing of God's Indwelling Place

Wed, May 6, 2020 Bethel Baptist Church, Laramie, WY Pastor Nathan Sehi Many of us are inspired by the beautiful pictures of places like Paris and Rome. We might mistake this Psalm as a description of a beautiful city. But Psalm 48 is not a picture of a beautiful city. It is a picture of a wonderful God indwelling and blessing a city. Jerusalem was a crowing jewel of Israel not because of its material splendor and fortified position. It was a crowning Jewel because God was there showing love, guidance, and protection. Psalm 48 – The Blessing of God’s Indwelling Place Questions 1) Why was the dwelling of God in the Temple a blessing to the city of Jerusalem? What does this Psalm communicate about Jerusalem’s real defense? 2) What does this Psalm teach us about God? How is this a comfort to us in our everyday Christian lives? NET: This so-called “Song of Zion” celebrates the greatness and glory of the Lord’s dwelling place, Jerusalem. His presence in the city elevates it above all others and assures its security. ESV Study: it recognizes that though material fortresses may have their place, it is crucial that God himself be the defense of his people. Author: Korahites (Plural) Structure: A strophe Psalm Outline: Modified from Teach the Text 1. Mount Zion extolled as the “city of the Great King” (48:1–3) 2. Reaction of kings to Mount Zion’s impregnability, told in the psalmist’s own words (48:4–6) 3. Prayer in the temple affirming God’s unfailing love (48:7–11) a. A flash of historical memory (48:7) b. Prayerful meditation on God’s unfailing love (48:8–11) 4. Admonition to Mount Zion’s pilgrims (48:12–13) 5. Concluding benediction: The eternal guidance of God (48:14) Cross References 1 Peter 2:4-5, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Romans 8:9. 3) What is the significance of the Christian being the temple of God? What are the blessings of God’s indwelling presence with the believer?