United Commentaries

Ps.20.1-24.10

This sequence of psalms expresses the experience of moving from confidence and commitment (Pss 20–21), through anguish and abandonment (Ps 22), and finally to comfort, insight, and hope (Pss 23–24).

Ps.23.1-28.9

These psalms develop the importance of integrity (25:4-7, 12-14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7-12), God’s shepherding care (23:1; 28:9), God’s guidance (23:2-3; 25:5; 27:11), God’s goodness (23:6; 25:7-8; 27:13), and living in his house (23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8).

Ps.24.1-10

The shepherd of Ps 23, who is also the King of the whole world, takes possession of Zion.

Ps.24.1-2

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

Ps.24.1

The Lord created and now rules the earth and everything in it (see 1 Cor 10:25-26). He sees all its people (Ps 33:14), regardless of their status (49:1-2).

Ps.24.2

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

Ps.24.3-6

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

Ps.24.3

These questions invite readers to look away from their problems with the wicked and to examine themselves (see 15:1).

God’s holy place is the holy mountain, a reference both to Jerusalem and to heaven.

Ps.24.4

Those with pure hands have not shed blood or injured relationships between people (see 9:12; 15:2-5).

Those with pure hearts commit themselves fully to the Lord, as evidenced in strength of character, transparency, and selflessness (51:10; 73:1; see Matt 5:8).

Ps.24.10

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies reigns from his home, the Temple in Jerusalem (84:3-5). He excludes sin and sinners (24:3-6) but protects all who dwell in Zion.