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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 15, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [A Psalm of David.] LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? {abide: Heb. sojourn}
Psalms 15:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
Psalms 15:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 {He that} backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. {taketh...: or, receiveth, or, endureth}
Psalms 15:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. {He that} sweareth to {his own} hurt, and changeth not.
Psalms 15:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 {He that} putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these {things} shall never be moved.
Psalms 15:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.