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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 87, 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 {or} Song for the sons of Korah.] His foundation {is} in the holy mountains. {for the sons: or, of the sons}
Psalms 87:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
Psalms 87:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.
Psalms 87:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; this {man} was born there.
Psalms 87:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her.
Psalms 87:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, {that} this {man} was born there. Selah.
Psalms 87:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 As well the singers as the players on instruments {shall be there}: all my springs {are} in thee.
Psalms 87:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.