Purpose: To remind all believers of God's comforting presence
Introduction: This psalm is part of the second book of Psalms (42-72), which focuses on the troubles and security of God's people. This book shifts from using predominantly Yahweh as a name for God to mostly Elohim. This psalm was a favorite of Martin Luther. His classic hymn, A Mighty Fortress, has its roots in this psalm. This psalm follows Psalm 45, which tells us the King is coming. This psalm tells us where the King will live.
1) Settled confidence in God's PROTECTIVE PRESENCE—46:1-3 a) The parallel stating God's protection of His people—46:1 b) The result of embracing His presence—46:2-3 2 Therefore, we will not fear, c) Pause—Selah.
2) Comparison of responses to God's PROTECTIVE PRESENCE—46:4-7 a) Jerusalem rejoices—46:4-5 b) But not everyone appreciates God's presence—46:6 c) Parallels—46:7 d) Pause—Selah.
3) Commands to obey in light of God's FUTURE PRESENCE—46:8-11 a) Commands to actively observe His future work—46:8-9 b) Command to focus on God and not fear—46:10 (cf. 46:2) • Note well the shift to first person pronouns for God c) Restatement of the essential truth of God's presence—46:11 (cf. 46:7) d) Pause—Selah.
4) Summary and applications a) Remember Gabriel's comforting words to Mary (Luke 1:28). b) Remember Jesus's comforting words about His presence (Matthew 28:20). c) Remember Jesus's comforting words about the Spirit's presence (John 14:16). d) Remember Jesus's comforting words to Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:10). e) Remember Paul's comforting words (2nd Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 4:9; 2nd Timothy 4:22).
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By God's amazing grace alone, Phil was drawn to salvation in Jesus Christ as a college freshman. He began his pastoral ministry as an assistant pastor (working specifically with youth and music) in 1983 while in seminary. He became the senior pastor here at Calvary in December...
