By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Systematic Theology, University of Mobile
GOD’S PROMISE
Psalm 132:1–14, 17–18
The theme of this royal psalm is God’s covenant with the house of David to establish the dynasty for the good of the people and eventually, of the world. It is the longest of the 15 Songs of Ascents, twice as long as any other psalm in this collection. The length of this psalm suggests that its subject matter was a primary focus for the Jewish pilgrims as they made their ascent to Jerusalem.
The first half of the psalm reveals David’s resolve to make sure the Ark of the Covenant is relocated to Jerusalem. The second half expresses God’s resolve to stand by David’s dynasty and His own choosing of Zion.
God’s Dwelling Place (1–10)
The writer of this psalm begins by asking God to “remember David and all the hardships he endured.” David had endured attacks from his enemies as well as disappointments when he had attempted to move the Ark to Jerusalem.
David had sworn an oath to the Lord that he would not rest until he had built a dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant. David demonstrated his zeal for God’s honor, and he pledged to see this matter through at all costs and with all diligence. David was more concerned about fulfilling his vow to God than he was about his own physical needs.
In verses 6–10 the psalmist records the response of David and the people in worship as the priests move the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.
God’s Commitment (11–14)
God’s covenant with David that was made in 2 Samuel 7:12–16 is summarized in these verses. God had promised David that one of his Descendants would rule a Kingdom that would never end. This pledge to perpetuate the house of David included other promises that would flower into the messianic hope (Ps. 89:19–37).
The covenant the Lord made with David required David’s descendants to obey the covenantal stipulations. Although many disobeyed, there was a distant Descendant who would come and fulfill all the law of God perfectly.
There was hope because God had chosen Zion to be His home forever. David did not enthrone the Lord at Zion. The Lord placed David on the throne of Israel in Jerusalem. This choice was based on the Lord’s sovereign pleasure. From Zion the Lord dwells (Ps. 135:21), and from Zion He gives blessing (Ps. 128:5; 134:3).
The Lord’s choice of Zion preceded both the Davidic covenant and the building of the temple, and it will continue even if the Davidic dynasty fails — which it did — and the temple is destroyed — which it was.
The Coming Messiah (17–18)
In these verses the Lord employs two metaphors that describe the ultimate Descendant of David. First, He is described as a growing horn. “Horn” is used in the Bible as a symbol for strength, often referring to powerful kings. The psalmist is declaring that a powerful King would be born as a descendant of David. The Gospel of Matthew begins, “An account of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David” (Matt. 1:1).
Second, He is described as a lamp. He will be a light that cannot be extinguished. Jesus is described as “that light (that) shines in the darkness” (John 1:5). This growing horn and lamp that will never be extinguished will be honored in the eternal Kingdom while the wicked will be shamed and face God’s righteous judgment.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
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