THE CITIZEN OF ZION AND HIS INHERITANCE

Psa_15:1-5; Psa_16:1-11



The first of these psalms was probably composed to celebrate the bringing of the Ark to Mount Zion, 1Sa_6:20. It describes the character of those who have fellowship with God and dwell in His house all the days of their earthly lot. To the challenge of the soloist, Psa_15:1, the choir makes response, Psa_15:2-5, first positively, then negatively. We must act as non-conductors to evil; must mind what company we keep; and must cultivate a spirit of love and self-sacrifice which will never take advantage of others, Psa_15:5. Here is the secret of permanence and peace.

Michtam means “golden,” and may be truly applied to the next psalm, as also to Psa_56:1-13; Psa_57:1-11; Psa_58:1-11; Psa_59:1-17; Psa_60:1-12. Others explain the word as a “secret.” It is the song of the golden secret. The key is furnished in Act_2:25. The Apostle Paul expressly emphasizes the divine authorship in Act_13:35-38. Our Lord may have repeated Psa_16:8-11 when He was descending the dark valley, and so may we.