What does "glorious things" in Psalm 87:3 reveal about God's city? Setting the Scene Psalm 87 is a short but rich celebration of Zion—Jerusalem—as the place God Himself has chosen and established. Verse 3 declares: “Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God. Selah.” The phrase “glorious things” opens a window into God’s heart for His city and, by extension, for His people. What “Glorious Things” Means • Literally, “glorious” (Hebrew kāḇôd) carries the sense of weight, splendor, and honor. • “Spoken of you” points to proclamations already uttered by God and His prophets—truths that stand forever. • Together, the words assure us that Zion’s honor is both factual (spoken by God) and magnificent (glorious). Revealed Traits of God’s City • Chosen Foundation – “He has founded His city on the holy mountain” (Psalm 87:1). – God Himself laid the groundwork; the city’s greatness flows from His choice, not human achievement. • Divine Presence – Psalm 46:4-5: “God is within her; she will not be moved.” – Zion’s glory is inseparable from the reality that the LORD dwells there. • Covenant Favor – Psalm 132:13-14: “For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His habitation.” – God’s eternal covenant love clothes the city in unmatched dignity. • Global Magnet – Psalm 87:4-6 predicts nations like Rahab (Egypt) and Babylon being “born” in Zion. – Isaiah 2:2-3 envisions all nations streaming to the mountain of the LORD. – The city’s glory includes its role as a gathering point for every people group. • Life-Giving Source – Psalm 87:7: “All my springs are in you.” – Zion is pictured as the fountainhead of spiritual life, foreshadowing the river of life in Revelation 22:1-2. • Secure and Eternal – Psalm 125:1-2 likens Jerusalem’s security to mountains surrounding her. – God’s city is unshakable because God’s promises are unbreakable. Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • Isaiah 60:1-3—Light and glory rising upon Zion. • Isaiah 62:1-3—Jerusalem crowned with “a diadem in the hand of your God.” • Hebrews 12:22—Believers have come to “Mount Zion … the city of the living God.” • Revelation 21:10-11—The New Jerusalem, “having the glory of God,” fulfills every “glorious thing” ever spoken. Why It Matters Today • Confidence—If God’s city is glorious because He said so, every promise He makes to His people stands just as firm. • Identity—Believers are citizens of this city (Philippians 3:20); its glory defines ours. • Mission—Since Zion is destined to welcome the nations, we joyfully participate in proclaiming the gospel to every tribe and tongue. |
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