Introduction
Psalm 87 is a short but powerful psalm celebrating the greatness of Zion, the city of God. It speaks of Zion’s unique status as the birthplace of God’s people and the place where God’s presence is known. The psalm celebrates not only the physical city of Jerusalem but also the spiritual significance it holds in God’s plan for His people. Through this psalm, the nations are called to recognize Zion’s importance as the place where God dwells and reigns.
Background of Psalm 87
Psalm 87 is attributed to the sons of Korah, who were temple singers. This psalm reflects the joyful and celebratory nature of the people of Israel as they recognize Jerusalem as the center of God’s kingdom. It speaks of the blessings and honor bestowed on the city of Zion, symbolizing God’s presence among His people. Zion represents not only the physical city of Jerusalem but also the spiritual reality of God’s rule over His people. The psalm envisions a time when all nations will recognize the importance of Zion.
What Does Psalm 87 Mean?
Psalm 87 can be broken down into several sections that reflect Zion’s glory and the honor given to it by God:
- Verses 1–3: The psalmist begins by declaring that the foundation of the city of Zion is established by God Himself. This city is praised for its greatness because of God’s presence there.
- Verses 4–6: The psalmist speaks of the inclusion of foreign nations in Zion’s blessings. People from different nations and cities are called to join in the celebration of Zion’s glory.
- Verse 7: The psalm concludes with a declaration of joy from those who recognize Zion’s greatness. The city is seen as a place of rejoicing for all who are blessed to be part of it.
Verse Mapping Psalm 87:3
“Glorious things are said about you, city of God.” (CSB)
- Word Study
- Glorious – In the Hebrew, this word refers to something that is magnificent, splendid, or worthy of praise. It highlights the beauty and majesty of Zion in the eyes of God and His people.
- Things are said – This phrase implies that others speak about Zion, acknowledging its greatness and importance. It refers to the widespread recognition of Zion’s significance.
- City of God – Zion, or Jerusalem, is referred to as the city of God because it is the place where God’s presence dwells. It is a sacred and holy city in the eyes of the Israelites.
- Cross-References
- Psalm 48:1-2 – “The Lord is great and is highly praised in the city of our God. His holy mountain, rising splendidly, is the joy of the whole earth.”
- Revelation 21:2 – “I also saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband.”
- Hebrews 12:22 – “Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to myriads of angels in festive gathering.”
- Paraphrase People speak of your magnificence, O city of God, acknowledging your splendor and honor.
- Application Zion is celebrated for being the dwelling place of God. Similarly, the Church today is called the “spiritual Zion,” as it is the place where God’s presence is experienced through the Holy Spirit. As believers, we are part of this spiritual Zion, and we too should be praised for the way God’s presence is seen in our lives. This verse invites us to reflect on the glory of God’s presence in the Church and in our own hearts.
How Can We Apply Psalm 87 Today?
- Recognize God’s Presence Just as Zion was praised for being the city where God dwells, we should recognize that our lives are the dwelling place of God’s Spirit. As believers, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we should honor Him in how we live and interact with others.
- Celebrate the Church The Church, both local and universal, is a modern expression of Zion. It is the place where God’s people gather to worship and experience His presence. We should celebrate the Church and actively participate in the life of the community, praising God for the fellowship we share.
- Call Others to Join in Worship Psalm 87 speaks of people from all nations acknowledging Zion’s greatness. Similarly, we are called to invite others to experience the greatness of God. Sharing the message of God’s love and salvation with others helps to expand the celebration of God’s presence beyond our own community.
- Anticipate the New Jerusalem Just as Psalm 87 speaks of Zion’s glory, we can look forward to the future reality of the New Jerusalem described in Revelation. As believers, we are promised a future where we will dwell with God forever in His holy city. This promise should fill us with hope and joy as we live out our faith today.
Reflection Questions
- How do you see God’s presence in your life today? In what ways can you honor Him as the dwelling place of His Spirit?
- How can you celebrate the Church and its role in your spiritual life?
- What steps can you take to invite others to experience the greatness of God?
- How does the promise of the New Jerusalem impact your perspective on life and faith?
A Closing Prayer
Lord, we thank You for the glorious city of Zion, where Your presence dwells. We praise You for the Church, Your spiritual Zion, and the gift of Your Spirit in our lives. Help us to recognize Your greatness in all things and to invite others to join in the celebration of Your glory. We look forward to the day when we will dwell with You forever in the New Jerusalem. Amen.
Final Thoughts
Psalm 87 is a beautiful reminder of the greatness of God’s presence, both in Zion and in our own lives. It calls us to celebrate God’s glory, recognize His work in our communities, and invite others to join in the joy of His kingdom. As we live as part of God’s spiritual Zion, we are reminded of the future hope of dwelling with Him forever in the New Jerusalem.
