Psalm 27 Study

Notes:

Are there any original hebrew words to find patterns?

How many times is light mentioned in other Psalms?

What is unique about this Psalm?

Verbs are great for application

Light and Confidence, seeking the presence of the Lord, praying

Don’t summarize, you need a punchline. Repetition of words, symmetry, themes.

See stuff that is repeated for the whole Psalm.

1. How has the author organized this passage? Please a) show the structure in sections with verse references and b) explain what strategies you used to see this structure. c) What is the emphasis revealed by the structure?

Verses 1 to 3 - The Lord Saves and Protects. David in verse 1 shows the strength and salvation of the Lord. V2 and V3 go into detail of what the enemies are trying to do but David ends in the last lines that they are the ones who will fall and he will stay confident

Verses 4 to 6 - Heaven is our goal and hope. Davids’ heart is fixated on being in the house of the Lord. Thats the one thing he asks and the one thing he seeks. God alone can hide us from trouble and declare victory over the enemies.

Verses 7 to 10 - David prays that God won’t abandon him. At this moment, we are unsure if David feels God or even hears Him with what is going on. David asks God to hear him, to stay, to not forsake like his parents.

Verses 11 and 12 - Follow the will of God and ask for His help. A path that is level and a way that will stay away from the adversaries that breath out violence.

Verses 13 and 14 - God will work and you will be able to see. Be patient and wait for the Lord.

2. How does the context inform the meaning of this passage? Please consider: a) the literary context (passages before and after the passage), b) the historical context (circumstances of the author’s audience), c) the cultural context (details relevant to life as it was lived in this place at this time), and d) the biblical context (citations/allusions or historical connections to other books that the author is making). Please list only those that are relevant to the meaning of the passage.

A) The psalm follows a pattern found in many laments: a declaration of trust followed by a plea for help. This literary movement underscores the message that confidence in God doesn’t eliminate the need for ongoing dependence on Him.

B) David often faced literal enemies—Saul, Philistines, and later even his own son Absalom. The references to enemies, evildoers, armies, and war (vv. 2–3) would have been very real threats in his life. This heightens the meaning of trusting in God as a stronghold.

C) Desire to dwell in the house of the Lord would evoke the tabernacle or temple—the place of God’s presence, protection, and worship. For ancient Israelites, this was not just a metaphor but a tangible space of divine encounter and refuge.

D) Salvation often alludes to Christ but in this context, David is asking for salvation to happen now. That he would be delivered or saved from the current situation and enemies.

David seeks the kingdom and all will be at rest, which echoes Matthew 6:44.

3. What is the main point the author is arguing to his audience (in one short sentence)?

Have confidence in the Lord who is the light.

4. How does this passage connect to the gospel of Jesus Christ? What part of the gospel is in view?

Christ is the light of the world.

John 8:12 ESV

12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

5. What is the main point you will argue to your audience (in one short sentence)?

In spite of the darkness and fear, find shelter in Christ who is the light.

6. What applications will you make? Consider both Christians and non-Christians.

1. Fix Your Eyes on Heaven: David longed to gaze on the Lord’s beauty—so must we.

Christians: In trials, set your focus on Christ, not circumstances. Worship and Word renew your vision.

Non-Christians: You’re seeking beauty, peace, and meaning. Only Jesus satisfies your soul's deepest longing.

2. Find Shelter in One Thing: God alone is the safe place when life falls apart.

Christians: Run to Christ in fear, not false comforts. He is your refuge and strength.

Non-Christians: Whatever you’re trusting in will fail. Jesus alone offers shelter that saves forever.

3. Confidence Must Be Constant: Even when surrounded by enemies, David remained confident in God.

Christians: Anchor your confidence in who God is, not what you feel. Wait for Him with strength.

Non-Christians: True confidence isn’t in yourself—it’s found in trusting the One who conquered death.

7. What is your sermon title and your preaching outline?

The One Thing I’ll Only Need

Intro - Placing Trust in Things That Fail

I. Confidence (Verses 1-6)

II. Seek and Pray (Verses 7-12)

III. Hope (Verse 13-14)

III. Confidence in the Lord who is the Light

IV. Application: Perspective. Priority. Persistence.

Conclusion