Sermon Discussion Questions
Psalm 122
1. This Psalm of David describes the anticipation and joy of having journeyed to Jerusalem and finally stepped foot within its walls. Try to imagine the experience of these early pilgrims of the faith. What range of emotions might they have felt in arriving in the city of Jerusalem?
2. Jerusalem was a compact city, in which houses fit closely together (a quick Google image search of the ESV study Bible illustration of the ancient city of Jerusalem could be helpful here). Verse 3 describes it as “bound firmly together.” How does this idea of people coming from various tribes and being fit together as they worship help us understand the importance of corporate worship?
3. The focal point of the city of Jerusalem is the House of the Lord – the tabernacle in the time of David and the temple during time of Solomon. What is so special about this place within the city?
4. St. Augustine said, “A Christian should be an Alleluia from head to foot.” Do you typically feel that way when you come in to worship on a Sunday morning (you can be honest here )? How do you often feel when coming in for corporate worship?
5. Verse 4 states that it was God’s decree that His people come to Jerusalem for worship to give thanks to the name of the Lord. This was to be done willingly and obediently for the three pilgrimage festivals each year (Passover, Feast of Weeks, and Feast of Booths). How do “decreed” rhythms of worship shape our affections for God even today? (Hint: Just as in a marriage, deepening affection comes as a result of commitment, not the other way around).
6. Jerusalem is the place where David sat on his throne in judgment. This was the high point in the history of God’s people before Christ. We look forward to the day when we will step foot in the New Jerusalem where King Jesus, the true descendent of David, will sit in judgment and bring eternal shalom. Spend some time praying for God to give us deeper joy as we worship Him together.
7. Read 1 Peter 2:4-5:
[4] As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, [5] you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
As you continue in prayer, ask that God would not only build us up as a spiritual house together, but bring new believers in as they see us faithfully “go to the House of the Lord.”
Bonus Question worth 100 points of extra credit: How does Psalm 122 help explain why Christians who are physically able to be present for Sunday worship can’t skip the hassle and watch church online in our comfy PJ’s?? (Written in love as one who also struggles)!