Today’s Sermon: Psalm 23, “The Lord, the Psalmist’s Shepherd” by Pastor Jim Bomkamp

Background for Prev. Psalm 21: 1. We saw that this Psalm is a song of praise for deliverance, and it properly referred to as a Messianic Psalm, as it foretells the victory and resultant praise that the Messiah (Jesus) would express. 2. We saw that this Psalm is a song about the multitude of blessings and great joy that the Messiah had because of the Lord’s “preventing grace”.

Background for Prev. Psalm 22: 1. A Messianic Psalm: It has been said that there is hardly a word that is written that could apply to the life of King David himself. Also, when upon the cross, in one of Jesus’ seven sayings, was a quote of verse 1 of this Psalm. 2. As much as any passage in the rest of the scripture details the agonies and indecencies that Jesus went through upon the cross. 3. There are a huge number of Messianic prophesies in this Psalm that were fulfilled to the tee when Jesus came to the earth the first time

Background for Psalm 23: 1. Probably written towards the end of King David’s life. 2. Most people have only heard this Psalm at a funeral. 3. There is no plea, prayer, crying out or sharing of difficulties. 4. Many passages of scripture reveal that the Lord views Himself as our shepherd. 5. Jesus definitely grasped onto this concept (John 10:7-18). A. The marks of Christ’s sheep: B. Characteristics of the good shepherd: 6. Ways in which people resemble sheep:

Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.”

Psalm 23:2 “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.”

Psalm 23:3 “He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.”

Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

Psalm 23:5 “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows.”

Psalm 23:6 “Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Conclusions: 1. Be Comforted. 2. Don’t fear. 3. Let the Lord lead you to rest. 4. Let the Lord lead you to pasture. 5. Recognize that goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life. 6. Take advantage of your opportunities to dwell in the house of the Lord.

Psalm 23 Video: