TEMPLE WORSHIP – Psalm 147 – 1-11-2026

The poetry of Psalm 147 captures the significance & joy accompanying the rebuilding of the temple and return of exiles under Ezra & Nehemiah to Jerusalem. When the people rose to worship for a quarter of the day under the direction of the Levites, it's easy to imagine this Psalm in their song list. Verses 2, 12, 19 contain references to Jerusalem or Zion. These key verses are a call to worship specifically directed to the people of God. The author will go on to support his call to worship & claim that it is fitting with the rest of his song. The occasion of temple rebuilding is worthy of praise in God's particular grace. In addition, the seasons declare the nature & glory of God. Verses 7-9 associate His care and kindness with the fruitfulness of the growing season while verses 15-18 feature His awesome power to intervene in Judgment demonstrated by harsh winter conditions.