Psalms 133
BSB1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2 It is like fine oil on the head, running down on the beard, running down Aaron’s beard over the collar of his robes. 3 It is like the dew of Hermon falling on the mountains of Zion. For there the LORD has bestowed the blessing of life forevermore.
Study Notes — Psalms 133
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Psalms 133
- Themes from Psalms 133
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Psalms 133
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Psalms 133 begins by describing the beauty of unity among brothers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, symbolizing the presence and blessing of God (Psalms 133:1-2). The psalm then describes how this unity is like the dew of Mount Hermon, which brings life and refreshment to the land (Psalms 133:3). The chapter concludes by emphasizing that God commands His blessing on those who live in unity, and that this is where life and joy are found (Psalms 133:3). Throughout the chapter, the psalmist emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God.
Context for the Chapter
Psalms 133 is a psalm of ascent, which means that it was sung by pilgrims as they journeyed to Jerusalem to worship at the temple. The chapter is part of a collection of psalms that celebrate the joy and delight of worshiping God, and it emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another. The chapter is also part of the larger narrative of the Psalms, which celebrates the character and actions of God, and the importance of living in relationship with Him.
Heart Application
As believers, we are called to live in unity and harmony with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one. This means that we should strive to resolve conflicts and live in peace with one another, and that we should prioritize the importance of unity and harmony in our relationships. By doing so, we reflect the character of God and bring joy and delight to His heart.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Psalms 133 is a short chapter that celebrates the beauty of unity and harmony among believers. It emphasizes the importance of living in peace and unity with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. The chapter looks forward to the day when all believers will be united in worship and praise, and it highlights the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another. As believers, we should strive to live in unity and harmony with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one.
Voices from the Church
“The unity of the church is the most powerful argument for the truth of Christianity. When believers live in harmony with one another, it is a witness to the world of the power and love of God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The church is the body of Christ, and just as the body is one, so the church should be one. This unity is a key aspect of our worship and praise, and it is something that believers should strive for in their relationships with one another.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Beauty of Unity (Psalms 133:1-2) — The chapter begins by describing the beauty of unity among brothers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, and the dew of Mount Hermon.
- The Importance of Harmony (Psalms 133:3) — The chapter emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God.
- The Promise of Blessing (Psalms 133:3) — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another.
- The Call to Unity (Psalms 133:1-3) — The chapter calls believers to live in unity and harmony with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one.
- The Witness of Unity (Psalms 133:1-3) — The chapter highlights the importance of unity as a witness to the world of the power and love of God.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Unity
- This chapter teaches the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. As believers, we are called to strive for unity and harmony in our relationships with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one.
- The Beauty of Harmony
- The chapter celebrates the beauty of harmony among believers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, and the dew of Mount Hermon. This highlights the joy and delight that comes from living in harmony with one another.
- The Promise of Blessing
- The chapter concludes by emphasizing the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should look forward to with hope and anticipation.
- The Witness of Unity
- The chapter highlights the importance of unity as a witness to the world of the power and love of God. When believers live in harmony with one another, it is a powerful argument for the truth of Christianity.
Lessons from Psalms 133
- The Importance of Unity — This chapter teaches the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. As believers, we are called to strive for unity and harmony in our relationships with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one.
- The Beauty of Harmony — The chapter celebrates the beauty of harmony among believers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, and the dew of Mount Hermon. This highlights the joy and delight that comes from living in harmony with one another.
- The Promise of Blessing — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should look forward to with hope and anticipation.
- The Witness of Unity — The chapter highlights the importance of unity as a witness to the world of the power and love of God. When believers live in harmony with one another, it is a powerful argument for the truth of Christianity.
- The Call to Unity — The chapter calls believers to live in unity and harmony with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should strive for in their relationships with one another.
Themes from Psalms 133
- Unity — The chapter emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. As believers, we are called to strive for unity and harmony in our relationships with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one.
- Harmony — The chapter celebrates the beauty of harmony among believers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, and the dew of Mount Hermon. This highlights the joy and delight that comes from living in harmony with one another.
- Blessing — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should look forward to with hope and anticipation.
- Witness — The chapter highlights the importance of unity as a witness to the world of the power and love of God. When believers live in harmony with one another, it is a powerful argument for the truth of Christianity.
- Love — The chapter emphasizes the importance of living in love and harmony with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should strive for in their relationships with one another.
Questions for Meditation
- What does it mean to live in unity and harmony with one another, and how can we strive for this in our relationships?
- How does the beauty of harmony among believers reflect the character of God?
- What is the promise of God to those who live in unity and harmony with one another, and how can we look forward to this with hope and anticipation?
- How can we prioritize the importance of unity and harmony in our relationships, and what are some practical steps we can take to achieve this?
- What is the witness of unity to the world, and how can we demonstrate this in our lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Beauty of Unity (Psalms 133:1-2)
| Psalms 133:1 | The chapter begins by describing the beauty of unity among brothers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head. |
| Psalms 133:2 | The psalmist then describes how this unity is like the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, symbolizing the presence and blessing of God. |
2. The Importance of Harmony (Psalms 133:3)
| Psalms 133:3 | The chapter emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. The psalmist compares this harmony to the dew of Mount Hermon, which brings life and refreshment to the land. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 133?
The main theme of Psalms 133 is the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. As believers, we are called to strive for unity and harmony in our relationships with one another, just as Christ and the Father are one (Psalms 133:1-3).
How can we achieve unity and harmony in our relationships?
We can achieve unity and harmony in our relationships by prioritizing the importance of unity and harmony, and by taking practical steps to resolve conflicts and live in peace with one another (Psalms 133:1-3).
What is the promise of God to those who live in unity and harmony with one another?
The promise of God to those who live in unity and harmony with one another is that He will bless and prosper them, and that they will experience life and joy in their relationships with one another (Psalms 133:3).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 133:1 → John 17:21-23 | This verse highlights the importance of unity among believers, and how this reflects the character of God. In John 17:21-23, Jesus prays for the unity of His disciples, and for the world to know that He was sent by the Father. |
| 2 | Psalms 133:2 → Leviticus 21:10 | This verse describes the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, symbolizing the presence and blessing of God. In Leviticus 21:10, the anointing oil is described as a symbol of the priestly office, and the blessing of God on the priest. |
| 3 | Psalms 133:3 → Deuteronomy 33:2 | This verse describes the dew of Mount Hermon, which brings life and refreshment to the land. In Deuteronomy 33:2, the dew of Mount Hermon is described as a symbol of the blessing of God on the land, and the life and fertility that it brings. |
| 4 | Psalms 133:1-3 → Ephesians 4:3 | This passage emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. In Ephesians 4:3, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony in the body of Christ, and how this is a key aspect of our worship and praise. |
| 5 | Psalms 133:1-3 → Colossians 3:13 | This passage emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. In Colossians 3:13, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, just as Christ has forgiven us. |
| 6 | Psalms 133:1 → Matthew 5:9 | This verse highlights the importance of living in peace and unity with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus teaches that the peacemakers will be called the children of God, and that they will be blessed. |
| 7 | Psalms 133:2 → Exodus 30:22-33 | This verse describes the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, symbolizing the presence and blessing of God. In Exodus 30:22-33, the anointing oil is described as a symbol of the priestly office, and the blessing of God on the priest. |
| 8 | Psalms 133:3 → Isaiah 55:10-11 | This verse describes the dew of Mount Hermon, which brings life and refreshment to the land. In Isaiah 55:10-11, the dew is described as a symbol of the blessing of God on the land, and the life and fertility that it brings. |
| 9 | Psalms 133:1-3 → Romans 12:16 | This passage emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. In Romans 12:16, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one another, and of not being haughty, but of associating with the lowly. |
| 10 | Psalms 133:1-3 → Hebrews 13:1 | This passage emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. In Hebrews 13:1, the author emphasizes the importance of brotherly love, and of continuing to show hospitality to one another. |
Sermons on Psalms 133
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Getting Ready for the End of All Things by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of preparing for the end times by focusing on spiritual readiness rather than physical provisions. It highlights the need for forgiveness, lov |
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Unity That Brings Revival by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being absorbed in Christ and His Word. He believes that God cannot bless or bring revival to a church unless its members ar |
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A Guiding Voice in the Storm by Carter Conlon | The sermon titled 'A Guiding Voice in the Storm' based on Acts chapter 27 emphasizes the importance of seeking God's direction and being a guiding voice in the midst of societal st |
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(Europe 2008) Session 6 - the Revelation of God in Man by B.H. Clendennen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being dependent on Christ and having a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. He uses the example of Paul's life to |
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He Is Love by George Warnock | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Dunmighty who was told by God to set his house in order because all that he produced was wood, hay, and stubble. The sp |
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From Simon to Peter #27 - the Holy Spirit and Peter's Mind - Part 2 by J. Glyn Owen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture and how it is the product of the Holy Spirit. He highlights the significance of Peter's realizatio |
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04 Building Fellowship as Husband & Wife by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's order in earthly families as a foundation for building the church. It contrasts the focus on family in the New Testament with the lac |
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The Year That We Flourish by Carter Conlon | This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity, faith, purity, forgiveness, and selflessness in the church community. It calls for a commitment to flourishing in God's way, walking |
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Salvation Army Marches and Evangelism by William Booth | This sermon reflects on Salvationist meetings and the International Congress in London in 1904, showcasing the growth and expansion of the Army's activities over the years. It high |
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A Last Day Return to the Power by Carter Conlon | This sermon emphasizes the importance of returning to the power of unity, focusing on the need for believers to dwell together in unity based on God's Word. It highlights the bless |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 133
Matthew Henry's commentary on Psalms 133 emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony among believers, and how this reflects the character of God. He notes that the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head is a symbol of the presence and blessing of God, and that the dew of Mount Hermon is a symbol of the life and fertility that God brings to the land. Henry also emphasizes the importance of living in peace and unity with one another, and of not being haughty, but of associating with the lowly. He concludes by noting that the promise of God to those who live in unity and harmony with one another is that He will bless and prosper them, and that they will experience life and joy in their relationships with one another. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Unity
The chapter emphasizes the importance of living in unity and harmony with one another, and how this reflects the character of God. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should strive for in their relationships with one another.
The Beauty of Harmony
The chapter describes the beauty of harmony among believers, comparing it to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head, and the dew of Mount Hermon. This highlights the joy and delight that comes from living in harmony with one another.
The Promise of Blessing
The chapter concludes by emphasizing the promise of God to bless and prosper those who live in unity and harmony with one another. This is a key aspect of the Christian life, and it is something that believers should look forward to with hope and anticipation.