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The LORD Is My Shepherd
4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Another figure expresses God's provided care. a table--or, "food," anointing oil--the symbol of gladness, and the overflowing cup--which represents abundance--are prepared for the child of God, who may feast in spite of his enemies, confident that this favor will ever attend him. This beautiful Psalm most admirably sets before us, in its chief figure, that of a shepherd, the gentle, kind, and sure care extended to God's people, who, as a shepherd, both rules and feeds them. The closing verse shows that the blessings mentioned are spiritual. Next: Psalms Chapter 24
John Gill Bible Commentary
Thou preparest a table before me,.... In a providential way granting a sufficiency, and even an affluence of temporal good things; the providence of God lays and spreads a table for his people in the wilderness, and sets them down at it, and bids them welcome to it; see Psa 78:19; and in a way of grace, the Lord making large provisions in his house for them, called the goodness and fatness of his house, and a feast of fat things; and under the Gospel dispensation, the table of the Lord, on which are set his flesh and blood for faith to feed upon; see Pro 9:2; and also in heaven, the joys of which are compared to a feast, and the enjoyment of them to sitting at a table, and which are prepared by the Lord for his people, from the foundation of the world; and of which they have some foresight and foretaste in this world; see Luk 22:30; and all this in the presence of my enemies; they seeing and envying the outward prosperity of the saints, whenever they enjoy it, and their liberty of worshipping God, hearing his word, and attending on his ordinances, none making them afraid; as they will see, and envy, and be distressed at a more glorious state of the church yet to come, Rev 11:12; and even, as it should seem from the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the glory and happiness of the saints in the other world will be seen, or by some way or other known, by wicked men; which will be an affliction to them, and an aggravation of their misery; though here it seems chiefly to regard the present life. Some have thought there is an allusion to princes, who, having conquered others, eat and feast at a well spread table in the presence of the conquered, and they being under it; see Jdg 1:7; thou anointest my head with oil; giving him an abundance of good things, not only for necessity, but for pleasure and delight; especially pouring out largely upon him the oil of gladness, the Spirit of God and his graces, the anointing which teaches all things, and filling him with spiritual joy and comfort; for this refers not to the anointing of David with material oil for the kingdom, by Samuel, while Saul was living, or by the men of Judah, and afterwards by all the tribes of Israel, when Saul was dead. The allusion is to the custom of the eastern countries, at feasts, to anoint the heads of the guests with oil; see Ecc 9:7. It was usual to anoint the head, as well as other parts of the body, on certain occasions; hence that of Propertius (y): and in the times before Homer (z) it was usual both to wash and anoint before meals, and not the head only, but the feet also; which, though Pliny (a) represents as luxurious, was in use in Christ's time, Luk 7:38; and spoken of as an ancient custom by Aristophanes (b) his Scholiast for daughters to anoint the feet of their parents after they had washed them; which may serve to illustrate the passage in the Gospel; see Ecc 9:8; my cup runneth over; denoting an affluence of temporal good things, and especially of spiritual ones, which was David's case. Such who are blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ, to whom the grace of the Lord has been exceeding abundant, and the Lord himself is the portion of their cup, their cup may be said to run over indeed. (y) "Terque lavet nostras spica cilissa comas", l. 4. eleg. 6. v. 74. (z) Iliad. 10. v. 577, 578. Odyss. l. 3. v. 466. & l. 8. v. 454. & l. 10. v. 450. (a) Nat. Hist. l. 13. c. 3. (b) Vespes, p. 473, 516, 517.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:5 A feast demonstrates the Lord’s care and mercy toward his people (see 22:26, 29). Although enemies can watch, they cannot trouble the guests. • The ritual of anointing the head with oil showed guests honor (92:9-11), hospitality, and refreshment (104:15; 133:2).
The LORD Is My Shepherd
4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Slowness of Heart" Part 1
By Joshua Daniel2.8K27:24PSA 23:5LUK 24:25LUK 24:321CO 15:3PHP 3:8This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of believing in the resurrection of Christ and the impact it should have on our lives. It highlights the need to let go of old ways, idols, and pride, and embrace a new life of love, faith, and sacrifice through Jesus. The message urges listeners to have faith in God's promises, to seek His transformation, and to be willing to let go of worldly desires for a life aligned with Christ.
Learning the Fear of God (Telugu)
By Zac Poonen2.7K48:501SA 21:13JOB 1:1JOB 31:1PSA 16:8PSA 23:5PSA 34:11ACT 10:382TI 2:19JAS 3:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of fearing God and turning away from sin, drawing insights from the book of Job as the first book written by God in the Bible. It highlights the significance of immediately confessing sin, being sensitive to evil, and seeking the anointing of the Holy Spirit to do good, deliver the oppressed, and have God with us always.
Pay Attention When God Speaks
By Chuck Smith2.4K35:15Voice Of GodDEU 28:1PSA 23:5PSA 115:1MAT 6:33HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses how the plots of movies often involve sinful behaviors such as murder, deceit, fornication, and adultery. He argues that society's acceptance of these behaviors is evidence of the truth of God's word. The preacher references the story of Solomon, who multiplied wives and turned away from the Lord, as an example of the consequences of forsaking God's word. He encourages the audience to lay aside sin and run the race of faith, seeking a right relationship with God. The sermon concludes with a reminder that true fulfillment cannot be found in worldly pursuits, but only in walking with God.
Killing Lazarus
By Carter Conlon2.2K52:04LazarusPSA 23:5MAT 5:11JHN 15:20ROM 12:21PE 4:121PE 4:19In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of facing opposition and persecution for his faith in Christ. Despite being placed in a remote department at work, he was able to lead several policemen to Christ through his vocal Christian testimony. The speaker emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the face of reproach and not allowing shame to be placed on believers. He also highlights the message of Lazarus, which is that Jesus gives life and offers hope to honest seekers who are looking for true satisfaction and reality in their lives.
The Table and the Cross
By Carter Conlon1.8K1:04:22Cross of ChristPSA 23:5ISA 55:8MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God that comes upon believers. He describes how when people are touched by God, they speak a vision of their future that only God has given them. The preacher highlights that when others see this transformation, they are moved in their hearts. He also mentions that the religious crowd may be stunned by a church that fully embraces the power of God. The sermon concludes with a reminder to ask God for the Holy Spirit, as He is willing to give it to those who ask.
The Amazing Grace of God
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:08:57PSA 23:5MAT 6:14LUK 18:35ROM 6:14EPH 1:7This sermon emphasizes the multifaceted nature of God's amazing grace. It highlights the power of grace to bring forgiveness of sins, deliverance from the power of sin, and the ability to face and overcome various challenges in life. The message encourages listeners to forgive others, trust in God's grace for victory over sin, and rely on His sufficiency to navigate through difficult circumstances.
Remembering at the Table
By Stephen Kaung1.2K12:28Table Of The LordPSA 23:5HEB 10:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering and celebrating the finished work of Jesus Christ. They express gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice, acknowledging that He died for us and His blood was shed for our sins. The speaker also highlights Jesus' exaltation by the Father, stating that He has been given a name above every name. They encourage the congregation to confess Jesus as Lord and look forward to His return when His enemies will be defeated. The sermon concludes with a reminder that by partaking in communion, believers are communing with the body and blood of Christ, receiving strength to overcome and a blessed hope for the future.
Prickly Problems of This Existence
By Vance Havner1.0K29:45ProblemsGEN 3:18NUM 33:55PSA 23:5ISA 55:10MAT 13:7ROM 8:182CO 12:7The sermon transcript discusses the current state of some churches, describing them as "25 miles wide, one-inch deep." The speaker shares personal experiences of preaching at the First Baptist Church of Charleston and interacting with military personnel. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding God's original purpose, present purpose, and future purpose, as outlined in Romans 8:28. The speaker also highlights the need for believers to persevere through challenges and reminds them of the ultimate redemption and manifestation of the sons of God.
Romans 6:16
By Manley Beasley94848:40Passage StudiesPSA 23:5MAT 6:33ROM 6:16ROM 6:23ROM 8:131CO 6:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obeying the truth and doctrine of God from the heart. He explains that when a lost person is confronted with their sinfulness and the salvation offered by Jesus, they must make a decision about what to do with Jesus. The preacher also highlights the need to learn and understand God's ways in order to walk with Him. He shares an illustration about two men in a church who are convicted of their sinful habits and discusses the importance of addressing and repenting from these habits.
(Apostolic Vision) the Healing Community
By Dale Heisey74200:00PSA 23:5ISA 58:12MAT 10:7MAT 18:15LUK 4:18EPH 4:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the process of restoring someone who has fallen into sin within the church community. He shares a specific example of a young man who engaged in improper conduct with a 15-year-old girl who was working for him. The young man eventually confesses his actions to the speaker. The speaker emphasizes the importance of addressing such matters within the church and involving the community in the restoration process. He also highlights the role of wise individuals within the church who can judge and help restore those who have fallen. The sermon concludes with a powerful story of a father expressing his remorse for not being a better role model for his son.
Elijah and Elisha 07 ~ Keswick Conference 1970
By Harold Wildish72853:11Keswick2KI 4:38PSA 23:5MAT 28:19ACT 1:81CO 10:31EPH 5:152TI 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story from the book of 2 Kings, chapter 4, where there is a problem with the food being prepared. The preacher emphasizes the importance of both the quality and quantity of the food that God's children need. He highlights the need for Christ to be the essential component in our spiritual food supply. The preacher also mentions the simplicity of the secret to victory in the Christian life, which includes reading the Bible before breakfast as a way to feed our souls.
The Reality of the Resurrection
By Joshua Daniel53440:33PSA 23:5LUK 24:25JHN 12:24ROM 6:61CO 15:36EPH 4:22PHP 2:7COL 3:1JAS 4:101PE 5:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself, dying to the old nature, and embracing the resurrection life in Christ. It highlights the need to let go of pride, idols, and vanities, and to seek a transformed life through humility and sacrifice, drawing parallels to the resurrection of Jesus and the change it brings. The speaker urges listeners to embrace the risen life in Christ, which brings hope, fruitfulness, and a positive impact on others.
The Ministry of the Church
By R. Edward Miller4141:10:34Church2KI 4:10PSA 23:5PRO 25:9EZK 44:7EZK 44:9MAT 6:19ACT 13:2In this sermon, the pastor shares a story about a new pastor who constantly hears comparisons to the previous pastor's sermons and services. One day, the new pastor visits a young widow and her daughter, and the little girl mentions that the previous pastor used to kiss her mother too. The pastor then discusses the importance of coming near to God's table and keeping His charge. He emphasizes the need for a commission and order from God in order to be effective in ministry. The sermon concludes with a story about a woman who had a powerful encounter with God and became a worshiper of the Lamb.
The Ascended Life
By Brian Guerin41:11:08Ascended LifeIntimacy With GodPSA 23:5ISA 60:1Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of living an ascended life in Christ, where believers are called to focus on the presence of God, symbolized as the bread and wine that satisfies all needs. He encourages the congregation to see themselves seated at God's table, even in the presence of their enemies, and to embrace the joy and healing that comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Guerin highlights the importance of being filled with God's glory, which shines brightly in a world filled with darkness, and calls for a return to first love and intimacy with God.
Rev. 3:7. the Key of David
By Horatius Bonar2Christ's AuthorityAccess to God's BlessingsPSA 23:5ISA 22:22MAT 7:7MAT 28:18JHN 10:9JHN 14:62CO 1:20HEB 4:16REV 3:7REV 3:20Horatius Bonar emphasizes the significance of Christ as the Holy One, the True One, and the possessor of the Key of David in his sermon. He explains that Christ's holiness and truth are foundational to His character, and that He holds the keys to various aspects of life, including the house, castle, city, treasure-house, and banqueting-house of David. Bonar encourages believers to approach Christ for access to these blessings, reminding them that He opens doors that no one can shut and closes doors that no one can open. The sermon serves as a source of comfort and motivation for ministers, churches, and individuals, affirming that Christ's power and grace are always at work. Bonar concludes with a call to respond to Christ's invitation to enter into His presence and blessings.
If I Might but Get the Broken Crumbs!
By C.H. Spurgeon2Abundance in ChristGod's Grace2SA 9:7PSA 23:5PSA 36:8ISA 55:1MAT 15:27JHN 6:35ROM 8:32EPH 3:20PHP 4:191PE 2:9C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the lavishness of God's grace, comparing it to the royal feast of Solomon that amazed the Queen of Sheba. He illustrates that while the multitude at God's table is vast, each individual is fully satisfied and receives an abundance that far exceeds their needs. Spurgeon reassures that no believer is served mere scraps; instead, they partake in the richness of God's grace, akin to being seated at the King's table. He highlights that God's provision is not just for a day but spans generations, ensuring that every saint is nourished and fulfilled. Ultimately, the sermon celebrates the overflowing grace and love that God offers to all who seek Him.
Numbers 13:26
By Chuck Smith0Spiritual JourneyFaith vs. FearGEN 12:7EXO 3:8NUM 13:30PSA 23:5JHN 10:10ROM 8:371CO 10:132CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 4:1Chuck Smith discusses the significance of Canaan as the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, emphasizing that it represents liberty, rest, and abundance for believers. He contrasts the legitimate wilderness experience, which teaches trust in God, with the illegitimate wilderness experience marked by rebellion and discontent. The sermon highlights the crisis at Kadesh Barnea, where the majority of spies reported fear and doubt, while the faithful two saw God's promise as attainable. Smith encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the choices they make in faith.
March 15. 1678. the Ransom Out of the Sanctuary.
By Jane Lead0PSA 16:5PSA 23:5PSA 27:4PSA 91:12CO 10:4EPH 1:11Jane Lead preaches about the importance of a holy separated walking with God, despite the interruptions and distractions of worldly needs. She emphasizes the need to spread the hands of faith to reach the sanctuary treasury for redemption from servitude and to live upon God's table in sufficiency. Lead encourages seeking out the eternal inheritance that belongs to believers, allowing them to be delivered from cares and necessities that burden the common world. She highlights the spiritual weapons available in the sanctuary to defend against worldly spirits and invites believers to tabernacle with God's battle-ax forever.
Are You a Regular at the Lord's Table?
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual RevelationCommunion with ChristPSA 23:5LUK 22:29David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of communion at the Lord's table, highlighting that it is a place of intimacy where believers receive food, strength, wisdom, and fellowship from Christ. He points out that many Christians have a limited understanding of the grandeur of this calling and often seek material blessings instead of a deeper revelation of Jesus. Wilkerson encourages believers to pursue an ever-increasing knowledge of Christ, as exemplified by Paul, who sought to understand the 'unsearchable riches of Christ' through the Holy Spirit. He reminds us that God has prepared a royal table for us, inviting us to partake in the bread of life and experience His glory. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to deeper communion with Christ.
(The Full Gospel) 8. Faith, Brokenness and Victory
By Zac Poonen02CH 20:12PSA 23:5PSA 139:16JER 17:5ROM 9:33ROM 16:20EPH 6:12EPH 6:18JAS 1:5Zac Poonen preaches on the spiritual warfare believers face against evil forces, emphasizing the need to be wholehearted and on fire for the Lord to effectively fight against the enemy. He highlights the importance of prayer, especially for those faithfully preaching God's Word, as they are prime targets of the enemy's attacks. Using the example of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20, Zac Poonen teaches on the power of seeking God in prayer, acknowledging our weakness, and trusting God to fight our battles. He categorizes believers into three groups based on their confidence in themselves and in God, stressing the necessity of having total confidence in God to do eternal work for Him.
(Sex, Love & Marriage) 9. the Highway of Happiness
By Zac Poonen0GEN 12:2GEN 22:18PSA 23:5PRO 5:11ECC 10:8ISA 35:8JHN 2:1ACT 20:35GAL 3:14GAL 6:71JN 3:5Zac Poonen preaches about the importance of choosing to walk on God's Highway of Happiness in the realms of sex, love, and marriage, emphasizing the need for obedience to God and respect for His boundaries. He warns against the consequences of breaking through God's fences, using the example of Eve being deceived by the Devil in the garden of Eden. Poonen highlights the significance of inviting Jesus into marriages, allowing Him to solve problems and meet needs, as seen in the wedding at Cana where Jesus manifested His glory. He encourages couples to obey God's commands, transforming the ordinary aspects of married life into something precious and valuable.
Liii. to James Bautie, Theological Student
By Samuel Rutherford0PSA 23:5ISA 42:3JHN 3:82CO 9:71JN 4:19Samuel Rutherford preaches about the New Covenant, emphasizing that Christ accepts sincere offerings according to one's means, not demanding perfection but valuing authenticity and sincerity. He encourages believers not to be discouraged by their imperfections, as Christ is patient and understanding, gradually working in their hearts. Rutherford reminds that true love for God can coexist with gratitude for His blessings, urging believers to seek comfort in prayer even in the presence of known idols, as genuine comfort and conviction can align in the Christian journey.
The Qualities of a Successful Ministry
By Daniel Steele0PSA 23:5PSA 51:10JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ACT 11:24ROM 8:161CO 2:4EPH 5:181TH 1:51JN 2:27Daniel Steele preaches on the importance of the fullness of the Holy Spirit in the ministry, emphasizing the need for character, creed, and experience. He highlights Barnabas as an example of a successful evangelist, attributing his effectiveness to being a good man, full of faith, and of the Holy Ghost. Steele stresses the essential role of character in the Christian ministry, stating that purity of character is indispensable for success. He also underscores the significance of benevolent affections and transparent generosity in ministry, pointing out that a kind heart is crucial in winning souls to Christ.
Feasting in the Presence of Your Enemy!
By David Wilkerson0God's ProvisionOvercoming AdversityPSA 23:5PSA 27:6PSA 34:10ISA 54:17LUK 12:37JHN 10:10ROM 8:31PHP 4:192TI 1:71JN 4:4David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound promise found in Psalm 23:5, where God prepares a feast for His children in the presence of their enemies. This imagery illustrates God's abundant provision and care, showcasing His love, mercy, and grace as He serves each individual at the table while their adversaries look on helplessly. The sermon reassures believers that they can find peace and joy in God's presence, regardless of the challenges they face, as He whispers comfort and assurance amidst their struggles. Wilkerson encourages the faithful to rejoice and sing praises, knowing that God lifts them above their enemies.
The Cellars of Affliction
By John Henry Jowett0PSA 23:5PSA 34:19PSA 42:8ROM 8:37PHP 4:7John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of finding spiritual deliverance and strength in the midst of afflictions by seeking the promises of God and experiencing His vitalizing grace. He highlights the concept of rising above afflictions by being spiritually exhilarated, enabling believers to be 'more than conquerors' in Christ Jesus even in the midst of challenges. Jowett points out that true deliverance is not necessarily being removed from affliction, but rather having the peace, strength, and hope that come from a deep relationship with God, allowing believers to sing songs of praise even in the darkest times.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Another figure expresses God's provided care. a table--or, "food," anointing oil--the symbol of gladness, and the overflowing cup--which represents abundance--are prepared for the child of God, who may feast in spite of his enemies, confident that this favor will ever attend him. This beautiful Psalm most admirably sets before us, in its chief figure, that of a shepherd, the gentle, kind, and sure care extended to God's people, who, as a shepherd, both rules and feeds them. The closing verse shows that the blessings mentioned are spiritual. Next: Psalms Chapter 24
John Gill Bible Commentary
Thou preparest a table before me,.... In a providential way granting a sufficiency, and even an affluence of temporal good things; the providence of God lays and spreads a table for his people in the wilderness, and sets them down at it, and bids them welcome to it; see Psa 78:19; and in a way of grace, the Lord making large provisions in his house for them, called the goodness and fatness of his house, and a feast of fat things; and under the Gospel dispensation, the table of the Lord, on which are set his flesh and blood for faith to feed upon; see Pro 9:2; and also in heaven, the joys of which are compared to a feast, and the enjoyment of them to sitting at a table, and which are prepared by the Lord for his people, from the foundation of the world; and of which they have some foresight and foretaste in this world; see Luk 22:30; and all this in the presence of my enemies; they seeing and envying the outward prosperity of the saints, whenever they enjoy it, and their liberty of worshipping God, hearing his word, and attending on his ordinances, none making them afraid; as they will see, and envy, and be distressed at a more glorious state of the church yet to come, Rev 11:12; and even, as it should seem from the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the glory and happiness of the saints in the other world will be seen, or by some way or other known, by wicked men; which will be an affliction to them, and an aggravation of their misery; though here it seems chiefly to regard the present life. Some have thought there is an allusion to princes, who, having conquered others, eat and feast at a well spread table in the presence of the conquered, and they being under it; see Jdg 1:7; thou anointest my head with oil; giving him an abundance of good things, not only for necessity, but for pleasure and delight; especially pouring out largely upon him the oil of gladness, the Spirit of God and his graces, the anointing which teaches all things, and filling him with spiritual joy and comfort; for this refers not to the anointing of David with material oil for the kingdom, by Samuel, while Saul was living, or by the men of Judah, and afterwards by all the tribes of Israel, when Saul was dead. The allusion is to the custom of the eastern countries, at feasts, to anoint the heads of the guests with oil; see Ecc 9:7. It was usual to anoint the head, as well as other parts of the body, on certain occasions; hence that of Propertius (y): and in the times before Homer (z) it was usual both to wash and anoint before meals, and not the head only, but the feet also; which, though Pliny (a) represents as luxurious, was in use in Christ's time, Luk 7:38; and spoken of as an ancient custom by Aristophanes (b) his Scholiast for daughters to anoint the feet of their parents after they had washed them; which may serve to illustrate the passage in the Gospel; see Ecc 9:8; my cup runneth over; denoting an affluence of temporal good things, and especially of spiritual ones, which was David's case. Such who are blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ, to whom the grace of the Lord has been exceeding abundant, and the Lord himself is the portion of their cup, their cup may be said to run over indeed. (y) "Terque lavet nostras spica cilissa comas", l. 4. eleg. 6. v. 74. (z) Iliad. 10. v. 577, 578. Odyss. l. 3. v. 466. & l. 8. v. 454. & l. 10. v. 450. (a) Nat. Hist. l. 13. c. 3. (b) Vespes, p. 473, 516, 517.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:5 A feast demonstrates the Lord’s care and mercy toward his people (see 22:26, 29). Although enemies can watch, they cannot trouble the guests. • The ritual of anointing the head with oil showed guests honor (92:9-11), hospitality, and refreshment (104:15; 133:2).