Psalm 24
The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, for He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.
Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD? And who shall stand in His holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully. He will receive blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation. Such is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah
Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle!
Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory! Selah (ESV)
Introduction:
Advent and the Question of Readiness
1. The Authority of the Coming King (vv. 1,2)
1.1 The King Owns All He Comes to Save
1.2 Creation Establishes Christ’s Rightful Rule
Advent Reflection
Before asking what Christ can do for us, Advent asks:
• Do we acknowledge His rightful rule?
• Do we submit to His authority?
• Are we ready to receive Him as King, not merely as Comforter?
2. The Preparation Required to Meet the King (vv. 3-6)
2.1 The Question That Exposes Every Heart
2.2 God’s Standard: Clean Hands and a Pure Heart
2.3 The Blessing Promised, but Not Earned
3. The Triumphant Entrance of the King of Glory (vv. 7-10)
3.1 The Call to Open Wide
3.2 The Question Repeated and Answered
3.3 The King Who Enters in Victory
Application:
Advent Preparation for the King
Psalm 24 teaches us that Advent is:
• About authority – He is King
• About holiness – We are not ready on our own
• About grace – Righteousness is received
• About welcome – The King comes to dwell with His people
So, we ask:
• Have we lifted the gates of our hearts?
• Have we turned from idols and deceit?
• Have we received the righteousness Christ provides?
Conclusion
The King of glory has drawn near.• Prepare the way
• Cleanse the heart
• Lift the gates
• Receive the King