As David begins Psalm 15, he asks the great question: “LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?” We can imagine David asking this question of God, as he pears out over the throngs of people visiting Zion during a vast celebration. With the tabernacle of the holy city crowded with men all professing the same religion, presenting themselves to God with outward ceremony, David wonders: Who of this confusing medley of characters will abide with God in His tabernacle?
This great question is basically the same as asking, “Who can be saved?”
David proceeds to answer this question in verses 2-5 with a series of ten human actions that stem from the heart of his character: He walks uprightly; works righteousness; speaks the truth in his heart; does not backbite with his tongue; nor does evil to his neighbor; nor takes up a reproach against his friend; He despises the vile person; but honors those who fear the LORD; he swears to his own hurt and does not change; and does not lend his money with interest.
What is your reaction to this standard? Do you see it as a written code of ethical behavior which you must live by? Are you living by this standard? Is it possible for anyone to live up to the standard of Psalm 15? Who is the man who is described in Psalm 15?
