Who Can Dwell With God?

Who Can Dwell With God?

Psalm 15:1-5

Earlier this week, a man named Stephen Rogata REALLY wanted to speak with Donald Trump. He was so intent on speaking with the business mogul that he spent three hours climbing the glass facade of Trump Tower. It became very clear that Rogatta was not welcome at the Trump residence when he was snatched through a window by the police, arrested and charged with a felony. This young man was reported to be a "Trump supporter" and simply wanted an audience with the GOP presidential nominee.

I must admit that trump is nowhere near the top of the list of people that I would like to meet.... in fact, he is not even on the list. But this event made me think about the amazing privilege that we have as Christians. Because of Christ's work at Calvary we have been granted access to the Father. (After enduring the agony of the Cross) Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. - Mark 15:37 ----- The veil which separated the holy place from the holy of holies was torn from top to bottom. Up until this point only the High Priest was privileged to enter into this place. The veil being torn symbolized the fact that now all may have access to the throne of Grace

There is no way to accurately articulate the awesome privilege that we have to be able to approach a Holy God. Here in Psalm 15, David asks a very important two part question concerning who may approach God. He asks "Who may abide in your sanctuary, Lord?" and "Who may dwell in your presence on your holy hill?"

David's question speaks of a temporary situation and an eternal one. To "abide" is temporary, to "dwell" is permanent. Those who are saved are currently "abiding" in Christ... But we will "dwell" with Him throughout all of eternity! These are some encouraging truths, but there is more to "abiding in Christ" than simply being delivered from your sins . It is essential that as Children of the most High God, we do our part to "abide" in a right relationship with Him.

- I would like to walk through this Psalm and see the answer to David's question "Who Can Dwell With God?" --- There is no better place to start that the very beginning, so let's look to verse 1.

I. Who Can Dwell With God: The Question - v1 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?

Though David possessed a great privilege in being God's chosen King of Israel, it seems that he was somewhat envious of the Priests. With all of his power and authority, he was not permitted to enter into the Holy Place. This privilege was reserved for the High Priest. David's question illustrates the desire of his heart. Many people today have another desire, multitudes of people are on a quest. People from all walks of life are searching for answers. They are looking for direction. They are longing for peace and security concerning their eternal destination. Some hope to "live good enough" to make it to Heaven. They are trusting in their morality and good works to get them there. Some are trusting religion, rituals and ceremonies to secure their eternal life.

Maybe you are one who is searching for answers. I can assure you the answer is not religion, works or morality. But there is an answer to your question, and it is found in the answer to David's question. Look with me to verse 2:

II. Who Can Dwell With God: The Answer - v2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.

David's question was essentially "who has access to God"? Christians are privileged to have access to God! But not everyone has this access. Those who have never been saved may acknowledge God, they may believe in God, they may fear God (to a point) and they may pray to God. But they do not have access to God unless they are "in Christ".

My friend if you seek to attain comfort, blessings and Protection from God you must be saved! If you pray to the Father without surrendering to the Son, you are wasting your time. It is only through Jesus that we are adopted into the family of God. Because of this, we are now sons of God and joint heirs with Christ. If you have never surrendered to Christ you cannot claim the benefits of spiritual adoption.

I know without a doubt that if I ever need anything I can go to my earthly and ask him for help. Without fail, if the request is within his power and ability he will do all that he can to help me. If you go and ask him for help he may or may not be able to meet your need. But I have full confidence that I can claim certain privileges because I am his son.