To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
In the ancient world, including Israel, a shepherd was a common metaphor for kings. David, the shepherd-king, was uniquely qualified to compose Psalm 23.
Read Psalm 23:1-3: The Lord is my shepherd. I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
- What blessing or benefit is communicated through the theme of this metaphor?
Many answers might be given, including provision, guidance, and renewal. Perhaps an overarching theme is the blessing or benefit of security in the Lord.
Read Psalm 23:4: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
- What blessing or benefit is communicated through the theme of this metaphor?
The theme here seems to be the blessing or benefit of the Lord’s protection and peace in perilous circumstances.
Read Psalm 23:5: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
- What blessing or benefit is communicated through the theme of this metaphor?
The Standard Lesson Commentary points out that the last two verses of the psalm seem to switch from the metaphor of shepherd to the metaphor of host. The theme here seems to be the blessing or benefit of being an honored guest at the Lord’s banquet table.
Read Psalm 23:6: Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
- What blessing or benefit is communicated through the theme of this metaphor?
The theme here seems to be the blessing or benefit of David’s confidence in the Lord’s love—and consequently David’s confidence in his own future.
To encourage personal application:
- What verse, metaphor, or theme of Psalm 23 has been meaningful or important to you in the past—and why?
- What verse, metaphor, or theme of Psalm 23 do you need to experience or cling to now—and why?
- How can others in the group lift you up in prayer to the Lord, our Shepherd-King, in this regard?
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