Bible Commentaries
Psalms 15

Verses 1-5

Psalms 15:1-5

LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? ( Psalms 15:1 )

The psalmist asks the question, "Who's going to dwell in the holy hill? Who's gonna dwell in the Lord's tabernacle?" And he answers the question. Thomas Jefferson says of this answer that it was the picture of the true gentleman. As David answers his own question, "Who shall abide in God's tabernacle and in His holy hill?"

He that walks uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaks the truth inner from his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honors them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changes not ( Psalms 15:2-4 ).

A lot of times a person will take an oath, but when they find out when they have made a mistake, they will change it. But a truly honorable person, if he said he will do it, he will do it, even if it costs him. He who swears to his own hurt. "Yes, I will do it." Then finds out, "Hey, it's going to cost me," but he goes ahead and does it anyhow. He doesn't change. A man of his word, something that God really looks up to.

He that puts not out his money for usury [charging an exorbitant interest], nor takes reward from the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved ( Psalms 15:5 ).

This is the man who will dwell in the Lord's tabernacle and in His holy hill. "