Psalm 15 is a Psalm that focuses on the characteristics of a righteous person and the blessings that come from living a life of integrity. Here are some discussion questions organized by sections of the Psalm to help people relate it to their own cultural setting:
Verses 1-2:
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In these verses, the psalmist asks who may dwell in God's sacred tent and live on his holy mountain. What attributes or qualities do you think are necessary for someone to dwell in God's presence in your cultural context?
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How can we cultivate a heart that speaks the truth, does what is right, and does not slander others in our own cultural context? What are some challenges we face in living a life of integrity?
Verses 3-5:
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The psalmist describes a person who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord. How do you define "vile" or wickedness in your cultural context? How can we discern between good and evil in our own lives?
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The Psalm mentions not lending money at interest or accepting bribes. How does corruption or dishonesty manifest in your cultural setting, and how can we resist these temptations? How can we promote justice and fairness?
Verses 5-6:
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In these verses, the psalmist speaks of those who do not change their stance against the innocent and do what they promise. How can we cultivate consistency and reliability in our relationships and commitments within our own cultural context?
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The Psalm ends by saying that the person who does these things will never be shaken. How can living a life of integrity bring stability and security in our cultural context? How can we encourage and support one another in remaining steadfast and immovable in our faith?
Overall Questions:
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How does this Psalm inspire you to live a life of integrity and righteousness? Are there any specific attributes mentioned in this Psalm that you would like to prioritize in your own life?
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In what ways can you apply the teachings and themes of this Psalm to your daily life and relationship with God, considering your own cultural context?
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How does this Psalm speak to the need for justice, fairness, and honesty in our relationships and societal systems? How can we work towards creating a just and righteous society in our own cultural setting?
Feel free to adapt these questions to your specific cultural context and add any additional questions that come to mind while discussing the Psalm. Remember, these questions are meant to stimulate deeper reflection and discussion on the themes and messages of the Psalm, so feel free to explore them further.