July 31, 2022

Ridgeline Study Prompts

Psalms 51

Prayer and Preparation

Psalm 51 is a masterfully captured example of how we as sinners deal with our sins. Spend a few minutes praying for a clear mind and a tender heart, then thoughtfully engage with this week’s text.

Study

To better understand the depth of David’s sin and the context of his confession, read 2 Samuel 11 and 12. Write out a summary of what happened in these two chapters.

Knowing the back-story to Psalm 51, how do you make sense of verse 4? (Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight.)

Verses 7-12 show David’s request to God for cleansing and restoration. Is there a line or two in these six verses that stands out and impacts your heart or mind? How or why?

In verse 13 the psalm shifts from personal to the communal nature of dealing with sin. Why is it important to deal with sin both privately as well as involving others in the confession and restoration?

Application
What can you learn and apply from this psalm on the confession of sin, and the cleansing, restoration and salvation found in the Gospel? What are appropriate actions or practices that you should implement in response to this psalm?