Psalms 24:4
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He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
This psalm is concerning the kingdom of Jesus Christ, I. His providential kingdom, by which he rules the world (Psa 24:1, Psa 24:2). II. The kingdom of his grace, by which he rules in his church. 1. Concerning the subjects of that kingdom; their character (Psa 24:4, Psa 24:6), their charter (Psa 24:5). 2. Concerning the King of that kingdom; and a summons to all to give him admission (Psa 24:7-10). It is supposed that the psalm was penned upon occasion of David's bringing up the ark to the place prepared for it, and that the intention of it was to lead the people above the pomp of external ceremonies to a holy life and faith in Christ, of whom the ark was a type. A psalm of David.
Open source ↗24:4 Those with pure hands have not shed blood or injured relationships between people (see 9:12; 15:2-5). • Those with pure hearts commit themselves fully to the Lord, as evidenced in strength of character, transparency, and selflessness (51:10; 73:1; see Matt 5:8).
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
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Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Yet a righteous one holds to his way, and the one with clean hands grows stronger.
Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.
Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
I wash my hands in innocence that I may go about Your altar, O LORD,
Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or dissension.
He made no distinction between us and them, for He cleansed their hearts by faith.
Let me hear Your loving devotion in the morning, for I have put my trust in You. Teach me the way I should walk, for to You I lift up my soul.