Psalm 15:2–5 paints the portrait of a worshiper fit to dwell with God: one who walks blamelessly, speaks truth, honors the godly, and shuns evil. These traits—blamelessness, integrity, justice—set a towering standard for abiding on God’s holy mountain. Yet, Psalm 14:3 shatters any illusion: “None do good, not one.” Sin’s stain bars every human heart from God’s presence. The sermon on Psalm 15 reveals our desperate need: no one can meet God’s righteous demands. Our efforts falter; idols creep into our hearts; we fall short daily (Romans 7:18–19). Even the high priest, entering the Holy of Holies, risked death if impure (Leviticus 16:2). If perfection is required, who can stand?

Enter Jesus Christ, the true righteous one. He alone fulfills Psalm 15’s demands, living sinlessly, dying sacrificially, and rising victoriously. Through faith, His righteousness is imputed to believers, cloaking them in His perfection (1 Corinthians 1:30). This is justification: God declares sinners righteous, not by their works, but by Christ’s (Romans 3:24). “He who does these things shall never be moved” (Psalm 15:5) applies to those in Christ, assured of God’s presence forever. This isn’t mere acquittal; it transforms. Clothed in Christ, believers begin to live righteously, empowered by the Spirit (James 1:22). Yet, our hope rests not in progress but in Christ’s finished work. The sermon warns against ritualistic faith—attending church without heart-longing for God. Instead, flee to Christ, trusting His righteousness for unshakable communion with God.

Reflect and Pray

Spurn empty rituals; cling to Christ’s imputed righteousness. Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:30, marveling that Jesus is your righteousness. Pray for a heart yearning for God’s presence, trusting Christ alone for eternal hope.

This article was inspired by the sermon, Who Dwells on God’s Mountain?, from May 18, 2025.