Psalm 45: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 45 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist begins with an overflowing heart, reciting verses for the king and likening his tongue to the pen of a skillful writer (vv. 1-2). The king is proclaimed as the most excellent of the sons of men, with an anointing of grace on his lips.

Key verse

“You are the most excellent of the sons of men. Grace has anointed your lips, therefore God has blessed you forever.”
Psalms 45:2 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 45:1–2 Introduction of the Noble Theme
Psalm 45:3–5 The King’s Majesty and Might
Psalm 45:6–8 God’s Eternal Throne and Anointing
Psalm 45:9–12 The Bride’s Beauty and Worth
Psalm 45:13–15 A Joyous Wedding Procession
Psalm 45:16–17 Legacy and Everlasting Praise

Discussion questions

In v2, what quality is said to have 'anointed your lips'?
What does the imagery of 'myrrh, aloes, and cassia' in v8 indicate about the king?
In v10, why is the daughter called to 'forget your own people'?
In v7, what does it mean that the king has 'loved righteousness, and hated wickedness'?
When have you found yourself in a situation like the call in v11 to 'honor him'?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 45: Hebrews 1, Isaiah 61, John 1.

Before next time: read Psalm 46.