Psalm 51: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 51 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist asks God for mercy and cleansing, appealing to His loving kindness and tender mercies (vv. 1-2). He acknowledges his transgressions, admitting that his sin is ever before him (vv. 3-5). The psalmist expresses a deep desire for purity and joy, requesting to be washed clean and renewed (vv. 6-8). He prays for renewal, asking God not to cast him away and to restore the joy of salvation (vv. 9-12). He commits to teaching others about God’s ways and declares his intention to praise God (vv. 13-15). The psalmist clarifies that true sacrifice is a broken spirit and a contrite heart, which God does not despise (vv. 16-17). Finally, he prays for God to act favorably towards Zion and to accept the offerings of righteousness (vv. 18-19).

Key verse

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me.”
Psalms 51:10 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 51:1–2 A Plea for Mercy and Cleansing
Psalm 51:3–5 Recognition of Sin and Guilt
Psalm 51:6–8 Desire for Purity and Joy
Psalm 51:9–12 Prayer for Renewal and Restoration
Psalm 51:13–15 Commitment to Teach and Praise
Psalm 51:16–17 True Sacrifice and Contrition
Psalm 51:18–19 Restoration of Zion and Offerings

Discussion questions

In v3, what does David mean by saying, 'My sin is constantly before me'?
What does David ask God to create in him in v10?
David's plea for 'a broken and contrite heart' in v17: why does he emphasize this over sacrifices?
In v14, David refers to 'the guilt of bloodshed': how does this connect to his request for deliverance?
When have you sought 'joy and gladness' after feeling broken or guilty, as David expresses in v8?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 51: 2 Corinthians 5, 1 Samuel 15, Matthew 5.

Before next time: read Psalm 52.