11.4 Safety and Peace of Zion
Peace and Security amid the Storms: God’s Assurance for Zion

Read Psalm 46:2–8. How is the world depicted poetically here?

The poetic depiction of the world in Psalm 46:2–8 portrays a world in turmoil, marked by natural disasters and the raging of warring nations. It is a world characterized by godlessness and rebellion, where people and nations go their own ways and pursue their own plans without regard for God’s wisdom and sovereignty.

Despite the turbulence and chaos in the world, however, God’s presence among His people is also emphasized. Zion, symbolizing God’s community, is depicted as a place of peace and security where God Himself dwells and holds His protective hand over His people. This notion conveys the hope that even amidst the storms of life and world problems, God’s presence and protection are an unwavering source of peace and security for the faithful.

The question of whether God will forever leave the world to its destructive decisions remains open in Psalm 46. Nevertheless, by emphasizing God’s presence and His power over nature and nations, confidence is expressed that ultimately, God will bring dominion and peace, even if the world temporarily descends into chaos.

In our daily lives and faith, we can draw assurance from this Psalm that despite the challenges and uncertainties we face, God is always with us, offering security and peace amidst the storm. Our calling is to place our trust in God and stand firm on His promise of lasting peace and eternal security granted to His people.

Read Psalm 46:7–12. What is God’s response to violence and destruction in the world?

Psalm 46:7–12 vividly depicts God’s response to violence and destruction in the world. God reacts to the attacks and turmoil in the world with His fierce wrath, so powerful that His word shakes the earth and melts the foundations of nations. This portrayal demonstrates God’s power and authority over all creation and emphasizes His ability to thwart the rule of the wicked and restore order.

However, God’s response to violence and destruction is not merely destruction but also renewal. His aim is to bring about peace and establish justice on earth. God extends His peace from Zion, the symbol of His presence and rule, to the ends of the earth. He ends wars and destroys the instruments of destruction with which the evil nations have oppressed the world.

The hope of Christians lies in the fulfillment of this promise of God at the return of Jesus Christ. On that day, God will establish His reign on earth and peace and justice will reign forever. This promise gives believers comfort and confidence, even amidst the turbulence and chaos of this world, knowing that God ultimately triumphs and all things will lead to good.

In a world actually in turmoil, we can learn to have peace and trust in God by following these steps:

1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty: We can learn that God is above all and His rule over the world is unwavering. By realizing that God is in control, we can find peace amidst uncertainties.

2. Prayer and Meditation: Through regular prayer and meditation on God’s Word, we can deepen our relationship with Him and experience His peace in our hearts. Dwelling in God’s presence allows us to cast our worries and fears upon Him and receive His promise of care and protection.

3. Fellowship with other believers: Fellowship with other believers can be a source of comfort and encouragement. By supporting and strengthening each other, we can learn to strengthen our faith and focus on God, even in difficult times.

4. Practicing gratitude: By focusing on the blessings we have already received from God and being grateful for His faithfulness and goodness, we can shift our focus away from the world’s problems and find peace in our hearts.

5. Acting in faith: Instead of being led by fear and worry, we can act in faith and do what we know God requires of us. This may mean serving others, standing up for justice, or proclaiming the gospel, while trusting that God will bless our efforts and fulfill His purpose.

6. Preserving hope: Despite the world’s turbulence, we can place our hope in God and trust that He will fulfill His promises. By clinging to God’s promises and remembering that His plans for us are good, we can maintain peace and confidence amidst the storms of life.

By practicing these steps and strengthening our faith in God, we can learn to have peace and trust in God in a world of turmoil.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-longing-for-god-in-zion-11-4-safety-and-peace-of-zion/

11.3 Zion – the Home of All Nations
Zion: A Place of Unity and Salvation for All Nations

Read Psalm 87:1–2. What makes Zion such a highly esteemed place?

Zion, as the place specially chosen and loved by God, is described in these verses as a place of great significance and dignity. Here are some reasons why Zion is highly esteemed:

1. Presence of God: Zion is considered a place of God’s presence as its foundation lies on holy mountains. This portrayal gives Zion a special sanctity and importance.

2. Sovereign Rule of God: The psalm indicates that Zion will be exalted above all the hills, symbolizing God’s sovereign rule over the whole world. This demonstrates the majestic and sublime nature of Zion.

3. God’s Love for Zion: The psalm emphasizes that the LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. This illustrates God’s special affection for this place and His preference for the worship that takes place there.

4. Zion as the Center of True Worship: Zion is regarded as a place of true worship of God, where the prescribed way of worship by God occurs. In contrast to other places in Israel that were also important assembly sites, Zion is highlighted as the preferred place for worshiping God.

Overall, the special presence of God, sovereign rule, God’s love, and the significance as the center of true worship make Zion an extremely esteemed place.

Read Psalm 87:3–7. What glorious things are said about Zion?

These verses mention several glorious things about Zion:

1. Conversations about Zion: Zion, the city of God, is regarded by all nations as a place of glory and honor. It is said that even mighty nations like Rahab, Babylon, Philistia, and Tyre know Zion and speak of its glory.

2. Unity of Nations: Zion is referred to as the birthplace for various nations, indicating that all peoples find a new identity in Zion and are established by the Most High Himself. This points to the unity and universal significance of Zion.

3. Joyful Celebrations in Zion: Zion is described as a place where dancers and singers will be. It is said that all sources of life can be found in Zion, indicating the abundance and prosperity in this city.

4. Zion’s Exclusivity: The leaders of Israel will say that there are no gods outside of Zion and none comparable to it. This emphasizes the unique position of Zion as the city of God and the center of worship and adoration.

Overall, these verses emphasize the glory, unity of nations, joy and prosperity, and the exclusivity of Zion as the city of God.

How does Zion’s willingness to embrace all people find its fulfillment in the Church’s mission command to proclaim the Gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:18–20)? How does this idea align with our calling to proclaim the Three Angels’ Messages?

Zion’s willingness to embrace all people finds its fulfillment in the Church’s mission command to proclaim the Gospel to all nations, as recorded in Matthew 28:18–20. There, Jesus says to His disciples: “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’”

This mission command includes the responsibility and mandate of the Church to proclaim the Gospel to all people, regardless of their origin, language, or culture. Similar to how Zion is ready to embrace all people and lead them to a new life, the Church is called to bring the message of love, redemption, and reconciliation through Jesus Christ to all nations.

This idea also aligns well with our calling to proclaim the Three Angels’ Messages, as found in Revelation 14:6–12. This message calls for proclaiming the Gospel in the end times with a loud voice to call people to repentance and worship of the true God.

The Three Angels’ Messages and Jesus’ mission command complement each other in their call for the worldwide spread of the Gospel and the preparation of people for the return of Jesus Christ. By proclaiming these messages and carrying the Gospel into the world, we contribute to the establishment of Zion, the kingdom of God, in its full glory on earth and call all people to a life in communion with God.

The connection between our everyday lives and faith is evident in these texts through the emphasis on the significance of Zion as a place of unification, salvation, and universal worship for all peoples. Zion represents the presence of God, His sovereign rule, and His boundless love for all people. These concepts have direct implications for our daily lives and our faith:

1. Community and Unity: Zion is described as a place of unification for all peoples, where everyone finds a new identity and is established by the Most High Himself. Similarly, as believers, we are called to advocate for unity and community among all people, regardless of their background or culture. This entails promoting mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation to create a world where everyone can live in peace and harmony.

2. Evangelism and Mission: Zion’s willingness to embrace all people and lead them to a new life finds its fulfillment in the Church’s mission command to proclaim the Gospel to all nations. This reminds us that as believers, our calling is to actively share the message of love and redemption through Jesus Christ and bring hope and comfort to others.

3. Universality of Faith: The description of Zion as a place where all nations come together and experience the glory of God reminds us that faith knows no bounds. Our connection to God and our pursuit of a life in accordance with His will transcend national or cultural boundaries. We are all part of the global community of believers who strive for God’s kingdom and His righteousness.

Overall, these texts demonstrate how our daily lives and our faith are intertwined, encouraging us to actively participate in the realization of God’s kingdom of love, unity, and reconciliation in the world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-longing-for-god-in-zion-11-3-zion-the-home-of-all-nations/

1.2 Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem
A Call for Peace: The Significance of Prayer for Jerusalem

Read Psalm 122:1–5. What emotions do the worshippers feel upon their arrival in Jerusalem? What do they hope to find in Jerusalem?

The worshippers arriving in Jerusalem experience joy and excitement. They view Jerusalem as the center of God’s people’s lives because important religious institutions such as the sanctuary and the thrones of judgment are located there. The hope of the pilgrims in Jerusalem is twofold:

1. They hope to find the “testimony for Israel,” which refers to the sanctuary or the place of worship of God. This place was of great importance to them as it symbolized God’s presence and covenant with His people. There, they could fulfill their spiritual needs, practice worship, and seek God.

2. They hope to find justice, symbolized by the thrones of judgment in Jerusalem. This indicates that the pilgrims are not only seeking spiritual fulfillment but also righteousness and justice in their lives and in society. They recognize the close connection between faithfulness to God and the pursuit of justice for all people. Overall, the pilgrims in Jerusalem are not only seeking religious experience and worship but also moral guidance and social justice. This hope reflects their deep connection with God and their pursuit of a life in accordance with His commandments.

Read Psalm 122:6–9. What is the people of God’s most important prayer?

The people of God’s most important prayer, as described in Psalm 122:6–9, is the prayer for the peace of Jerusalem. This prayer implores God’s blessing upon the city and its inhabitants, uniting the worshippers in their desire for peace.

The significance of this prayer lies in the fact that peace in Jerusalem should reign not only externally but also internally, between God and His people and among the children of God. It is a call to the people of God to live in harmony with God and with one another. For only when this peace exists can Jerusalem thrive as a city of peace and experience blessings.

The prayer for the peace of Jerusalem is an expression of the believers’ solidarity and responsibility for one another and for the world. It reflects the hope for the eschatological coming of God’s kingdom of peace, which will encompass not only Jerusalem but the entire world. Overall, this psalm teaches us that prayer for the well-being of the faith community should play a central role in the prayers of the children of God. For only a strong and united people of God can proclaim the message of God’s peace and redemption to the world.

The connection between our daily lives and faith is made evident through prayer for the peace of Jerusalem and practical efforts to strive for harmony among ourselves.

1. Community Prayer: By praying together, we, as believers, seek God’s guidance and blessing for our community. We acknowledge that peace cannot be achieved solely through human efforts but that God’s intervention and blessing are crucial.

2. Exchange and Dialogue: Open and respectful exchange fosters mutual understanding and contributes to conflict resolution. Through dialogue characterized by love and forgiveness, we, as the people of God, can experience harmony and unity.

3. Joint Services and Projects: By serving together and working on projects that benefit the community, we strengthen our bonds and promote a sense of solidarity. Here, we recognize the importance of love and compassion in daily life.

4. Reconciliation and Forgiveness: Willingness to reconcile and forgive is a central aspect of Christian life. By forgiving each other and reconciling, we break down barriers and allow peace to find its place in our hearts and in the community.

5. Joint Study of Scripture: The study of the Bible provides us with a common foundation for our faith and values. Through studying and reflecting on biblical principles and teachings, we, as the people of God, can be strengthened and lay the groundwork for harmony and unity.

6. Community Celebration of Worship and Festivals: Participation in worship services and festivals strengthens our bonds as a community and reminds us of the shared hope we have in God. These communal celebrations foster a sense of belonging and strengthen our unity as the people of God.

Overall, the connection between our daily lives and faith is demonstrated in our pursuit of peace, harmony, and unity among ourselves. Through prayer, exchange, service, reconciliation, biblical study, and communal celebrations, we can actively contribute as the people of God to realize these values in our lives and in our community.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-longing-for-god-in-zion-11-2-prayer-for-the-peace-of-jerusalem/

Lesson 11. Longing for God in Zion
Zion’s Longing for God: A Lesson in Spiritual Depth

The longing for God and the pursuit of His presence are central themes in the Scriptures of the Bible. In Lesson 11, we will delve into the concept of Zion as a place of encounter with God and fulfillment of spiritual yearnings. Zion, a literal location in Jerusalem, serves in the Bible as a symbol of God’s presence, unity, and security for His people.

In this lesson, we will explore the various aspects of Zion, starting from its significance in the Old Testament to its relevance for the Church and believers today. We will examine how Zion functions as a place of worship, protection, and mission, and how these principles are applicable to our daily lives and faith.

By studying Psalm 87, Psalm 46, and Psalm 125, we will delve deeper into the meaning of Zion and understand how, as believers, we can satisfy our longing for God by relying on His presence and protection. Furthermore, we will investigate how these principles shape the mission of the Church in the world and how we, as believers, are called to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples.

By engaging with Zion as a place of longing for God, we will be encouraged to dive deeper into our relationship with Him and fulfill our mission as believers in the world. Let us together immerse ourselves in the longing for God in Zion and discover the significance of this concept for our lives and faith.

11.1 A Day in Your Courts Is Better Than a Thousand Elsewhere
The Longing for God’s Presence: A Look at Psalm 84

Read Psalm 84:1–4. Why does the psalmist long to dwell in the sanctuary?

The psalmist in Psalm 84 expresses a deep longing to dwell in the sanctuary. This longing arises from the experience that a single day in God’s presence is superior to a thousand elsewhere. This superiority lies not only in the external conditions of the sanctuary but above all in the immediate proximity to God Himself.

In the sanctuary, the living presence of God is experienced, enabling a unique experience of closeness and intimacy. Here, worshippers can experience the kindness of the Lord and be satisfied in His house. The presence of God in the sanctuary fulfills the longing for genuine relationship and gives a foretaste of eternal life.

Therefore, the psalmist longs to dwell in the sanctuary to be near God forever. This longing transcends material needs and aims for a deep, spiritual connection with the Creator. In the sanctuary, worshippers find not only comfort and strength but also a reminder of the hope for the coming kingdom of God.

Read Psalm 84:6–13. Who else can be blessed by the sanctuary?

The blessings of the sanctuary extend beyond those who serve directly in the sanctuary and even reach the pilgrims journeying toward it. Psalm 84:6–13 describes how the expectation of encountering God in the sanctuary strengthens the faith of pilgrims and empowers them as they approach the sanctuary.

Furthermore, the psalm shows that even after pilgrims have left the sanctuary, they continue to carry God’s blessing. Their lives are shaped by the experience in the sanctuary, and they live in accordance with the values and principles of God. These “pilgrims of faith” bear the stamp of God’s sanctuary in their lives, no matter where they are.

The final verses of the psalm make it clear that God’s blessing is not limited to specific places but extends to the ends of the earth. Even outside the sanctuary, those who remain in faith with God can experience His grace and blessing. This shows that the connection with God is not limited by spatial boundaries but by faith and devotion to Him. Thus, all who remain in faith can receive the rays of divine grace and blessing, no matter where they are.

Read Revelation 21:3. What hope reflected in the earthly sanctuary is revealed to us here? How can we even begin to imagine what this experience will be like?

Revelation 21:3 reveals a hope that is reflected in the earthly sanctuary but goes beyond it. It says: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.’”

This passage describes the realization of eternal communion between God and humanity. While the earthly sanctuary was a place where believers could seek God’s presence, Revelation 21:3 promises a complete merging of heaven and earth, where God Himself will dwell among humanity. It will be a time when God will be fully present among us, where we will be His people, and He will be our God. This experience will fulfill all the longings and hopes that resonated in the earthly sanctuary.

It is difficult for us to imagine what this experience will be like, as it surpasses the limits of our human imagination. It will be a time when we will see God face to face, without the barriers and limitations of the earthly world. It will be a time of perfect communion, joy, and fulfillment, where all tears will be wiped away, and all pains relieved. Although we can only begin to imagine how this experience will be, Revelation 21:3 gives us hope and encouragement to work towards this future and to place our trust in God, who has promised to be with us for all eternity.

The connection between our everyday lives and faith, as described in the passages, lies in the longing for God’s presence and the hope of fulfilling this longing.

In daily life, we can long for a deep connection with God, for an experience of His presence and guidance in our lives. This longing can motivate us to deepen our spiritual practice and seek ways to encounter God in our daily lives, whether through prayer, meditation, reading the Bible, or through serving others.

The experience of God’s presence in the sanctuary, as described in the Psalm, can also inspire us to intensify our relationship with God. We can long to feel God’s presence not only in specific places or at specific times but in every moment of our lives.

Furthermore, the promise from Revelation that God’s presence is not limited to specific places but that He will be with us wherever we are can comfort and encourage us, even in difficult times. Overall, the connection between our everyday lives and faith shows us that our longing for God and the fulfillment of this longing are closely linked. By longing to draw closer to God and relying on His promises, we can lead a life filled with His presence and blessing.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-longing-for-god-in-zion-11-1-a-day-in-your-courts-is-better-than-a-thousand/