Belonging - (Psalm 87)

Belonging Psalm 87 Unity is not found in the accomplishments of man, but in the work of God in and through his church. I. Chosen and Established by God (vv, 1-2, 5-7) A. The Mountain City (v. 1) B. Chosen by God (vv. 2, 5) C. The Place of New Birth (vv. 5-7) II. Overcomes and Heals Earthly Divisions (vv. 4-5) A. Includes former Enemies (vv. 4-5) B. Heals Earthly Divisions (Genesis 9:26-27; 12:3) III. Forms Our Identities (vv. 1, 3-7) A. Found in the Church (vv. 1, 3; cf. Galatians 4:26; Hebrews 11:10; 12:22-24) B. Reveals Your Hearts (vv. 3, 7) C. The Bread of Belonging (1 Corinthians 10:17) Discussion Starters 1. Monday—How important is it to belong to some group or community? Why do you think we despise isolation? 2. Tuesday—Why do you think God always met with his people on mountains? What made those mountains special? 3. Wednesday—What does Psalm 87 mean when it says many are born in Zion? What kind of life is this? Why do we need new birth? 4. Thursday—Why do we struggle when God shows mercy to our enemies? What does this reveal about our hearts? 5. Friday—Why do we need to love God’s church if we love him? Where is the church’s unity to be found?