Why the Psalms Still Matter
A Guide to Experiencing the Psalms in the 21st Century
The book of Psalms—called Tehillim in Hebrew, meaning “Praises”—is one of the most important parts of the Bible. In the Hebrew Bible, it’s found in the section called the “Writings,” which comes after the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. Interestingly, Psalms is one of the top three Old Testament books quoted in the New Testament, along with Deuteronomy and Isaiah. That’s because the early Christians, including Jesus himself, saw the Psalms as pointing ahead to the coming of Christ. After His resurrection, Jesus told His followers that everything written about Him in the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms had to come true (see Luke 24:44).
The Psalms help us understand how people in ancient Israel worshiped God. While the first books of the Bible (like the ones written by Moses) describe rituals and priestly duties, the Psalms show us the heart of worship—the honest prayers, raw emotions, and deep trust that regular people had toward God. Even though many psalms were sung by trained musicians (Levites) and often use the voice of King David, they still give us a powerful picture of what it means to bring praise and prayer before God.
Originally, the Psalms were part of worship in the sanctuary in Jerusalem, sung alongside animal sacrifices. Many probably began in the tabernacle (tent) David set up for the ark of the covenant. Later, when Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, the Psalms continued to be used in worship there. As time passed and synagogues became common, the Psalms were used in weekly worship with readings from the Law and the Prophets.
Jesus and the first Christians worshiped with psalms too singing them at meals, in prison, and in gatherings of the early church (see Matthew 26:30; Acts 16:25; 1 Corinthians 14:26; Ephesians 5:19). And believers through history have continued to rely on the Psalms: in ancient chants, Reformation hymnals, responsive readings, and modern worship songs.
The Psalms give us a wide view of the spiritual life of God’s people. Even if we didn’t have the rest of the Bible, we could learn a lot about Israel’s faith and history just from this book. Psalms connect deeply with the idea of covenant—the relationship between God and His people. Many of the different types of psalms (like prayers, laments, and praise songs) mirror the rituals used when people renewed their commitment to God.
And finally, the Psalms are beautiful poetry. They’re powerful, emotional, and artistic. Whether you’re reading them for spiritual insight, comfort in a tough time, or simply to appreciate their beauty, the Psalms have something real and lasting to say.
Study Guide
The book of Psalms is a deeply significant part of Scripture that reveals the heart of worship, reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, and continues to inspire both personal devotion and communal worship across generations.
Key Points to Remember
Psalms Means “Praises”
The Hebrew name Tehillim means “Praises.” Psalms is part of the third section of the Hebrew Bible, the Writings, following the Law and the Prophets.Psalms in the New Testament
Psalms is one of the most frequently quoted Old Testament books in the New Testament. Jesus Himself referenced the Psalms as pointing to His life and mission (Luke 24:44).Worship from the Heart
While the Torah describes rituals and priestly duties, Psalms captures the inner life of worshipers—their joys, struggles, repentance, and praise.Used in Ancient and Early Christian Worship
Psalms were sung in Israel’s tabernacle and temple worship and became part of synagogue practices. Jesus, His disciples, and early Christians also sang psalms together.Psalms Through History
From early chants to modern worship songs, the Psalms have always been central to Christian worship around the world.A Window into Covenant Faith
The Psalms show how the people of God responded to His covenant with heartfelt prayer and praise, often echoing the structure of covenant renewal.Beautiful and Timeless Poetry
Beyond their theological depth, the Psalms are admired for their poetic beauty and emotional power, making them meaningful across cultures and eras.
Key Scriptures Referenced
Luke 24:44 – Jesus confirms the Psalms point to Him.
Matthew 26:30 – Jesus and the disciples sing a hymn after the Last Supper.
Acts 16:25 – Paul and Silas sing hymns in prison.
1 Corinthians 14:26 – Early church gatherings include psalms.
Ephesians 5:19 – Believers are encouraged to sing psalms and spiritual songs.
Discussion Questions
Why do you think the Psalms were so important to both ancient Israel and the early church?
What makes the Psalms different from other books in the Bible?
How do the Psalms help us understand the emotions and faith of the people who wrote them?
Have you ever found comfort or encouragement in a Psalm? Which one and why?
In what ways can we use the Psalms in our own worship and prayer life today?
Reflection Activity
Pick one psalm each day this week and write a short journal entry in response. Use these three questions to guide your reflection:
What is the psalmist feeling or experiencing?
How does this psalm speak to your life today?
How can you turn this psalm into your own personal prayer?
You can start with Psalms 1, 23, 51, 63, and 100. Read them slowly, let the words sink in, and write from your heart.