Psalm 72 is a powerful prayer for a righteous king. It points to God’s desire for just leadership. While originally about Solomon, it ultimately foreshadows Christ, the perfect King. This psalm reveals what godly leadership looks like—justice, peace, and compassion. It also declares the universal reign of Christ.
These sample sermon outlines highlight key themes in Psalm 72. They explore God’s justice, Christ’s righteous rule, and His care for the needy. Each outline provides a strong foundation for preaching. Use them to teach about God’s perfect King and His eternal kingdom.
Sample Outlines for a Sermon on Psalm 72
#1. Give the King Your Justice, O God (Psalm 72:1)
Theme
Godly leadership is built on justice and righteousness. Psalm 72:1 teaches that true justice comes from God alone and must guide all who lead.
Introduction
Leadership without God’s justice leads to corruption and oppression. Psalm 72 begins with a plea for God’s justice to be given to the king. This prayer acknowledges that human rulers need divine wisdom to govern rightly. It points to Christ, the ultimate King, who rules with perfect justice. This sermon explores what it means to lead with God’s righteousness and how Christ fulfills this role.
Main Text
Psalm 72:1
Key Doctrines
1. God is the source of true justice.
- Human justice is often flawed, but God’s justice is perfect. The Bible repeatedly shows that His righteousness is unshakable. Unlike human rulers, God sees all things clearly and judges without bias. His justice is rooted in His holiness and love, ensuring that all His decisions are good and right.
- Leaders who seek God’s justice must align their decisions with His Word. The world promotes self-interest and compromise, but God calls His people to higher standards. True justice requires humility before God and obedience to His commands, rather than relying on human wisdom alone.
2. Christ is the fulfillment of God’s just King.
- The Old Testament kings failed to uphold perfect justice. Even the best leaders made mistakes. But Psalm 72 ultimately points to Jesus, the Messiah, who reigns in righteousness. He is the King who rules with fairness, mercy, and truth.
- Jesus demonstrated God’s justice through His life and ministry. He defended the weak, exposed hypocrisy, and upheld God’s law. His death and resurrection secured justice for sinners, showing that God does not ignore sin but offers salvation through His Son.
3. Christians are called to reflect God’s justice.
- God commands His people to act justly in all areas of life. Micah 6:8 instructs believers to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” This applies to personal relationships, workplaces, and communities.
- Justice is not just about legal systems; it’s about daily choices. Speaking truth, defending the oppressed, and treating others with fairness all reflect God’s justice. Christians must be known for integrity and righteousness in everything they do.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does your understanding of God’s justice shape the way you make decisions?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s justice in your workplace, home, and community?
- Do you struggle with trusting God’s justice when you see injustice in the world? Why?
- How does Christ’s example challenge you to be more just and merciful in your actions?
- What specific steps can you take this week to practice justice in a way that honors God?
Call to Commitment
God’s justice is not just an abstract idea—it is meant to be lived out. As followers of Christ, we are called to uphold His justice in our daily lives. This means standing for truth, showing mercy, and acting with integrity. If we want to lead in any capacity—whether in our homes, churches, or workplaces—we must seek God’s wisdom and righteousness.
Commit today to trust in God’s perfect justice and reflect it in all you do. Ask Him to guide your decisions, purify your heart, and strengthen your faith. The world needs leaders who are not swayed by corruption but are firmly rooted in God’s truth. Will you commit to being one of them?
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for revealing Your perfect justice through Your Word. We acknowledge that true righteousness comes from You alone. Teach us to seek Your wisdom in every decision and to lead with integrity. Help us trust Your justice, even when we do not understand the circumstances around us. Give us the courage to stand for what is right in a world that often ignores Your truth.
Shape our hearts to reflect Your justice in all we do. Let us be people who show fairness, mercy, and love in every situation. Strengthen us to resist compromise and to act in ways that honor You. We surrender our leadership, influence, and choices to You, knowing that Your ways are always good. Thank You for Christ, our perfect King, who reigns in righteousness.
Amen.
#2. May He Rule with Righteousness and Peace (Psalm 72:7)
Theme
God’s ideal ruler governs with righteousness and brings lasting peace. Psalm 72:7 reveals that true peace flows from a foundation of godly justice.
Introduction
Many leaders promise peace, but few deliver. Human peace is often temporary, built on compromise rather than righteousness. Psalm 72:7 declares that under the rule of God’s chosen King, peace will flourish. This sermon explores how righteousness and peace are inseparable in God’s kingdom. It also shows how Christ, the true King, brings lasting peace to those who follow Him.
Main Text
Psalm 72:7
Key Doctrines
1. Righteousness is the foundation of true peace.
- The world seeks peace through treaties, policies, and negotiations. However, without righteousness, peace is fragile. Sin, selfishness, and injustice always disrupt worldly peace. God’s peace is different—it is built on His perfect justice and truth.
- Scripture teaches that righteousness and peace go together. Isaiah 32:17 says, “The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.” Where God’s righteousness reigns, true peace follows.
2. Christ is the Prince of Peace.
- Jesus is the fulfillment of Psalm 72:7. Isaiah 9:6 calls Him the “Prince of Peace.” Unlike earthly rulers, He does not bring peace through force or negotiation but through His perfect rule and sacrifice.
- Christ’s peace is not just external—it transforms hearts. Through His death and resurrection, He made peace between God and humanity. Those who submit to His rule experience a deep, lasting peace that the world cannot provide.
3. Christians are called to be peacemakers.
- Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). Believers are called to live out the peace of Christ in their relationships, homes, and communities.
- Being a peacemaker does not mean avoiding conflict but pursuing righteousness. True peace comes when we uphold truth, forgive others, and seek reconciliation in a way that honors God.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does righteousness in your life affect the peace you experience?
- Do you rely on Christ’s peace, or are you searching for peace in worldly things?
- In what ways can you be a peacemaker in your family, workplace, and church?
- How does understanding Christ as the Prince of Peace change your perspective on life’s struggles?
- What steps can you take to cultivate God’s peace in your daily walk with Him?
Call to Commitment
The world offers false peace—temporary, fragile, and built on unstable foundations. But God’s peace is different. It is rooted in righteousness and lasts forever. As believers, we are called to trust in Christ’s peace and reflect it in our lives. This means seeking righteousness in all we do and bringing peace to those around us.
Will you commit to living in the peace Christ provides? Will you seek righteousness so that His peace can flourish in your life? Choose today to trust in the Prince of Peace, follow His ways, and share His peace with the world.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
We thank You for the promise of peace that comes through Your righteousness. In a world filled with conflict and uncertainty, we look to You as our source of true peace. Help us to trust in Your justice and live in the peace that Christ provides. Guide us to be peacemakers, standing for truth while showing grace and love. Let Your peace rule in our hearts and overflow into our relationships.
Forgive us for seeking peace in the wrong places. Teach us to rest in Your presence and to reflect Your righteousness in all we do. Give us the courage to promote peace in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Thank You for Jesus, the Prince of Peace, who reigns forever.
Amen.
#3. May All Kings Bow Before Him (Psalm 72:11)
Theme
Christ’s kingdom surpasses all earthly powers. Psalm 72:11 points to the day when all rulers will submit to His authority.
Introduction
World leaders rise and fall, but Christ’s reign is eternal. Psalm 72:11 proclaims that all kings will one day bow before Him. This verse reminds us that no earthly authority can rival God’s rule. It challenges us to examine whether we have truly submitted to Christ as Lord.
Main Text
Psalm 72:11
Key Doctrines
1. Christ is the supreme King over all nations.
- Human governments are temporary, but Christ’s reign is forever. Daniel 2:44 says that God will establish a kingdom that “shall never be destroyed.” Every nation, ruler, and authority is ultimately under His control.
- Many resist Christ’s authority now, but Philippians 2:10-11 declares that one day, “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Submission to Him is not optional—it is inevitable.
2. Worship is the proper response to Christ’s kingship.
- Psalm 72:11 does not just say kings will acknowledge Christ—it says they will bow. Bowing is a sign of worship, humility, and surrender. Recognizing Christ as King means giving Him the worship He deserves.
- True worship is not just singing songs; it is a lifestyle of submission. Romans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” This means surrendering every area of life to His rule.
3. Christ’s kingdom will bring ultimate justice and peace.
- Unlike human rulers who often fail, Christ will reign with perfect justice. Isaiah 9:7 says, “Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end.” His rule will bring righteousness to the whole earth.
- Until Christ’s return, believers are called to live as citizens of His kingdom now. This means pursuing justice, sharing the gospel, and proclaiming His lordship in all areas of life.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Have you fully submitted to Christ’s authority in your life? If not, what is holding you back?
- How does knowing that all kings will one day bow before Christ change your perspective on world events?
- What does it mean for you to worship Christ as King in your daily life?
- How can you share the message of Christ’s kingdom with those around you?
- Are there areas of your life where you resist Christ’s rule? How can you surrender them to Him?
Call to Commitment
Christ is not just a good teacher or a wise leader—He is the King of kings. One day, every ruler and nation will acknowledge His authority. But we are called to bow before Him now. Worship is not just for the future; it is a daily act of surrender.
Will you submit to Christ today? Will you give Him the worship and obedience He deserves? The world may reject His rule, but His kingdom will never fail. Choose now to live as a faithful servant of the King.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We acknowledge that Jesus is the true King over all the earth. While human leaders change, His reign is eternal. Help us to submit fully to His authority and live as citizens of His kingdom. May our lives reflect our worship, and may we proclaim His lordship to those around us. Strengthen our faith so that we trust in His justice and righteousness.
Forgive us for the times we have resisted Your rule. Teach us to bow before Christ in every area of our lives. Let our worship be sincere, our obedience unwavering, and our hope fixed on Your eternal kingdom. Thank You for Your promise that one day all will recognize Jesus as Lord.
Amen.
#4. May He Deliver the Needy Who Cry Out (Psalm 72:12)
Theme
God’s heart is for the poor and the oppressed, and His righteous King brings justice and deliverance to those in need. Psalm 72:12 reveals that Christ, the ultimate King, hears the cries of the afflicted and acts on their behalf.
Introduction
Throughout history, many leaders have ignored the cries of the poor. But God’s chosen King does not overlook them—He listens, He cares, and He acts. Psalm 72:12 assures us that Christ, the righteous King, is deeply concerned for the needy. As His followers, we are called to reflect His heart by showing compassion and standing for justice.
Main Text
Psalm 72:12
Key Doctrines
1. God’s character is one of justice and compassion.
- Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as a defender of the weak. Psalm 146:7-9 declares that He “upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.” His justice is not just a legal matter—it is deeply personal.
- God’s concern for the needy is not passive. He actively intervenes, lifting the brokenhearted and restoring their dignity. His justice is perfect, and He calls His people to reflect His compassionate character.
2. Christ is the ultimate deliverer of the oppressed.
- Jesus’ ministry demonstrated His care for the marginalized. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and welcomed sinners. Luke 4:18-19 reveals His mission: “to proclaim good news to the poor… to set the oppressed free.”
- Beyond physical needs, Christ delivers us from spiritual bondage. Sin is the greatest oppression, and Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross secures our ultimate freedom. In Him, we find true deliverance and restoration.
3. Believers are called to care for the needy.
- Following Christ means embracing His concern for the poor. Proverbs 31:8-9 commands, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves… defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Our faith must be active in service.
- True religion is demonstrated through compassion. James 1:27 states, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” As followers of Christ, we must not ignore the needs around us.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does knowing God cares for the needy shape your understanding of His character?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s deliverance in your own life?
- Are you actively seeking to help those in need, or are you overlooking the cries of the oppressed?
- How can you follow Christ’s example in caring for the marginalized?
- What steps can you take to advocate for justice and support the vulnerable in your community?
Call to Commitment
God calls us to reflect His heart for the needy. It is not enough to acknowledge their suffering—we must act. Christ, our King, cares for the broken, and He invites us to join Him in bringing justice and restoration. Will you commit to being His hands and feet in a hurting world?
Now is the time to step forward in faith. Choose to be a voice for the voiceless, a helper to the helpless, and a representative of Christ’s compassion. Let His love move you to action as you seek to serve those in need.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for Your deep compassion for the needy and the oppressed. We praise You for being a God who hears the cries of the afflicted and acts on their behalf. Help us to reflect Your heart by showing kindness, generosity, and justice to those in need. Open our eyes to the suffering around us and give us the courage to respond.
Forgive us for the times we have ignored the cries of the poor. Transform our hearts so that we may live out Your love in practical ways. May we be faithful servants, bringing hope to the broken and pointing others to the ultimate deliverance found in Christ.
Amen.
#5. May He Redeem Their Lives from Oppression and Violence (Psalm 72:14)
Theme
God’s righteous King is the Redeemer who rescues His people from oppression and violence. Psalm 72:14 declares that Christ redeems lives, offering hope, protection, and ultimate freedom.
Introduction
Many suffer under the weight of oppression and violence, longing for deliverance. While human efforts to bring justice often fall short, Psalm 72:14 reminds us that God’s King, Jesus Christ, is the true Redeemer. He not only frees people from earthly oppression but also redeems them from the bondage of sin.
Main Text
Psalm 72:14
Key Doctrines
1. Redemption is central to God’s plan of salvation.
- The Bible is a story of redemption. From the Old Testament to the New, God works to rescue His people. Exodus 6:6 states, “I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.”
- Jesus fulfills this promise. Through His death and resurrection, He redeems us from sin, setting us free from its power. Redemption is not just about physical deliverance—it is about eternal salvation.
2. Christ delivers us from spiritual and earthly oppression.
- Jesus came to “proclaim liberty to the captives” (Luke 4:18). He offers freedom not just from physical oppression but also from the chains of fear, shame, and guilt.
- While the world continues to struggle with injustice, believers can trust in Christ’s ultimate victory. Revelation 21:4 promises that in His kingdom, there will be no more suffering, pain, or death.
3. Believers are called to be agents of redemption.
- As followers of Christ, we are called to participate in His work of redemption. Isaiah 1:17 instructs, “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression.” The church must stand against injustice and work to bring healing.
- Redemption is not just about social action—it is about pointing people to Christ. Sharing the gospel is the greatest act of redemption, as it leads people from spiritual death to eternal life.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How has Christ redeemed you from the oppression of sin?
- What injustices around you need to be confronted with the love and truth of Christ?
- How can you be an instrument of redemption in your family, workplace, or church?
- In what ways can you trust God’s justice in a world filled with violence and suffering?
- Are you actively sharing the message of Christ’s redemption with those who need it?
Call to Commitment
Christ is our Redeemer, and He calls us to join in His mission. The world is filled with suffering, but we have hope in the One who redeems and restores. Will you commit to standing for justice, sharing the gospel, and living as a reflection of Christ’s redemption?
Now is the time to act. Let Christ’s love shape your response to oppression and violence. Be bold in proclaiming His truth, and trust that His kingdom will bring ultimate justice.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our Redeemer. We praise You for rescuing us from sin and giving us the hope of eternal life. In a world filled with violence and injustice, help us to trust in Your justice and live as instruments of Your redemption. Give us the courage to stand against oppression and proclaim the message of salvation.
Forgive us for when we have been passive in the face of suffering. Teach us to love as You love and to act as You lead. May we be faithful witnesses of Your redemption, pointing others to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Psalm 72 reminds us of the righteousness, justice, and compassion of God’s true King—Jesus Christ. He hears the cries of the needy, delivers the oppressed, and redeems lives from violence. As His followers, we are called to reflect His heart by pursuing justice, showing mercy, and proclaiming His salvation.
Our response should not be passive. We must actively live out our faith, standing for righteousness and pointing others to the hope found in Christ. May we trust in His ultimate rule, live as His hands and feet, and remain faithful in sharing His gospel with the world.