Overview 

Psalm 133 is a short but powerful psalm that expresses the beauty and significance of unity among God’s people. The psalmist, believed to be David, begins by stating, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” The theme of the psalm centers around the blessing that comes from unity within the community of believers. David compares this unity to precious anointing oil and dew from Mount Hermon, both of which symbolize God’s blessing and favor. The psalm concludes by declaring that where there is unity, the Lord commands His blessing, including life forevermore.

Theologically, Psalm 133 emphasizes that unity is not merely a social or practical benefit but a spiritual blessing that reflects God’s desire for His people to live in harmony. The psalm underscores the importance of the church as a unified body, where believers live in mutual love and support, reflecting the unity of the Trinity itself. It points to the fact that God’s blessing rests upon His people when they are united, and this unity is not a product of human effort alone but is a divine gift that comes from God’s grace.

In the context of the broader redemptive story, Psalm 133 points to the unity that Christ established among His followers. Jesus’ prayer in John 17 for His disciples to be one, as He and the Father are one, echoes the same theme found in Psalm 133. Just as unity among God’s people is blessed by God, so the church is called to live out the unity that is a reflection of God’s love and presence among them. The psalm reminds believers of the joy and blessing that unity brings, as it reflects God’s own nature and His ultimate plan for His people.

Historical and Literary Context

Psalm 133 is one of the “Songs of Ascents” (Psalms 120-134), a collection of psalms sung by the Israelites as they made their way to Jerusalem for the annual religious festivals. These psalms were meant to prepare the people for worship and to remind them of God’s faithfulness, power, and love. Psalm 133 fits into this context by emphasizing the unity that is central to the worship of God, both in the physical gathering of God’s people in Jerusalem and in their spiritual unity as the people of God.

Historically, this psalm is rooted in the period of Israel’s establishment as a nation under God. David, as king, sought to unite the tribes of Israel, and this psalm reflects his desire for peace and unity among the people. The imagery of “oil on the head” and “dew of Hermon” would have resonated deeply with the Israelites, especially in a time when national unity was critical for both worship and survival. The anointing oil, which was used to consecrate the high priest, symbolizes the holiness and divine blessing that comes from unity, while the dew of Hermon, known for its life-giving properties, symbolizes the refreshment and vitality that unity brings.

In the New Testament, this psalm’s themes resonate with the church’s call to unity in Christ. Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, prayed for the unity of His followers, and the early church in Acts is depicted as living in unity, experiencing the blessings of God’s presence and favor. Psalm 133, therefore, is not only a reflection of Israel’s unity under God but also points to the unity the church is called to experience today as the body of Christ.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

• Unity in the Body of Christ: The central theme of Psalm 133 is unity. The psalm expresses the goodness and pleasantness of God’s people living together in harmony. This unity is not just a social or practical good but is a spiritual blessing that God delights in. In evangelical theology, unity is considered a key characteristic of the church, and the Bible calls believers to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). This unity reflects the unity within the Godhead—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and serves as a witness to the world of God’s presence and work in the church.
• God’s Blessing through Unity: The psalmist highlights that unity among God’s people brings God’s blessing. Just as oil poured on the head of Aaron symbolizes consecration and God’s favor, so unity brings God’s anointing and blessing. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that the Father is glorified when believers are united in love, and this unity becomes a testimony to the world of the gospel’s power (John 13:35). The psalm emphasizes that when believers are united, they can expect God’s favor and blessing to rest upon them.
• The Role of God’s Presence in Unity: Psalm 133 points to the idea that unity is not just a human achievement but a gift from God. The oil symbolizes God’s consecration of His people, and the dew symbolizes the refreshing presence of God that comes with unity. In Christian theology, unity is not achieved by human effort alone but through the work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live in peace with one another. Unity is a reflection of God’s presence among His people, and it is God who sustains that unity.
• Spiritual Vitality and Refreshment: The psalm uses the image of the dew of Mount Hermon to illustrate the vitality and refreshment that comes with unity. Dew is necessary for life in arid climates, and its abundance on Mount Hermon symbolizes the spiritual life and energy that flow from God when His people live in unity. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is often associated with refreshing and renewing God’s people (Acts 3:19), and unity among believers is an outpouring of that spiritual refreshment.
• The Eschatological Blessing of Unity: Psalm 133 concludes with the declaration that unity brings “life forevermore.” This eschatological note points to the eternal life and peace that will be fully realized when God’s kingdom is fully established. The church’s unity is a foretaste of the ultimate unity that will exist in the new heaven and new earth, where God’s people will live in perfect harmony, worshiping Him without division.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verse 1: 

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

This opening verse presents the central theme of the psalm: the beauty and goodness of unity among God’s people. The psalmist begins with an exclamation of how “good and pleasant” it is when believers dwell together in harmony. This unity is a source of delight to both God and His people. The word “good” refers to something morally right or excellent, while “pleasant” conveys the idea of something delightful or gratifying, indicating that unity is not only desirable but also a blessing.

Doctrinal Insight and Application: Unity among believers is a core principle in Christian theology, as it reflects the nature of God. Theologically, unity is a sign of the church being true to its identity as the body of Christ. In John 17:21, Jesus prays for His followers, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” The unity described here is not merely about getting along; it reflects a deeper spiritual harmony that mirrors the unity within the Trinity.

For believers today, this verse serves as a reminder that unity is not optional. The church is called to live in unity, as this brings glory to God and demonstrates the power of the gospel to reconcile diverse people into one body. Disunity, therefore, is not just a social or relational problem; it hinders the church’s witness to the world and its reflection of God’s kingdom.

Cross-reference:
Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
John 17:21 – “That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”

Verse 2: 

“It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe.”

In this verse, the psalmist uses the metaphor of anointing oil to describe the blessing of unity. The “precious oil” refers to the consecrating oil used in the Old Testament to anoint priests, specifically Aaron, the high priest. The oil running down Aaron’s beard and robe symbolizes the abundant, overflowing nature of the blessing that unity brings. The imagery of oil emphasizes the sanctifying and consecrating power of unity—it sets apart God’s people for His service and mission.

Doctrinal Insight and Application: The anointing oil was a symbol of God’s presence and blessing. In Exodus 30:22-30, God commands Moses to create a special anointing oil for the priests, setting them apart for service. By likening unity to this precious oil, the psalmist teaches that unity is not only a social or organizational necessity but a sacred and consecrated reality. Just as the oil anointed and set apart Aaron for service to God, unity among God’s people sets them apart to fulfill His mission.

For Christians, this verse highlights the sanctity of unity. When the church is united, it reflects the holiness and purity of God’s kingdom. The blessing of unity is not a superficial one; it is a deep, spiritual blessing that enables the church to fulfill its calling to be a light to the world. This reminds us to take seriously the call to live in harmony, as doing so reflects the holy calling of the church.

Cross-reference:
Exodus 30:22-30 – The instructions for making the anointing oil for the priests.
1 Peter 1:2 – “Who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with His blood.”

Verse 3: 

“It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”

The final verse compares the blessing of unity to the dew of Mount Hermon, a mountain known for its abundant and life-giving dew in the dry land of Israel. Mount Hermon was located in the northern part of Israel, and its dew was essential for life, as it watered the land. Mount Zion, the site of Jerusalem and the temple, is the spiritual center for God’s people. The psalmist is emphasizing that unity is not just a pleasant thing but is essential for spiritual vitality, like the dew that brings life to the land.

The phrase “life forevermore” points to the eternal life that comes as a result of God’s blessing, which is experienced both now and in the future. The unity of God’s people is not only a present blessing but also a foretaste of the eternal life and peace that will be fully realized in God’s kingdom.

Doctrinal Insight and Application: Theologically, this verse reinforces the idea that unity is not just a temporal blessing but one with eternal significance. The dew of Mount Hermon represents the refreshing and renewing work of the Holy Spirit, who sustains and revitalizes the church. Just as dew is necessary for the flourishing of the land, so unity is essential for the flourishing of the church. It is only when the church is united that it can experience the fullness of God’s blessing and the life He offers.

This verse also highlights the connection between unity and eternal life. Christians are called to live in harmony with one another, not only because it brings blessing in the present but also because it reflects the eternal life that believers will experience in God’s kingdom. Unity is a signpost of the kingdom of God, pointing forward to the ultimate unity that believers will enjoy with Christ forever.

Cross-reference:
John 17:23 – “I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
Revelation 21:1-4 – The ultimate fulfillment of unity in the New Jerusalem, where God dwells with His people forever.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Psalm 133 speaks powerfully to the theme of unity, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ and His work of redemption. The unity described in this psalm mirrors the perfect unity that exists within the Godhead: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself prayed for His followers to experience this same unity, reflecting the oneness He shares with the Father. In John 17:21, Jesus prays, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” This prayer for unity is not just a desire for relational harmony among believers but a reflection of the deep, eternal unity within the Triune God.

The anointing oil and the dew from Mount Hermon used in Psalm 133 to symbolize the blessings of unity point forward to the work of Jesus Christ. The anointing oil, which consecrates and sets apart, finds its fulfillment in Christ’s anointing by the Holy Spirit at His baptism (Matthew 3:16). As the true Messiah, He is the one who brings God’s presence in fullness, and through His sacrifice, He unites all believers to Himself and to each other, forming the body of Christ, the Church.

Moreover, the psalm speaks of God’s blessing and the life that comes with unity. Jesus is the source of that life, as He declares in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Through His death and resurrection, Jesus secures eternal life for all who are united to Him by faith. In the Church, this life is manifest through the unity of believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and ultimately pointing to the eternal unity that will be fully realized when Christ returns to establish His Kingdom in the new heaven and new earth.

In this way, Psalm 133 highlights the broader redemptive story, where unity in Christ is central. The psalm anticipates the kingdom of God that Jesus inaugurates, where unity among God’s people reflects the harmony that God desires for His creation. This unity is not just a social ideal but a profound theological truth that has its origin in the work of Christ and is sustained by His ongoing presence through the Holy Spirit.

Connection to the Father

Psalm 133 ultimately points to the Father’s desire for unity among His people. The psalm begins by describing the goodness and pleasantness of unity, which is a reflection of God’s will for His people. This desire for unity is rooted in the Father’s eternal plan of redemption. From the beginning, God’s design for humanity was that they would live in harmony with one another and with Him. The unity described in Psalm 133 aligns with God’s original creation purpose, as He declared in Genesis that it was not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18).

In the New Testament, God the Father’s desire for unity is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who, through His life, death, and resurrection, reconciles humanity to the Father and to one another. The Father’s love for the Son and His sending of the Son into the world to accomplish redemption highlights His desire for relationship and unity, not just among the persons of the Trinity but with His created people.

The psalmist’s call for unity in Psalm 133 resonates with Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17, where He prays for His followers to be one, just as He and the Father are one. The Father’s love and His plan for unity within the body of Christ are rooted in His will that His people live in fellowship with Him and with one another. Psalm 133 is a declaration of God’s blessing upon this unity, and it anticipates the ultimate fulfillment of this unity in the eternal fellowship believers will enjoy with the Father in His kingdom.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

The unity described in Psalm 133 is ultimately made possible by the Holy Spirit. While the psalmist speaks of the blessing of unity, it is the Holy Spirit who empowers believers to live in this unity. Jesus’ promise in John 14:17 that the Holy Spirit will be in believers enables the unity the psalm points to. The Holy Spirit binds the church together in one body, as Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:13, “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body.”

The image of oil in Psalm 133, symbolizing anointing and consecration, connects to the work of the Holy Spirit, who anoints and empowers believers for service to God and one another. Just as the oil in the psalm flows down from Aaron’s head to his robe, symbolizing an abundant blessing, so too the Holy Spirit fills believers, creating a unity that flows from Christ to His body, the Church. This work of the Spirit is essential for the church’s spiritual vitality and unity.

Moreover, the “dew of Hermon” in Psalm 133 is another image that points to the work of the Spirit. Just as dew refreshes and nourishes the land, so the Holy Spirit refreshes and sustains the life of the church. In Acts 3:19, the apostle Peter speaks of the refreshing work of the Holy Spirit, which comes after repentance, offering the renewal of life and the vitality that is reflected in the unity of the church.

The Holy Spirit is the one who continually empowers believers to maintain the unity that Psalm 133 describes. As the Spirit works in believers’ hearts, He cultivates the love, peace, and harmony that are the fruit of unity. The Spirit also helps believers live out the unity of the church, bringing glory to God and fulfilling His will for His people.

Connection to God’s Love

Psalm 133 is ultimately a reflection of God’s love for His people. The psalmist declares that the unity of God’s people is both “good” and “pleasant,” signifying that God delights in the unity of His people. This reflects God’s heart for His people to live in harmony with one another, reflecting the love He has poured out upon them. Unity among believers is a demonstration of God’s love, as it shows that His people are living in the way He designed—united in purpose, faith, and love.

This unity also reveals God’s care for His people. Just as dew is necessary for the land to flourish, so unity is necessary for the flourishing of the church. God’s love for His people is displayed in His provision of unity, which brings the blessing of His presence, power, and life. In the New Testament, the ultimate expression of God’s love is seen in Jesus Christ, who brings reconciliation between God and humanity. Through His death on the cross, Christ secures the unity of believers, bringing them into fellowship with God and with one another. This unity is a direct result of God’s love, as He desired to restore the broken relationships caused by sin.

The psalm also highlights that where unity exists, there God bestows His blessing, “even life forevermore.” This is a direct reference to the eternal life that God gives to His people through Christ. God’s love is not just about temporary blessings but points to the eternal life that believers will experience in His presence, living in perfect unity with Him and with one another forever. Psalm 133, therefore, not only points to the temporal blessings of unity but also anticipates the eternal blessing of living in the presence of God, where unity will be perfectly realized in His kingdom.

Sermon Outline and Flow: “The Beauty and Blessing of Unity”

Introduction:

• Opening Question: Have you ever experienced the joy of being truly united with others—whether in a family, a friendship, or even in the church? How does unity impact our relationships and our effectiveness as a community?
• Introduction to Psalm 133: Psalm 133 is a short, powerful psalm that speaks of the beauty and blessing of unity among God’s people. The psalmist compares unity to precious anointing oil and the life-giving dew of Mount Hermon, both symbols of God’s favor and blessing. It teaches us that when believers live in harmony, God’s presence and blessings are with them.
• Thesis: Today, we’ll explore how unity is not only pleasing to God but also essential for experiencing His blessings, and how we can foster that unity in our lives and communities.

Main Points:

1. Unity is Good and Pleasant (Psalm 133:1)

• Point: The psalmist begins by affirming the intrinsic goodness and pleasantness of unity among God’s people. Unity is a desirable state that brings joy to God and His people. It is not just about getting along but about sharing in the life and mission of God together.
• Transition: But why is unity so important? Why is it so central to our lives as believers?
• Application: Reflect on the areas in your life where you may be experiencing disunity—whether in relationships, at church, or in your workplace. How does this verse challenge us to pursue peace and harmony in those areas?
• Example: Share a personal story of how a team or group came together and accomplished something great because they were united. Contrast that with a scenario where division led to failure or frustration.

2. Unity Brings God’s Blessing (Psalm 133:2)

• Point: The psalmist uses the imagery of anointing oil poured on Aaron’s head to symbolize the abundant and sacred blessing that comes from unity. Just as oil consecrates and sanctifies, unity among believers invites God’s presence and sets us apart for His purposes.
• Transition: Not only does unity bring God’s blessing, but it is also essential for the spiritual health and vitality of the church.
• Application: Consider the ways in which unity has brought blessing to your church or family. How does unity impact your ability to serve, love, and live out your faith? In what ways can you encourage unity within your own community of believers?
• Example: Illustrate this with a story of a church or ministry that flourished because of unity—perhaps a missions trip, church planting, or a service project where people worked together in harmony and saw God’s blessing.

3. Unity Brings Life and Vitality (Psalm 133:3)

• Point: The dew of Mount Hermon symbolizes life-giving refreshment, just as unity among God’s people brings vitality to the church. The psalmist makes a profound statement that where there is unity, there God bestows life forevermore—unity brings not only temporal blessings but also eternal rewards.
• Transition: Unity, therefore, is not just a temporary blessing but a preview of the eternal unity believers will experience in God’s kingdom.
• Application: How can you cultivate a spirit of unity that extends beyond Sunday gatherings? How does understanding that unity brings life help us to prioritize relationships and peace within the church community?
• Example: Share an example of a community or family that experienced renewal and restoration because they worked through conflicts and embraced unity. Highlight how that unity led to spiritual growth and deeper fellowship.

Conclusion:

• Summary: Unity among God’s people is a profound blessing that brings both temporal and eternal rewards. It reflects the unity within the Trinity and is a reflection of the gospel. When the church lives in unity, it becomes a powerful witness to the world of God’s love and power.
• Call to Action: Today, let us consider how we can be agents of unity in our families, churches, and communities. Are there relationships we need to mend? Are we fostering an environment of peace and understanding in our interactions with others? Let us commit to living in harmony, knowing that this is pleasing to God and that He promises His blessing upon such unity.
• Closing Prayer: Ask God to help the congregation live in unity with one another, reflecting His love, and to empower them through the Holy Spirit to work for peace in all their relationships.

Illustrations and Examples:

1. A Sports Team United for a Common Goal: Consider a sports team that succeeds because every member is united toward a common goal. When everyone works together, following the same playbook, they are more likely to achieve victory. In the same way, the church, when united, can accomplish God’s mission on earth. When disunity creeps in, it’s like a team trying to play without coordination—it can’t function properly.
2. The Power of a United Family: A family working together during a crisis, like the loss of a loved one, can experience a deep sense of togetherness that strengthens their bond. This is a tangible example of how unity fosters strength and endurance. Similarly, when believers unite, they can face life’s challenges with God’s strength.
3. A Church Serving Together: Share the story of a church that came together for a major outreach project, such as a mission trip or community service event. Because everyone was on the same page, working in unity, the project was not only successful but also led to a deeper sense of community and shared purpose. The blessing of unity made the work more effective and brought joy to everyone involved.

Application for Today’s Christian:

• Discipleship: Unity is an essential component of discipleship. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in harmony with one another, reflecting the unity that exists within the Godhead. Discipleship is not just about individual growth but about growing together as the body of Christ. Unity allows us to challenge, encourage, and support one another in our walk with God.
• Stewardship: Christians are stewards of the relationships God has given them. Just as a steward cares for resources, we are called to care for the unity in our communities. This means taking responsibility for fostering peace, resolving conflicts, and prioritizing harmony. Unity is a key aspect of stewardship that glorifies God and enables the church to fulfill its mission.
• Living Out Faith: Unity is a reflection of the gospel in action. The world will know that we are Christ’s disciples by our love for one another (John 13:35). Practically, this means being intentional about relationships within the church—choosing forgiveness over grudges, grace over judgment, and reconciliation over division. When we live in unity, we reflect God’s kingdom on earth and point others to the hope that is found in Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. What steps can I take to promote unity in my church or family? Reflect on areas where there may be division or conflict. How can you be a peacemaker in those situations?
2. In what ways has unity brought blessings or challenges in your life? Consider how living in unity with others has affected your spiritual growth and relationships. What can you do to nurture or restore that unity?
3. How does Psalm 133 challenge me to live out the gospel in my daily relationships? Think about the relationships in your life. How can the example of unity in Psalm 133 inform how you interact with others, both within the church and in the broader community?
4. How can I better understand the connection between unity and eternal life as described in Psalm 133? Reflect on how the promise of eternal life and God’s blessing for unity shapes your view of unity as a present and future blessing. How does this impact your pursuit of peace and harmony in your relationships?
5. How can I actively cultivate a spirit of unity in my daily interactions with others, especially when disagreements arise? Reflect on how you can practice humility, patience, and understanding in your relationships. What specific steps can you take to be an instrument of peace, even in difficult or tense situations?
6. What does it mean for me to “live together in unity” as described in Psalm 133, and how can this contribute to the broader mission of the church? Think about your role in the church or your community. How can your efforts toward unity help advance the mission of the gospel and serve as a witness to those outside the faith?