- Home
- Bible
- Psalms
- Chapter 96
- Verse 96
Psalms 96:1
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Call to the nation of Jahve to sing praise to its God and to evangelize the heathen. שׁירוּ is repeated three times. The new song assumes a new form of things, and the call thereto, a present which appeared to be a beginning that furnished a guarantee of this new state of things, a beginning viz., of the recognition of Jahve throughout the whole world of nations, and of His accession to the lordship over the whole earth. The new song is an echo of the approaching revelation of salvation and of glory, and this is also the inexhaustible material of the joyful tidings that go forth from day to day (מיּום ליום as in Est 3:7, whereas in the Chronicles it is מיום אל־יום as in Num 30:15). We read Psa 96:1 verbally the same in Isa 42:10; Psa 96:2 calls to mind Isa 52:7; Isa 60:6; and Psa 96:3, Isa 66:19.
John Gill Bible Commentary
O sing unto the Lord a new song,.... A famous excellent one, suited to Gospel times, on account of the new benefit and blessing of redemption and salvation lately obtained by the Messiah; which should be sung to him, who is the Lord or Jehovah here designed, by all the redeemed ones, Rev 5:9; see Gill on Psa 33:3, the Targum adds, "sing, ye angels on high:'' sing unto the Lord all the earth: not the whole land of Israel only, as Aben Ezra interprets it; though here the Saviour first appeared, taught his doctrines, wrought his miracles, suffered, and died for the salvation of his people; here the angels first begun the new song; and here those that believed in him first expressed that spiritual joy which afterwards spread through the whole world, and who are here called upon to sing; namely, all those that are redeemed from among men, throughout all the earth: believing Gentiles are here intended: the Targum is, "sing before the Lord, all ye righteous of the earth.''
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These verses will be best expounded by pious and devout affections working in our souls towards God, with a high veneration for his majesty and transcendent excellency. The call here given us to praise God is very lively, the expressions are raised and repeated, to all which the echo of a thankful heart should make agreeable returns. I. We are here required to honour God, 1. With songs, Psa 96:1, Psa 96:2. Three times we are here called to sing unto the Lord; sing to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, when the morning stars sang together, is now, in the church militant, and ever shall be, in the church triumphant. We have reason to do it often, and we have need to be often reminded of it, and stirred up to it. Sing unto the Lord, that is, "Bless his name, speak well of him, that you may bring others to think well of him." (1.) Sing a new song, an excellent song, the product of new affections, clothed with new expressions. We speak of nothing more despicable than "an old song," but the newness of a song recommends it; for there we expect something surprising. A new song is a song for new favours, for those compassions which are new every morning. A new song is New Testament song, a song of praise for the new covenant and the precious privileges of that covenant. A new song is a song that shall be ever new, and shall never wax old nor vanish away; it is an everlasting song, that shall never be antiquated or out of date. (2.) Let all the earth sing this song, not the Jews only, to whom hitherto the service of God had been appropriated, who could not sing the Lord's song in (would not sing it to) a strange land; but let all the earth, all that are redeemed from the earth, learn and sing this new song, Rev 14:3. This is a prophecy of the calling of the Gentiles; all the earth shall have this new song put into their mouths, shall have both cause and call to sing it. (3.) Let the subject-matter of this song be his salvation, the great salvation which was to be wrought out by the Lord Jesus; that must be shown forth as the cause of this joy and praise. (4.) Let this song be sung constantly, not only in the times appointed for the solemn feasts, but from day to day; it is a subject that can never be exhausted. Let day unto day utter this speech, that, under the influence of gospel devotions, we may daily exemplify a gospel conversation. 2. With sermons (Psa 96:3): Declare his glory among the heathen, even his wonders among all people. (1.) Salvation by Christ is here spoken of as a work of wonder, and that in which the glory of God shines very brightly; in showing forth that salvation we declare God's glory as it shines in the face of Christ. (2.) This salvation was, in the Old Testament times, as heaven's happiness is now, a glory to be revealed; but in the fulness of time it was declared, and a full discovery made of that, even to babes, which prophets and kings desired and wished to see and might not. (3.) What was then discovered was declared only among the Jews, but it is now declared among the heathen, among all people; the nations which long sat in darkness now see this great light. The apostles' commission to preach the gospel to every creature is copied from this: Declare his glory among the heathen. 3. With religious services, Psa 96:7-9. Hitherto, though in every nation those that feared God and wrought righteousness were accepted of him, yet instituted ordinances were the peculiarities of the Jewish religion; but, in gospel-times, the kindreds of the people shall be invited and admitted into the service of God and be as welcome as ever the Jews were. The court of the Gentiles shall no longer be an outward court, but shall be laid in common with the court of Israel. All the earth is here summoned to fear before the Lord, to worship him according to his appointment. In every place incense shall be offered to his name, Mal 1:11; Zac 14:17; Isa 66:23. This indeed spoke mortification to the Jews, but, withal, it gave a prospect of that which would redound very much to the glory of God and to the happiness of mankind. Now observe how the acts of devotion to God are here described. (1.) We must give unto the Lord; not as if God needed any thing, or could receive any thing, from us or any creature, which was not his own before, much less be benefited by it; but we must in our best affections, adorations, and services, return to him what we have received from him, and do it freely, as what we give; for God loves a cheerful giver. It is debt, it is rent, it is tribute, it is what must be paid, and, if not, will be recovered, and yet, if it come from holy love, God is pleased to accept it as a gift. (2.) We must acknowledge God to be the sovereign Lord and pay homage to him accordingly (Psa 96:7): Give unto the Lord glory and strength, glory and empire, or dominion, so some. As a king, he is clothed with robes of glory and girt with the girdle of power, and we must subscribe to both. Thine is the kingdom, and therefore thine is the power and the glory. "Give the glory to God; do not take it to yourselves, nor give it to any creature." (3.) We must give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name, that is, to the discovery he has been pleased to make of himself to the children of men. In all the acts of religious worship this is that which we must aim at, to honour God, to pay him some of that reverence which we owe him as the best of beings and the fountain of our being. (4.) We must bring an offering into his courts. We must bring ourselves, in the first place, the offering up of the Gentiles, Rom 15:16. We must offer up the sacrifices of praise continually (Heb 13:15), must often appear before God in public worship and never appear before him empty. (5.) We must worship him in the beauty of holiness, in the solemn assembly where divine institutions are religiously observed, the beauty of which is their holiness, that is, their conformity to the rule. We must worship him with holy hearts, sanctified by the grace of God, devoted to the glory of God, and purified from the pollutions of sin. (6.) We must fear before him; all the acts of worship must be performed from a principle of the fear of God and with a holy awe and reverence. II. In the midst of these calls to praise God and give glory to him glorious things are here said of him, both as motives to praise and matter of praise: The Lord is great, and therefore greatly to be praised (Psa 96:4) and to be feared, great and honourable to his attendants, great and terrible to his adversaries. Even the new song proclaims God great as well as good; for his goodness is his glory; and, when the everlasting gospel is preached, it is this, Fear God, and give glory to him, Rev 14:6, Rev 14:7. 1. He is great in his sovereignty over all that pretend to be deities; none dare vie with him: He is to be feared above all gods - all princes, who were often deified after their deaths, and even while they lived were adored as petty gods - or rather all idols, the gods of the nations Psa 96:5. All the earth being called to sing the new song, they must be convinced that the Lord Jehovah, to whose honour they must sing it, is the one only living and true God, infinitely above all rivals and pretenders; he is great, and they are little; he is all, and they are nothing; so the word used for idols signifies, for we know that an idol is nothing in the world, Co1 8:4. 2. He is great in his right, even to the noblest part of the creation; for it is his own work and derives its being from him: The Lord made the heavens and all their hosts; they are the work of his fingers (Psa 8:3), so nicely, so curiously, are they made. The gods of the nations were all made - gods, the creatures of men's fancies; but our God is the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, those lights of heaven, which they imagined to be gods and worshipped as such. 3. He is great in the manifestation of his glory both in the upper and lower world, among his angels in heaven and his saints on earth (Psa 96:6): Splendour and majesty are before him, in his immediate presence above, where the angels cover their faces, as unable to bear the dazzling lustre of his glory. Strength and beauty are in his sanctuary, both that above and this below. In God there is every thing that is awful and yet every thing that is amiable. If we attend him in his sanctuary, we shall behold his beauty, for God is love, and experience his strength, for he is our rock. Let us therefore go forth in his strength, enamoured with his beauty.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 96 This psalm establishes the Lord’s universal kingship (see Ps 93) and prepares for the coming of the Lord to bring justice and righteousness into the world. The psalmist invites everyone to worship the Lord (96:1-3), the glorious Creator of all the earth (96:4-6), because worship is due to him alone (96:7-9). The universe joins in praise as the righteous Judge establishes a new order (96:10-13). • This psalm (along with 105:1-15; 106:1, 47-48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chr 16:1-43. 96:1 Three psalms open with the exhortation to sing a new song (Pss 96, 98, 149); the song celebrates the Lord’s universal kingship (see 33:3).
Psalms 96:1
Sing to the LORD, All the Earth
1Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. 2Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim His salvation day after day.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
God Is Doing a New Thing in His Church
By David Wilkerson5.7K54:34ChurchEXO 20:3NUM 6:22PSA 96:1ISA 42:8MAT 6:33MAT 23:37In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God and seeking Him with hunger and passion. He warns against allowing apathy and lukewarmness to enter our hearts and homes, as it can hinder the work of God. The preacher encourages the congregation to prostrate themselves before God and seek His face, as He is doing a new thing in His church. The sermon references Isaiah 42, where God declares that He will not share His glory with anyone else and that He will bring forth new things.
Habitation!
By Leonard Ravenhill3.2K51:59PSA 96:1PSA 100:4MAT 6:33MAT 17:21JHN 1:1ACT 2:4ACT 3:8ACT 4:18EPH 1:17EPH 3:201TI 2:1JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker discusses the structure of a church service and the different elements that make up the first three hours and the second three hours. The first three hours are dedicated to praise, adoration, and thanksgiving, while the second three hours focus on preparation, supplication, and intercession. The speaker emphasizes the importance of each individual's contribution to the service, whether it be through singing a psalm or hymn, sharing a personal experience, or gaining new insights from the Word of God. The sermon also touches on the concept of abiding in Christ and the need for Christians to seek help and support from their Heavenly Father.
Living on Purpose
By David Smith1.9K34:34Glory Of GodPSA 96:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life that brings glory to God. He encourages young people to move beyond seeking personal pleasure and instead focus on serving Christ. The sermon references John chapter 12, where certain Greeks express their desire to see Jesus. The speaker also highlights the objective work of the cross, emphasizing that our salvation is not based on our own actions, but on what Jesus has done for us. The sermon concludes by referencing Isaiah 53, which speaks of the sacrifice of Jesus for our redemption.
Walk of the New Man 03
By Rick Bovey1.7K30:23New ManPSA 96:1PSA 100:11CO 12:12EPH 1:3EPH 4:7EPH 4:12In this sermon, the speaker breaks down the passage into three parts. He begins by discussing the growth stages of children and relates it to the spiritual growth of believers. He then mentions the upcoming arrival of a minister and expresses excitement about it. The speaker goes on to explain that the sermon will focus on Ephesians chapters 4, 5, and part of chapter 6. He emphasizes the importance of unity, diversity, and edification in the body of Christ, and how believers should reflect the character of Jesus.
O Taste and See That the Lord Is Good
By Carter Conlon1.6K25:06ExperiencePSA 96:1MAT 6:331CO 2:9REV 21:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the promise and potential that we all have when we start out in life. He acknowledges that there are times when we may feel hopeless and question the purpose of our existence. The speaker shares the story of a young man who found himself in a foreign place, feeling overwhelmed by the challenges he faced. However, the speaker reassures the audience that through the cross of Calvary, Jesus Christ has provided a way for us to overcome sin, death, and despair. He encourages the listeners to embrace the truth of the gospel and experience the abundant life that God offers.
Church History - Session 4 (Fullfillment (Cont'd))
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.4K34:22PSA 96:1JHN 1:29JHN 20:22REV 2:1REV 4:11REV 5:6REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the vision of John in the book of Revelation. He describes how John saw heavenly figures and the glory of God on the throne. However, there was something missing that could satisfy John's heart and open up the future of the church. Then, John sees a lamb as it had been slain in the midst of the throne, symbolizing Jesus. The preacher emphasizes the significance of Jesus in the New Testament and how he is closer to believers than breathing or hands and feet. The sermon also highlights the importance of praising Jesus and having a new song in our hearts. The preacher further explains how the Old Testament and New Testament are connected, with Jesus being the central focus.
Quiet Time - an Appointment With God
By Peter Axup1.3K1:02:48Quiet TimePSA 33:2PSA 96:1PSA 98:4MRK 1:32In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being aware of our actions and habits. He encourages keeping a log to understand how we spend our time and make necessary changes. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of worship and suggests singing songs and playing instruments as a way to praise God. He then transitions to discussing the book of Mark, specifically chapter one, and suggests breaking up Bible reading into manageable sections. The sermon concludes with a mention of a book on one-on-one discipleship and the speaker's upcoming trip to Brazil.
Keeping the Missions Flame Alive
By John Piper1.3K04:23PSA 96:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining the flame for missions ignited during a conference by focusing on four key aspects: recognizing the greatness of God, viewing missions as spreading God's glory, centering on His salvation through Jesus Christ, and expressing joy through singing praises to the Lord.
Sing the New Song—part 1
By John D. Martin9851:21:48PSA 33:3PSA 40:3PSA 96:1PSA 98:1PSA 144:9MAT 6:33In this sermon, the importance of music in worship is emphasized. The speaker recounts the story of Joshua and the Levites, who sang before going into battle and witnessed God's victory. The sermon also mentions the songs of Moses, which contained both praise and judgment. The speaker emphasizes the need for songs with meaningful content and encourages believers to sing with the understanding of God's goodness and mercy.
(The Royal Psalms) Part 1
By Ed Miller94956:06PSA 92:1PSA 93:1PSA 93:3PSA 94:1PSA 95:1PSA 96:1LUK 19:41In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding the kingship of Christ as the foundation for our faith. He emphasizes that every person must begin with the basic truth that the Lord reigns and has absolute authority. Despite the troubles and opposition we may face, God's throne cannot be contradicted. The speaker encourages listeners to trust in God's sovereignty and to sing songs of rest, victory, and service as they grasp the three glories revealed in the Psalms.
Debate: Protestant Antidote to Modern Disunity (2/5) Protestant Fundamentals of Separation and Unity
By Greg Barrow8491:24:02PSA 96:1MAT 6:33ACT 8:37ROM 14:11TI 3:8In this sermon transcript, the speaker addresses the issue of requiring historical testimony as a term of communion for ministers, elders, deacons, and probationers in the Reformation Presbyterian Church. The speaker points out the hypocrisy of Mr. Bacon, who demands historical testimony from his officers while excluding his congregation from the same standard. The speaker also highlights the inconsistency in Mr. Bacon's argument, as he criticizes faithful covenanters for practicing the same principle. The speaker defends the practice of requiring understanding and agreement with the doctrines before admitting someone to the Lord's table, emphasizing the importance of comparing teachings to the word of God.
My Testimony: How I Became a Christian
By George Verwer65642:29TestimonyPSA 95:5PSA 96:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to worship together and read from the book of John, specifically chapter 3. The speaker shares how these verses had a profound impact on their life and emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus personally rather than relying on religion. They highlight the power of Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection, and invite the audience to respond to this message. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about being woken up by a monk for church, illustrating the importance of being alert and ready for worship.
Psalm 96
By Theron Young42744:33PsalmsPSA 96:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the great things that the Lord has done for us and the potential for effective evangelism. The psalmist in Psalm 96 invites the whole world, including families, to ascribe glory and strength to the Lord. The use of music as an evangelistic tool is highlighted, as it can attract people and express the work of the Lord. The speaker also emphasizes that the Lord deserves to be praised, as all other gods are mere idols.
A Certain Portion Should Be for the Singers.
By F.B. Meyer0The Role of WorshipValue of EncouragementNEH 11:23PSA 96:1PSA 100:1COL 3:16F.B. Meyer emphasizes the vital role of singers in the community, as they uplift and inspire others through their music, even if their contributions seem less tangible than those of laborers. He illustrates that every individual, regardless of their perceived usefulness, has a significant part to play in God's creation, providing hope and encouragement to those around them. Meyer encourages those who feel inadequate to recognize their value in bringing joy and comfort, asserting that God ensures they receive their due support for their contributions.
Of Singing Psalms.
By John Gill0WorshipSinging PsalmsEXO 15:1PSA 66:1PSA 96:1ISA 52:7MAT 26:30ACT 16:25EPH 5:19COL 3:16JAS 5:13REV 5:9John Gill emphasizes the significance of singing psalms as a vital aspect of public worship, distinguishing it from prayer, giving thanks, and praising God. He argues that singing is a natural and spiritual act that has been practiced throughout history, both by the faithful and even by those outside the faith. Gill highlights that singing should be done with sincerity, understanding, and in a manner that glorifies God, while also addressing common objections to the practice. He asserts that singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs is not only a command but a moral duty for all believers, regardless of their circumstances. Ultimately, Gill encourages the church to embrace this form of worship as a means of expressing joy and gratitude to God.
Singers of the Eighteenth Century
By Paxton Hood0PSA 40:3PSA 71:23PSA 96:1PSA 149:1EPH 5:19COL 3:16Paxton Hood delves into the significance of sacred songs in the Christian faith, particularly during the Eighteenth century revival, where Isaac Watts and Phillip Doddridge introduced popular sacred melodies, with Watts being hailed as the creator of the English hymn. John and Charles Wesley played a crucial role in translating and improving hymns from the Moravian community, providing new songs of praise that resonated with the passionate spiritual experiences of the revival. Other notable lyricists like Thomas Olivers, Augustus Toplady, and John Cennick made important contributions to the hymns of the revival, creating a spirit of sacred song that was boldly evangelical and deeply devotional.
Psalms 96 - Bringing the Future Into the Present
By Art Katz0EschatologyHope in ChristPSA 96:1Art Katz emphasizes the prophetic nature of Psalms 96, portraying it as a celebration of the future fulfillment of God's promises where all nations will rejoice and worship Him. He encourages believers to live in anticipation of this future, which can uplift spirits and dispel negativity in the present. Katz highlights the coming of the Lord as a pivotal event that will bring perfect justice and equity, eliminating racial enmity and restoring creation to its intended harmony. He calls for a new song of praise that reflects God's current work in our lives, reminding us that our faith is dynamic and rooted in the hope of the future. This anticipation should inspire us to live out God's righteousness now, as we await His glorious return.
Methodist Hymnology Anticipates the Fullness of the Blessing
By Bishop W. F. Mallalieu0PSA 51:10PSA 95:1PSA 96:1JHN 4:23ACT 16:25EPH 3:17EPH 5:19COL 3:161TH 5:16REV 5:9Bishop W. F. Mallalieu reflects on the profound impact of the hymns of Methodism, particularly those by the Wesleys, which express a wide range of Christian experiences and emotions. He emphasizes the theological depth, Biblical accuracy, and experiential nature of the hymns, highlighting the Wesleys' exceptional intellectual and spiritual journey towards salvation and sanctification. Mallalieu underscores the hymns' ability to inspire, comfort, and guide believers in their pursuit of a deeper relationship with God, pointing out their unmatched quality and relevance in nurturing faith and Christian growth.
Exposition on Psalm 97
By St. Augustine0PSA 96:1PSA 96:3JHN 9:39ACT 14:14ROM 10:4EPH 2:20St. Augustine preaches about the importance of staying rooted in Christ to understand the Scriptures correctly, emphasizing the need to fix our understanding on Him to avoid uncertainty and doubt. He delves into the resurrection of the flesh symbolized by the earth restored, highlighting the joy in the restoration brought by Christ's resurrection. St. Augustine reflects on the preaching of the word of God reaching all corners of the earth, symbolized by the isles, and the steadfastness of the Church amidst persecutions. He explores the concepts of righteousness, judgment, and the temporal punishment of the ungodly, contrasting it with the fire of salvation for the redeemed.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Call to the nation of Jahve to sing praise to its God and to evangelize the heathen. שׁירוּ is repeated three times. The new song assumes a new form of things, and the call thereto, a present which appeared to be a beginning that furnished a guarantee of this new state of things, a beginning viz., of the recognition of Jahve throughout the whole world of nations, and of His accession to the lordship over the whole earth. The new song is an echo of the approaching revelation of salvation and of glory, and this is also the inexhaustible material of the joyful tidings that go forth from day to day (מיּום ליום as in Est 3:7, whereas in the Chronicles it is מיום אל־יום as in Num 30:15). We read Psa 96:1 verbally the same in Isa 42:10; Psa 96:2 calls to mind Isa 52:7; Isa 60:6; and Psa 96:3, Isa 66:19.
John Gill Bible Commentary
O sing unto the Lord a new song,.... A famous excellent one, suited to Gospel times, on account of the new benefit and blessing of redemption and salvation lately obtained by the Messiah; which should be sung to him, who is the Lord or Jehovah here designed, by all the redeemed ones, Rev 5:9; see Gill on Psa 33:3, the Targum adds, "sing, ye angels on high:'' sing unto the Lord all the earth: not the whole land of Israel only, as Aben Ezra interprets it; though here the Saviour first appeared, taught his doctrines, wrought his miracles, suffered, and died for the salvation of his people; here the angels first begun the new song; and here those that believed in him first expressed that spiritual joy which afterwards spread through the whole world, and who are here called upon to sing; namely, all those that are redeemed from among men, throughout all the earth: believing Gentiles are here intended: the Targum is, "sing before the Lord, all ye righteous of the earth.''
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These verses will be best expounded by pious and devout affections working in our souls towards God, with a high veneration for his majesty and transcendent excellency. The call here given us to praise God is very lively, the expressions are raised and repeated, to all which the echo of a thankful heart should make agreeable returns. I. We are here required to honour God, 1. With songs, Psa 96:1, Psa 96:2. Three times we are here called to sing unto the Lord; sing to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Ghost, as it was in the beginning, when the morning stars sang together, is now, in the church militant, and ever shall be, in the church triumphant. We have reason to do it often, and we have need to be often reminded of it, and stirred up to it. Sing unto the Lord, that is, "Bless his name, speak well of him, that you may bring others to think well of him." (1.) Sing a new song, an excellent song, the product of new affections, clothed with new expressions. We speak of nothing more despicable than "an old song," but the newness of a song recommends it; for there we expect something surprising. A new song is a song for new favours, for those compassions which are new every morning. A new song is New Testament song, a song of praise for the new covenant and the precious privileges of that covenant. A new song is a song that shall be ever new, and shall never wax old nor vanish away; it is an everlasting song, that shall never be antiquated or out of date. (2.) Let all the earth sing this song, not the Jews only, to whom hitherto the service of God had been appropriated, who could not sing the Lord's song in (would not sing it to) a strange land; but let all the earth, all that are redeemed from the earth, learn and sing this new song, Rev 14:3. This is a prophecy of the calling of the Gentiles; all the earth shall have this new song put into their mouths, shall have both cause and call to sing it. (3.) Let the subject-matter of this song be his salvation, the great salvation which was to be wrought out by the Lord Jesus; that must be shown forth as the cause of this joy and praise. (4.) Let this song be sung constantly, not only in the times appointed for the solemn feasts, but from day to day; it is a subject that can never be exhausted. Let day unto day utter this speech, that, under the influence of gospel devotions, we may daily exemplify a gospel conversation. 2. With sermons (Psa 96:3): Declare his glory among the heathen, even his wonders among all people. (1.) Salvation by Christ is here spoken of as a work of wonder, and that in which the glory of God shines very brightly; in showing forth that salvation we declare God's glory as it shines in the face of Christ. (2.) This salvation was, in the Old Testament times, as heaven's happiness is now, a glory to be revealed; but in the fulness of time it was declared, and a full discovery made of that, even to babes, which prophets and kings desired and wished to see and might not. (3.) What was then discovered was declared only among the Jews, but it is now declared among the heathen, among all people; the nations which long sat in darkness now see this great light. The apostles' commission to preach the gospel to every creature is copied from this: Declare his glory among the heathen. 3. With religious services, Psa 96:7-9. Hitherto, though in every nation those that feared God and wrought righteousness were accepted of him, yet instituted ordinances were the peculiarities of the Jewish religion; but, in gospel-times, the kindreds of the people shall be invited and admitted into the service of God and be as welcome as ever the Jews were. The court of the Gentiles shall no longer be an outward court, but shall be laid in common with the court of Israel. All the earth is here summoned to fear before the Lord, to worship him according to his appointment. In every place incense shall be offered to his name, Mal 1:11; Zac 14:17; Isa 66:23. This indeed spoke mortification to the Jews, but, withal, it gave a prospect of that which would redound very much to the glory of God and to the happiness of mankind. Now observe how the acts of devotion to God are here described. (1.) We must give unto the Lord; not as if God needed any thing, or could receive any thing, from us or any creature, which was not his own before, much less be benefited by it; but we must in our best affections, adorations, and services, return to him what we have received from him, and do it freely, as what we give; for God loves a cheerful giver. It is debt, it is rent, it is tribute, it is what must be paid, and, if not, will be recovered, and yet, if it come from holy love, God is pleased to accept it as a gift. (2.) We must acknowledge God to be the sovereign Lord and pay homage to him accordingly (Psa 96:7): Give unto the Lord glory and strength, glory and empire, or dominion, so some. As a king, he is clothed with robes of glory and girt with the girdle of power, and we must subscribe to both. Thine is the kingdom, and therefore thine is the power and the glory. "Give the glory to God; do not take it to yourselves, nor give it to any creature." (3.) We must give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name, that is, to the discovery he has been pleased to make of himself to the children of men. In all the acts of religious worship this is that which we must aim at, to honour God, to pay him some of that reverence which we owe him as the best of beings and the fountain of our being. (4.) We must bring an offering into his courts. We must bring ourselves, in the first place, the offering up of the Gentiles, Rom 15:16. We must offer up the sacrifices of praise continually (Heb 13:15), must often appear before God in public worship and never appear before him empty. (5.) We must worship him in the beauty of holiness, in the solemn assembly where divine institutions are religiously observed, the beauty of which is their holiness, that is, their conformity to the rule. We must worship him with holy hearts, sanctified by the grace of God, devoted to the glory of God, and purified from the pollutions of sin. (6.) We must fear before him; all the acts of worship must be performed from a principle of the fear of God and with a holy awe and reverence. II. In the midst of these calls to praise God and give glory to him glorious things are here said of him, both as motives to praise and matter of praise: The Lord is great, and therefore greatly to be praised (Psa 96:4) and to be feared, great and honourable to his attendants, great and terrible to his adversaries. Even the new song proclaims God great as well as good; for his goodness is his glory; and, when the everlasting gospel is preached, it is this, Fear God, and give glory to him, Rev 14:6, Rev 14:7. 1. He is great in his sovereignty over all that pretend to be deities; none dare vie with him: He is to be feared above all gods - all princes, who were often deified after their deaths, and even while they lived were adored as petty gods - or rather all idols, the gods of the nations Psa 96:5. All the earth being called to sing the new song, they must be convinced that the Lord Jehovah, to whose honour they must sing it, is the one only living and true God, infinitely above all rivals and pretenders; he is great, and they are little; he is all, and they are nothing; so the word used for idols signifies, for we know that an idol is nothing in the world, Co1 8:4. 2. He is great in his right, even to the noblest part of the creation; for it is his own work and derives its being from him: The Lord made the heavens and all their hosts; they are the work of his fingers (Psa 8:3), so nicely, so curiously, are they made. The gods of the nations were all made - gods, the creatures of men's fancies; but our God is the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, those lights of heaven, which they imagined to be gods and worshipped as such. 3. He is great in the manifestation of his glory both in the upper and lower world, among his angels in heaven and his saints on earth (Psa 96:6): Splendour and majesty are before him, in his immediate presence above, where the angels cover their faces, as unable to bear the dazzling lustre of his glory. Strength and beauty are in his sanctuary, both that above and this below. In God there is every thing that is awful and yet every thing that is amiable. If we attend him in his sanctuary, we shall behold his beauty, for God is love, and experience his strength, for he is our rock. Let us therefore go forth in his strength, enamoured with his beauty.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 96 This psalm establishes the Lord’s universal kingship (see Ps 93) and prepares for the coming of the Lord to bring justice and righteousness into the world. The psalmist invites everyone to worship the Lord (96:1-3), the glorious Creator of all the earth (96:4-6), because worship is due to him alone (96:7-9). The universe joins in praise as the righteous Judge establishes a new order (96:10-13). • This psalm (along with 105:1-15; 106:1, 47-48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chr 16:1-43. 96:1 Three psalms open with the exhortation to sing a new song (Pss 96, 98, 149); the song celebrates the Lord’s universal kingship (see 33:3).