Psalm 117
A Universal Call to Praise
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Intro
Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Book of Psalms and, indeed, in the entire Bible. Though brief, its message is profound, serving as a universal call to all nations and peoples to praise the Lord for His steadfast love and faithfulness. This Psalm, in its concise manner, sets the stage for the New Testament teaching about the inclusion of all people in God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
Section 1: A Universal Invitation (Verse 1)
"Praise the LORD, all you nations!
Extol Him, all you peoples!"
Harmony
Paul cites Psalm 117:1 in Romans 15:11 as evidence that God's mercy is available to both Jews and Gentiles, underscoring the global scope of God's salvation in Christ.
Talking Points:
The Psalm's open invitation to every nation and people group, emphasizing God's universal dominion.
The use of imperative verbs "Praise" and "Extol," suggesting not just an invitation, but an urgent call.
The inclusive nature of God's kingdom, encompassing all of humanity.
Questions:
Why is it significant that all nations and peoples are called to praise the Lord?
How does this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of God's inclusivity?
In what ways can we as individuals heed this call to praise and extol the Lord?
Section 2: Reasons for Praise (Verse 2)
"For great is His loving devotion toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever."
Harmony
This affirmation of God's enduring love and faithfulness echoes throughout the New Testament. For instance, 1 John 4:9-10 describes God's great love manifested in sending His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Talking Points:
The immeasurable depth of God's steadfast love toward humanity.
The eternal nature of God's faithfulness, unchanging and ever-present.
The assurance we receive from recognizing and acknowledging these divine attributes.
Questions:
How have you personally experienced God's steadfast love?
In what situations have you seen the enduring faithfulness of the Lord?
How can reflecting on God's love and faithfulness shape our daily lives?
Summary
Psalm 117, viewed through the lens of the New Covenant in Christ, is a call to praise God for His enduring love and faithfulness, finding its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.
The psalmist's call for all nations to praise the Lord aligns with Jesus' Great Commission, which encourages us to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).
The psalmist's declaration of God's steadfast love points to Jesus as the embodiment of God's love, who gave His life for the salvation of the world (1 John 4:9-10, John 3:16).
The psalmist's affirmation that God's faithfulness endures forever reflects the eternal nature of Jesus, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
The psalmist's call to praise the Lord for His faithful love and enduring faithfulness corresponds to our gratitude for the sacrificial love and unwavering faithfulness displayed by Jesus (Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 12:2).
Ultimately, Psalm 117 leads us to Jesus as the universal Savior, the source of eternal love and faithfulness, inviting us to join in praising and glorifying His name among all nations.