Praising God
Psalm 117
Rev. Dr. Devadosan Surgirtharaj
Introduction
Do you know that Martin Luther wrote 63 pages of exegesis to this psalm? There are four important themes mentioned in the psalm. They are: Prophecy of the Gentiles participating in gospel blessings, Revelation of the heavenly and eternal kingdom of Christ, Instruction of salvation by grace through faith, and Admonition of praising God for the salvation.
A. Called ALL to praise.Psalm 117:1
- The psalmist invited the Gentiles to praise the Lord, as it was the intention of God from the beginning. It was the fulfillment of the blessings given to Abraham. Gen.12:3
- However, Jews always looked down on gentiles and had no desire to welcome them to worship the Lord because of their racial prejudice.
- The psalmist called upon all people to praise God intelligently, and he provided reasons why He is worthy of worship.
B. Reasons for praise. Psalm 117:2
- The first reason in this Psalm is God’s great merciful kindness. It emphasizes the idea of God’s loyalty. God’s greatness is understood as powerful.
- The second reason is God’s lovingkindness. His lovingkindness is shown to all Jewish and Gentile people together.
- The third reason is God’s truth. God is to be praised not only for His loyal love, but also for His truth. His ever-enduring truth means He will not change in His love and goodness to us.
Conclusion
Who can praise God? Why do we praise God? Psalm answers these questions. Praising God is not an exclusive privilege for some people but for all. It is the call. The reasons are that God is faithful, merciful, loving, kind, and truthful. Why do you praise God? In what ways do you praise God?