Psalm 96 is part of David’s “Song of Thanks” to the Lord, which he had Asaph and his brothers sing after the arrival of the Ark in Jerusalem.  The psalm is found virtually word for word in 1 Chronicles 16:23-33.  The rest of that song, in verses 8-22 is taken from Psalms 105 and 106.

Like the previous psalm, this one urges praise to the Lord in song, and does so three times in the first two verses.  The notable theme throughout the psalm is its inclusion of all nations – all people – in praising and making offerings to the one true God.  The entirety of the nations, all the people of the world, are included 9 times in these 13 verses as belonging to, and ruled by, the Creator of the world.  The Gentiles and all people are called on to worship “in the splendor of holiness” the God, who unlike their “worthless idols,” will judge the world in righteousness and according to His faithfulness.

It is a testimony to the fact that is illustrated throughout the Bible that God’s people were given custodial responsibility for God’s word, but all nations were always intended to receive it, and His name would be great in all the world (Malachi 1:11).

Read or listen to audio of ESV version of this selection from this link.

/Bob’s boy

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some images © V. Gilbert & Arlisle F. Beers

Please note: I did not design the reading plan that I am following in my blog.  All of my comments in this blog, however, are solely my responsibility.  When reading ANY commentary, you should ALWAYS refer first to the scripture, which is God’s unchanging and unfailing word. Reading schedules, as well as a link to the site where you can get the reading plan that I’m currently following for yourself can be found on the “Bible Reading Schedules” page of my website at http://graceofourlord.com.  For questions and help, please see the “FAQ” and “Summaries” pages there.