Psalm 67:3

Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You.

Study Bible

Let the peoples
The term "peoples" in this context is derived from the Hebrew word "עַמִּים" (amim), which refers to nations or groups of people. This word emphasizes the inclusivity of God's call to worship, extending beyond Israel to encompass all nations. Historically, Israel was chosen to be a light to the Gentiles, and this verse prophetically anticipates the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 12:3). The use of "peoples" underscores the universal scope of God's redemptive plan, inviting every ethnic group to participate in the worship of the one true God.

praise You
The Hebrew root for "praise" is "יָדָה" (yadah), which means to give thanks or to confess. This form of praise is not merely an expression of admiration but a deep acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, goodness, and mercy. In the ancient Near Eastern context, praise was often associated with acknowledging the deeds and character of a deity. Here, the psalmist calls for a heartfelt recognition of God's mighty works and His righteous rule. This act of praise is both a duty and a delight, reflecting a relationship of gratitude and reverence towards God.

O God
The term "God" here is translated from the Hebrew "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a plural form that denotes majesty and power. Elohim is used throughout the Old Testament to refer to the Creator, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. This name emphasizes God's supreme authority and His role as the divine ruler over all creation. In the context of this psalm, invoking Elohim highlights the call for all peoples to recognize and submit to the one true God, who is above all other gods and idols.

let all the peoples
The repetition of "peoples" reinforces the universal call to worship. It is a poetic device that emphasizes the psalmist's desire for a global chorus of praise. This phrase suggests a vision of unity among diverse nations, all coming together to honor God. In the historical context, this was a radical idea, as nations often had their own deities and religious practices. The psalmist's vision anticipates the New Testament revelation of the Gospel being preached to all nations, fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

praise You
The repetition of "praise You" serves to emphasize the central theme of the psalm: the glorification of God by all peoples. This call to praise is not just a future hope but an imperative for the present. It reflects the psalmist's deep longing for God's name to be exalted universally. In the scriptural context, praise is both a response to God's revelation and a means through which His glory is made known among the nations. This verse invites believers to participate in God's mission by proclaiming His greatness and inviting others to join in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, God is the one to whom praise is directed. The psalm emphasizes His sovereignty and worthiness of worship from all peoples.

2. Peoples
This term refers to all nations and ethnic groups. The psalmist calls for universal praise, highlighting the inclusivity of God's call to worship.

3. Psalmist
The author of the psalm, traditionally attributed to King David, who expresses a desire for God's glory to be recognized by all nations.

4. Israel
While not mentioned directly in this verse, Israel is the context from which the psalmist writes, serving as a light to the nations.

5. Nations
The broader context of the psalm includes a vision for all nations to come to know and worship God, reflecting the missional aspect of Israel's calling.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
The psalm emphasizes that worship is not limited to a single nation or group but is a call for all humanity. This challenges believers to embrace a global perspective in their faith.

God's Sovereignty and Worthiness
The repeated call for praise underscores God's supreme authority and the inherent worthiness of His character, encouraging believers to prioritize worship in their lives.

Mission and Evangelism
The vision of all peoples praising God highlights the importance of mission work and sharing the gospel, as believers are called to participate in God's plan for global redemption.

Unity in Diversity
The inclusion of all peoples in worship points to the beauty of unity amidst diversity, encouraging the church to reflect this in its community and outreach efforts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call for all peoples to praise God in Psalm 67:3 challenge our understanding of worship within our local church context?

2. In what ways can we actively participate in God's mission to bring all nations to worship Him, as reflected in this psalm?

3. How does the vision of universal praise in Psalm 67:3 inspire us to engage with and appreciate cultural diversity within the body of Christ?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our worship is inclusive and reflective of God's heart for all peoples?

5. How do the promises made to Abraham in Genesis 12:3 and the vision in Revelation 7:9-10 deepen our understanding of Psalm 67:3's call for global praise?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that all peoples on earth will be blessed through him connects to the universal call for praise in Psalm 67:3.

Revelation 7:9-10
This passage describes a vision of a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne, echoing the call for all peoples to praise God.

Isaiah 49:6
The prophecy that Israel will be a light to the nations aligns with the psalmist's vision of global worship.