1 Chronicles 16:24

Declare His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all peoples.

Study Bible

Declare His glory
The word "declare" in Hebrew is "saphar," which means to recount, relate, or proclaim. This is a call to actively and intentionally make known the magnificence and splendor of God. In the context of 1 Chronicles, this declaration is not just a private acknowledgment but a public proclamation. The "glory" of God refers to His weightiness, honor, and majesty. Historically, the Israelites were surrounded by nations with their own gods and idols, and this verse calls them to stand apart by proclaiming the true God's unmatched glory.

among the nations
The phrase "among the nations" emphasizes the universal scope of God's glory. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "goyim," which often refers to the Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples. This is significant because it highlights the inclusivity of God's message and His desire for all people, not just Israel, to recognize His sovereignty. In a historical context, Israel was chosen to be a light to the nations, and this verse underscores their mission to spread the knowledge of God beyond their borders.

His wonderful deeds
The term "wonderful deeds" comes from the Hebrew word "niphla'oth," which refers to acts that are extraordinary and beyond human capability. These deeds are a testament to God's power and involvement in the world. In the context of 1 Chronicles, these deeds would include the miraculous events experienced by Israel, such as the Exodus, the conquest of Canaan, and God's continual provision and protection. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's active presence and His ability to perform wonders that defy human understanding.

to all peoples
The phrase "to all peoples" reiterates the universal call to share God's glory and deeds. The Hebrew word "amim" refers to people groups or tribes, emphasizing the diversity of humanity. This inclusivity is a precursor to the New Testament's Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations. Historically, this reflects God's consistent plan for salvation and revelation to extend to every corner of the earth, inviting all people to partake in His covenant and blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The king of Israel who organized the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and established worship practices, including the psalm of thanks from which this verse is taken.

2. Asaph and his brothers
Levites appointed by David to minister before the Ark of the LORD, giving thanks and praise to God. They played a key role in the worship practices of Israel.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence with His people. Its return to Jerusalem was a significant event in Israel's history.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the Ark was brought and where David established it as the center of worship for Israel.

5. The Nations
Refers to all the peoples outside of Israel, highlighting the universal scope of God's glory and deeds.

Teaching Points

The Universal Call to Worship
God's glory is not confined to Israel but is to be declared among all nations. This reflects God's heart for all people to know Him.

The Role of Testimony
Believers are called to share the wonderful deeds of God, both in their personal lives and in the grand account of Scripture.

The Importance of Worship in Community
As David organized worship in Jerusalem, believers today are encouraged to gather in community to declare God's glory.

Mission and Evangelism
This verse underscores the mission of the Church to reach out beyond its own community to the wider world.

God's Sovereignty and Majesty
Recognizing and declaring God's glory involves acknowledging His supreme power and authority over all creation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of 1 Chronicles 16:24 enhance our appreciation of its message?

2. In what ways can we declare God's glory among the nations in our daily lives?

3. How does the call to declare God's wonderful deeds challenge our understanding of mission and evangelism?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the themes of this verse into our worship practices today?

5. How do other scriptures, such as the Great Commission, reinforce the message of 1 Chronicles 16:24?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 96
This psalm closely parallels 1 Chronicles 16:23-33, emphasizing the call to declare God's glory among the nations.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, echoes the call to declare God's glory globally.

Acts 1:8
Jesus tells His disciples they will be His witnesses to the ends of the earth, reinforcing the theme of spreading God's glory among all peoples.