1 Chronicles 16:28

Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

Study Bible

Ascribe to the LORD
The Hebrew word for "ascribe" is "yahab," which means to give or to attribute. In this context, it is a call to recognize and declare the inherent qualities of God. This phrase is an invitation to acknowledge God's sovereignty and majesty. The act of ascribing is not merely a verbal acknowledgment but a heartfelt recognition of God's supreme authority and power. It is a call to worship that transcends mere ritual, inviting believers to engage in a deep, personal relationship with the Creator.

O families of the nations
The term "families" here is translated from the Hebrew word "mishpachot," which refers to clans or extended family groups. This phrase emphasizes the universal call to worship God, extending beyond the nation of Israel to include all peoples and ethnic groups. It reflects the biblical theme of God's desire for all nations to come to know Him, as seen in the Abrahamic covenant where God promises that all families of the earth will be blessed through Abraham (Genesis 12:3). This inclusivity underscores the global mission of the Church to spread the Gospel to every corner of the earth.

ascribe to the LORD glory and strength
The repetition of "ascribe" reinforces the importance of recognizing God's attributes. "Glory" in Hebrew is "kabod," which signifies weightiness or honor. It is a recognition of God's majestic presence and His worthiness of all praise. "Strength," or "oz" in Hebrew, denotes power and might. Together, these attributes highlight God's unparalleled nature as both glorious and mighty. This call to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD is a reminder of His omnipotence and the reverence due to Him. It encourages believers to live in a way that reflects His glory and to rely on His strength in all circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The king of Israel who organized the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and led the people in worship and thanksgiving to God.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, represented by the families of the tribes, who are called to worship and honor God.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God's presence with His people.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the Ark was brought, becoming the central place of worship for Israel.

5. The Nations
Refers to all peoples outside of Israel, indicating the universal call to worship God.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
The call to "ascribe to the LORD" is not limited to Israel but extends to all families of the nations. This highlights the inclusivity of God's invitation to worship.

Recognition of God's Attributes
The terms "glory" and "strength" in the original Hebrew ('kabod' and 'oz') emphasize God's majestic presence and power. Believers are encouraged to recognize and declare these attributes in their worship.

Corporate Worship
The communal aspect of worship is emphasized, as families and nations are called together to honor God. This underscores the importance of gathering as a community to worship.

Response to God's Presence
Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence, believers today are called to respond to God's presence in their lives with reverence and praise.

Mission and Evangelism
The inclusion of "families of the nations" points to the mission of the church to spread the message of God's glory to all peoples, encouraging believers to engage in evangelism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to "ascribe to the LORD" in 1 Chronicles 16:28 challenge our personal and communal worship practices today?

2. In what ways can we, as individuals and as a church, recognize and declare God's glory and strength in our daily lives?

3. How does the inclusion of "families of the nations" in this verse inform our understanding of God's plan for all people?

4. What are some practical ways we can engage in corporate worship that reflects the communal call to honor God?

5. How can the themes of this verse inspire us to participate in mission and evangelism in our local and global communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 96:7-8
This passage echoes the call to ascribe glory to the Lord, emphasizing the universal nature of worship.

Revelation 5:13
Illustrates the ultimate fulfillment of all creation ascribing glory and honor to God.

Isaiah 42:12
Calls for the proclamation of God's glory among the nations, reinforcing the theme of universal worship.