◄ Psalm 117 ►
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Extol Him, All You Peoples 1Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol Him, all you peoples!a 2For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Hallelujah!b Footnotes: 1 a Cited in Romans 15:11 2 b Or Hallelu YAH, meaning Praise the LORD Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 117 Summary Extol Him, All You Peoples Verse 1 – Global Call to Praise Psalm 117 opens with a sweeping invitation: “Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol Him, all you peoples!” (v. 1). Every ethnic group is summoned, showing God’s plan has always spanned the whole earth. Verse 2 – Grounds for Praise Verse 2 explains why universal praise is fitting: “For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Hallelujah!” God’s covenant love is immeasurable; His reliability never expires. Psalm 117, although short, is rich in its powerful call for all nations and all people to praise the Lord for His steadfast love and faithfulness. It is an universal call to worship that transcends national, ethnic, and social boundaries, emphasizing the unity of all under God's grace and faithfulness. Despite being the shortest chapter in the entire Bible, its message is potent and far-reaching. Historical Setting • One of the Hallel psalms (113–118) sung during Passover and other festivals. • Likely composed after Israel recognized God’s mercy in a specific deliverance, yet its brevity makes it timeless. • The call to “all nations” anticipates the promise to Abraham that “all the families of the earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3). Literary Features • Shortest chapter in Scripture—2 verses, 17 Hebrew words—yet packed with sweeping scope. • Parallelism: “nations/peoples,” “loving devotion/faithfulness,” amplifies the message by restating with fresh wording. • Inclusio: Begins with “Praise the LORD” and ends with “Hallelujah” (Hebrew halĕlû-Yah, “Praise Yah”), bracketing everything in worship. Key Hebrew Words • ḥesed – “loving devotion,” a steadfast, loyal love tied to covenant. • ’ĕmet – “faithfulness,” firmness, truth. Together they present God as both affectionate and reliable. Theological Emphasis 1. Universality: God’s grace is not tribal (Jonah 4:11; Romans 15:11). 2. Covenant Love: Same love shown in Exodus 34:6–7, continued in Christ (John 1:14). 3. Endless Faithfulness: Ties to Lamentations 3:22–23; Revelation 19:11 calls Jesus “Faithful and True.” Connections to the Old Testament • Isaiah 42:6 & 49:6 – Israel as “a light for the nations.” • 1 Chronicles 16:31 – “Let the nations say, ‘The LORD reigns!’” echoes the same theme. • Psalm 98:3 – “All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.” Connections to the New Testament • Romans 15:11 quotes verse 1 to defend Gentile inclusion. Paul places it among multiple OT proofs that Christ fulfills God’s worldwide plan. • Mark 14:26 – Jesus and His disciples likely sang Psalm 117 during the Passover Hallel before Gethsemane, linking the psalm to the cross. • Revelation 7:9–10 pictures the nations actually responding, fulfilling the invitation of Psalm 117. Use in Jewish and Christian Worship • Sung during Passover, Tabernacles, Hanukkah. • Early church incorporated it into liturgy; many modern hymns paraphrase its call. • Ideal for missionary focus services, reminding believers of God’s global heart. Archaeological Insights • No direct artifacts from Psalm 117, yet synagogue inscriptions in Greek and Aramaic found across the Roman world show Jews already scattering this universal message. • First-century ossuaries inscribed with “Yah” affirm the widespread reverence for God’s covenant name appearing in “Hallelujah.” Practical Application • Personal: Celebrate God’s unwavering love daily; His faithfulness outlasts moods and seasons. • Corporate: Local churches should mirror the multiethnic vision—welcome, pray for, and send to every people group. • Evangelistic: The psalm supplies a concise gospel outline—God’s love is great, His faithfulness forever; therefore respond with praise. Summary Thought Psalm 117 may be small, yet it stretches from Israel’s festival tables to the ends of the earth and from the exodus to eternity. In two verses it calls everyone, for all time, to praise the One whose love is vast and whose word never fails. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 15:11 And again: 'Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and sing praises to Him, all you peoples.' Isaiah 56:7 These I will bring to My holy mountain and give them joy in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; for My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations. Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! Teaching Points Universal Call to Worship Psalm 117 invites all nations and peoples to praise the Lord, emphasizing that God's love and faithfulness are not limited to Israel but extend to all humanity. God's Loving Devotion The psalm highlights the greatness of God's loving devotion, which is steadfast and unwavering. This love is a central theme throughout Scripture, demonstrating God's commitment to His creation. Enduring Faithfulness The faithfulness of the Lord is eternal, providing believers with assurance and hope. God's promises are reliable and unchanging, offering a foundation for our faith. Simplicity and Depth Despite its brevity, Psalm 117 encapsulates the essence of worship and the reasons for it, reminding us that true worship is rooted in recognizing God's attributes. Practical Applications Embrace Inclusivity in Worship Recognize that worship is a universal call, and seek to include and encourage people from all backgrounds to join in praising God. Reflect on God's Love Regularly meditate on the greatness of God's loving devotion in your life, allowing it to inspire gratitude and worship. Trust in God's Faithfulness In times of uncertainty, remind yourself of God's enduring faithfulness and let it strengthen your trust in His promises. Simplify Your Worship Focus on the core reasons for worship—God's love and faithfulness—and let them guide your expressions of praise. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Psalm 117, the LORD is the one being praised and extolled by all nations and peoples. The Hebrew term used here is "Yahweh" (יהוה), which is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. The psalm emphasizes His "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) and "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah), highlighting His enduring and steadfast nature. The psalm does not mention any other specific persons or groups by name, but it does address 2. All Nations and Peoples These are the recipients of the call to praise the LORD. The Hebrew words used are "goyim" (גּוֹיִם) for nations and "ummim" (אֻמִּים) for peoples, indicating a universal call to worship that transcends ethnic and national boundaries. In summary, Psalm 117 focuses on the LORD as the object of universal praise and calls all nations and peoples to join in this worship. Places 1. "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples." 2. "For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Hallelujah!" The psalm emphasizes the global scope of God's love and faithfulness, inviting all nations and peoples to participate in worship, but it does not mention specific locations. Events 1. Call to Praise the LORD The psalm begins with a universal call to praise: "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples." (Psalm 117:1). The Hebrew word for "praise" here is "הללו" (halelu), which is an imperative form, urging all nations and peoples to give praise to the LORD. This highlights the inclusivity of God's call, extending beyond Israel to all nations. 2. Acknowledgment of God's Loving Devotion The psalm continues by acknowledging God's steadfast love: "For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever." (Psalm 117:2). The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "חסד" (chesed), which conveys a sense of loyal love or covenant faithfulness. This emphasizes the enduring and unwavering nature of God's love and faithfulness. 3. Affirmation of God's Eternal Faithfulness The psalm concludes with an affirmation of God's eternal faithfulness: "The faithfulness of the LORD endures forever." (Psalm 117:2). The Hebrew word for "faithfulness" is "אמת" (emet), which signifies truth, reliability, and stability. This underscores the perpetual and unchanging nature of God's truth and reliability. Psalm 117, though brief, encapsulates a powerful message of universal praise and recognition of God's enduring love and faithfulness. Lessons from Psalm 117 1. The Universality of Praise Psalm 117 begins with a call to all nations and peoples to praise the Lord: "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples" (Psalm 117:1). This verse reminds us that worship is not limited to a specific group but is a universal invitation. It encourages us to see beyond our immediate circles and recognize that God's love and truth are for everyone, everywhere. This universality of praise unites us in a common purpose, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. 2. The Power of a Short Message Despite being the shortest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 117 packs a powerful punch. It teaches us that brevity can be impactful. In our fast-paced world, where attention spans are short, this psalm reminds us that sometimes less is more. A concise message, when filled with truth and love, can resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression. 3. The Call to Unity The psalm's call for all nations to praise God highlights the importance of unity. In a world often divided by differences, Psalm 117 encourages us to come together in worship. This unity in praise reflects the heart of God, who desires that all His children live in harmony, celebrating His goodness together. 4. The Enduring Love of God Psalm 117:2 declares, "For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever." This verse reassures us of God's unwavering love. His devotion is not fleeting but steadfast, providing a foundation of security and hope. In times of uncertainty, we can rest in the knowledge that God's love is constant and unchanging. 5. The Faithfulness of the Lord The psalm emphasizes God's faithfulness, which endures forever. This attribute of God assures us that He is reliable and trustworthy. In a world where promises are often broken, God's faithfulness is a rock on which we can stand. It encourages us to trust Him fully, knowing that He will never fail us. 6. The Simplicity of Worship Psalm 117 shows us that worship doesn't have to be complicated. A simple, heartfelt expression of praise is powerful and pleasing to God. This simplicity invites us to approach God with sincerity, free from the burden of elaborate rituals. It reminds us that true worship is about the heart's posture rather than external appearances. 7. The Invitation to All The psalm's call to all nations and peoples is an invitation to everyone, regardless of background or status. It reflects God's inclusive nature and His desire for all to know Him. This inclusivity challenges us to extend the same invitation to others, sharing the good news of God's love and salvation with everyone we encounter. 8. The Joy of Praise Praise is a joyful response to God's goodness. Psalm 117 encourages us to find joy in worship, celebrating who God is and what He has done. This joy is contagious, spreading to those around us and drawing them into the experience of God's presence. It reminds us that worship is not a duty but a delight. 9. The Eternal Nature of God's Truth The psalm concludes with the affirmation that "the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever" (Psalm 117:2). This eternal nature of God's truth provides a solid foundation for our lives. In a world where truth is often relative, God's truth remains constant and unchanging, guiding us in every season. 10. The Invitation to Reflect Finally, Psalm 117 invites us to reflect on our own lives. Are we living in a way that reflects the universality, simplicity, and joy of worship? Are we sharing God's love and truth with others? This psalm challenges us to examine our hearts and align our lives with the eternal truths it proclaims, living as beacons of God's love in the world. Topics 1. Universal Call to Praise Psalm 117:1 states, "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples." This verse emphasizes the universal call for all nations and peoples to praise the LORD. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "goyim" (גּוֹיִם), which often refers to Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples, highlighting the inclusivity of God's call to worship. 2. God's Loving Devotion Psalm 117:2 begins with, "For great is His loving devotion toward us." The term "loving devotion" is translated from the Hebrew word "chesed" (חֶסֶד), which conveys God's steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness. This topic underscores the enduring and covenantal nature of God's love for His people. 3. Enduring Faithfulness of the LORD The latter part of Psalm 117:2 states, "and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever." The Hebrew word for "faithfulness" is "emet" (אֱמֶת), which signifies truth, reliability, and stability. This topic highlights the eternal and unchanging nature of God's faithfulness, assuring believers of His constant presence and trustworthiness. 4. Doxology and Praise The psalm concludes with the phrase "Hallelujah!" , which is a transliteration of the Hebrew "Hallelu-Yah" (הַלְלוּיָהּ), meaning "Praise the LORD." This doxology serves as a fitting conclusion, encapsulating the psalm's call to worship and the acknowledgment of God's loving devotion and faithfulness. Themes 1. Universal Call to Worship Psalm 117:1 states, "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples." This verse emphasizes the universal call for all nations and peoples to worship God. The Hebrew word for "nations" (גּוֹיִם, goyim) and "peoples" (עַמִּים, amim) indicates that God's call to worship transcends ethnic and national boundaries, highlighting the inclusivity of God's invitation. 2. God’s Enduring Love and Faithfulness Psalm 117:2 declares, "For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever." The theme here is the steadfast love (חֶסֶד, chesed) and faithfulness (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) of God. These attributes are central to God's character, emphasizing His unwavering commitment and reliability towards His people. 3. Eternal Nature of God’s Truth The phrase "the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever" in verse 2 underscores the eternal nature of God's truth and promises. The Hebrew word for "faithfulness" can also be understood as "truth," indicating that God's truth is unchanging and everlasting. 4. Praise as a Response to God’s Attributes The psalm begins and ends with a call to praise, framing the entire message as a response to God's attributes of love and faithfulness. This theme highlights the appropriate human response to divine goodness, which is worship and adoration. Prayer Points Praise for God's Love Thank God for His great loving devotion and ask for a deeper understanding of His love in your life. Unity in Worship Pray for unity among believers from all nations and backgrounds, that we may join together in praising the Lord. Trust in God's Promises Ask God to strengthen your faith in His enduring faithfulness, especially during challenging times. Heart of Worship Seek a heart that is continually focused on the simplicity and depth of true worship, centered on God's attributes. Answering Tough Questions 1. If Psalm 117:1 calls all nations to praise God, why does historical evidence suggest that many cultures never worshiped the Hebrew God at all? 2. How can the claim in Psalm 117:2 that the LORD’s faithfulness endures forever be squared with scientific perspectives that question the existence of any deity? 3. If Psalm 117 asserts a universal truth, why does it appear so succinct and offer no elaboration or context for its sweeping claims? 4. Does Psalm 117 conflict with other biblical passages that imply exclusivity or a chosen people, such as Deuteronomy 7:6, and if so, how? 5. Is there any archeological or historical support showing all nations ever uniting in praise to the Hebrew God, as demanded in Psalm 117:1? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the universality of the call to praise in Psalm 117 say about God's view of all nations and peoples? 2. In the present day, how can you embody the spirit of Psalm 117 and promote unity and love among different nations and peoples? 3. What does it mean to you that God's steadfast love and faithfulness extend to all peoples? 4. How can you apply the truth of God's steadfast love and faithfulness to your personal life or situation today? 5. How does Psalm 117 challenge your perspective on inclusivity and acceptance? 6. How can the themes of Psalm 117 be relevant to contemporary global issues like racial inequality, political unrest, and religious intolerance? 7. How does understanding the universality of God's love affect your relationships with those who are different from you? 8. How can you practically demonstrate the principles of God's universal love and faithfulness in your community? 9. How does the concept of praising God for His steadfast love and faithfulness manifest in your personal worship? 10. How can you encourage others around you to understand and embrace the message of Psalm 117? 11. How has this Psalm impacted your understanding of God's character? 12. How might you respond to someone who feels excluded or unworthy of God's love, based on Psalm 117? 13. How can the universal praise to God in Psalm 117 be related to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20? 14. How does this Psalm challenge your understanding of God's sovereignty and His plan for humanity? 15. How can the themes of Psalm 117 be used to encourage interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding? 16. How would you share the truth of God's steadfast love and faithfulness with someone who is not a believer? 17. In your own words, explain the importance of the universal call to worship in Psalm 117. 18. How can you live out the truths expressed in this Psalm in your day-to-day life? 19. How does Psalm 117 help you understand your role as a member of the global community of believers? 20. How does the Psalmist’s declaration of God's steadfast love and faithfulness influence your perspective of God in the midst of personal or global crises? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions