◄ Psalm 98 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Sing to the LORD a New Song (Psalm 149:1–9; Isaiah 42:10–17) A Psalm. 1 Sing to the LORD a new song, for He has done wonders; His right hand and holy arm have gained Him the victory. 2The LORD has proclaimed His salvation and revealed His righteousness to the nations. 3He has remembered His love and faithfulness to the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. 4Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth—let your cry ring out, and sing praises! 5Sing praises to the LORD with the lyre, in melodious song with the harp. 6With trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn shout for joy before the LORD, the King. 7Let the sea resound, and all that fills it, the world, and all who dwell in it. 8Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy 9before the LORD, for He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity. 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 98 Summary Sing to the LORD a New Song Verses 1–3 – A New Song of Saving Power The psalmist calls for a fresh anthem because the LORD has carried out “marvelous deeds.” His own “right hand” and “holy arm”—symbols of personal strength—have achieved victory. This salvation is no secret: “all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.” God’s promise-keeping love toward Israel now stands as public proof of His righteousness before every nation. Verses 4–6 – Shout and Sing, All the Earth Joy ripples outward from Israel to every corner of creation. Voices, stringed instruments, trumpets, and the ram’s horn combine in one loud, happy roar “before the King, the LORD.” Worship is not whispered; it is thunderous, melodic, and shared. Verses 7–9 – Creation Joins the Chorus before the Judge Ocean waves, flowing rivers, and towering mountains answer the human praise. Nature itself rejoices “for He is coming to judge the earth.” The final note is confidence: the Judge of all will rule “with righteousness” and “equity,” setting everything right. Psalm 98, a psalm of exuberant joy and celebration, invites all creation to rejoice in the righteousness, salvation, and kingship of God. The Psalmist expresses deep gratitude for the Lord's faithfulness and love. With poetic imagery and vibrant language, this Psalm unites the chorus of nature and mankind in worship of the Divine. Authorship and Background Psalm 98 is one of the “orphan” psalms—no writer is named. Its language mirrors the exodus victory song (Exodus 15:1-18) and Isaiah’s prophecies of worldwide salvation (Isaiah 52:10), suggesting a poet steeped in Israel’s rescue stories. Many scholars group it with the “Kingship” psalms (Psalm 93, 95-99) that celebrate the LORD as sovereign over all. Psalm 98 in the Psalter Placed near the climax of Book IV (Psalm 90-106), this psalm follows multiple calls to worship and precedes the heartfelt plea of Psalm 102. The sequence moves from praise of God’s rule to dependence on His mercy, preparing readers for the Messianic expectations of Psalm 110. Historical Setting and Archaeological Insights • Trumpets (ḥaṣoṣrâ) and rams’ horns (šōfār) named in verses 5-6 match bronze and silver examples unearthed near the Temple Mount. • The lyre (kinnôr), a small, ten-string instrument, appears on reliefs from Samaria’s 9th-century BC palace. • Public music-led processions were common in ancient Israel (2 Samuel 6:15). Psalm 98 likely served during festivals such as Tabernacles, when water imagery (rivers, seas) and universal joy fit the harvest mood. • “Right hand” and “holy arm” (v. 1) reflect royal victory language seen on Egyptian victory stelae, yet here the ultimate Warrior is the LORD Himself. Key Themes 1. Salvation Made Visible—Deliverance is concrete, witnessed “to the nations” (v. 2). Compare Psalm 96:3 and Luke 3:6. 2. Global Praise—“All the earth” (vv. 4-5) answers the covenant promise that Abraham’s seed blesses every family (Genesis 12:3). 3. Creation’s Voice—Rivers clapping and mountains singing echo Isaiah 55:12 and Romans 8:19-22, where nature longs for full redemption. 4. Righteous Judgment—God’s verdict is fair and welcomed, unlike human courts that often fail (see Psalm 96:13; Acts 17:31). Musical and Liturgical Use • In Second-Temple worship, Psalm 98 was sung daily during certain feasts, according to Mishnah references to “Shir Shel Yom.” • The Christian hymn “Joy to the World” paraphrases this psalm, repurposing its royal arrival theme for Christ’s first and second comings. • Verses 4-6 outline a three-part orchestra: voices, strings, and winds. Worship leaders today often model set-list design on this progression—vocals, instruments, then full band. Connections to Other Scriptures • Exodus 15:6—“Your right hand, O LORD, is glorious in power.” • Isaiah 52:10—“The LORD has bared His holy arm before all the nations.” • Luke 2:10-11—Angels announce “good news of great joy… for all the people,” reflecting Psalm 98’s call to universal celebration. • Revelation 5:9—“They sang a new song,” linking redemption’s newness with global worship. • Romans 3:25-26—God’s righteousness revealed, paralleling verse 2. The Psalm and the Messiah The New Testament views Jesus as the embodiment of the “marvelous deeds” and the long-awaited Judge. • Verse 1’s “new song” surfaces when Christ’s work is complete (Revelation 14:3). • Verse 6 hails “the King, the LORD,” and the Gospels present Jesus riding into Jerusalem to shouts of Psalm-like acclaim (Matthew 21:9). • Verse 9 anticipates His return to judge (2 Timothy 4:1). Practical Application for Believers • Celebrate Salvation—Every testimony of conversion is a modern “marvelous deed.” Tell it widely. • Worship Loudly and Joyfully—God invites volume, instruments, and creativity. • Join Creation’s Song—Outdoor praise walks, stewardship of the environment, and art that honors God’s handiwork tune hearts with rivers and mountains. • Live Expectantly—Confidence in God’s coming judgment fuels present integrity and hope. New Testament Echoes • Hebrews 1:8—Christ enthroned as righteous King mirrors Psalm 98’s rule of equity. • 1 Peter 2:9—Believers called to “declare the praises” echo verse 4’s universal summons. • Revelation 19:6-7—Thunderous worship before the returning King fulfills verses 7-9. Summary Thought Psalm 98 is a celebration that begins with personal gratitude for God’s rescue, swells into a worldwide anthem, and crescendos with all creation cheering the arrival of the righteous Judge. Its melody runs through Israel’s history and finds full harmony in Jesus, the Savior-King who guarantees that the final verse of history will be joy. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 42:10 Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth. This verse echoes the call to sing a new song, emphasizing the global scope of worship. Revelation 15:3-4 And they sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: 'Great and marvelous are Your deeds, Lord God Almighty.' This passage connects the themes of God's marvelous deeds and worship in heaven. Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. This verse aligns with the psalm's emphasis on God's salvation being revealed to all. Teaching Points A New Song for New Mercies Psalm 98:1 begins with an invitation to sing a new song to the Lord. This reflects the fresh mercies and continuous acts of salvation God provides. It encourages believers to continually renew their worship and gratitude. God's Marvelous Deeds The psalm highlights God's marvelous things and His right hand and holy arm that have worked salvation (Psalm 98:1). This emphasizes God's active role in history and His power in delivering His people. Universal Recognition of God's Salvation Verses 2-3 declare that the Lord has made His salvation known and revealed His righteousness to the nations. This points to the universal scope of God's redemptive plan, extending beyond Israel to all peoples. Joyful Worship The psalm is filled with expressions of joy and music, urging all creation to join in praise (Psalm 98:4-6). This underscores the importance of joyful worship as a response to God's goodness. The Righteous Judge Psalm 98:9 concludes with the assurance that the Lord will judge the world with righteousness and equity. This provides hope and assurance that God's justice will ultimately prevail. Practical Applications Renew Your Worship Consider how you can incorporate new expressions of worship in your daily life, reflecting on God's ongoing work in your life. Share God's Salvation Be intentional about sharing the message of God's salvation with others, recognizing that His righteousness is for all nations. Embrace Joyful Worship Engage in worship with joy and enthusiasm, whether through singing, playing instruments, or other forms of praise. Trust in God's Justice In times of injustice or uncertainty, find comfort in the knowledge that God is a righteous judge who will bring about true justice. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The central figure in Psalm 98, the LORD is praised for His marvelous deeds, salvation, and righteousness. The Hebrew root for LORD is "YHWH," which is the sacred name of God, often rendered as "Yahweh" or "Jehovah." The psalm celebrates His kingship and His role as the righteous judge of the earth. 2. All the Earth This refers to the collective creation, including all people and nature, called to make a joyful noise to the LORD. The Hebrew term "kol ha'aretz" encompasses the entirety of the earth and its inhabitants, highlighting the universal call to worship. 3. The House of Israel While not explicitly named in this psalm, the context of God's salvation and faithfulness to Israel is implied. The Hebrew people are often the primary audience in the Psalms, celebrating God's covenantal relationship with them. 4. The Seas and Rivers These elements of creation are personified and called to join in the praise of God. The Hebrew words "yam" (sea) and "nahar" (river) symbolize the natural world's participation in worship. 5. The Mountains Also personified, the mountains are depicted as rejoicing before the LORD. The Hebrew word "harim" refers to these natural elevations, emphasizing the grandeur and majesty of creation in response to God's rule. In summary, Psalm 98 focuses on the LORD as the primary "person" and the collective response of creation, including the earth, seas, rivers, and mountains, in worship and praise. Places 1. The Earth The psalm speaks of the earth as a whole, emphasizing the universal scope of God's salvation and the call for all the earth to make a joyful noise to the Lord. The Hebrew word used here is "אֶרֶץ" (erets), which generally means land or earth. 2. The World The world is mentioned in the context of all its inhabitants being called to join in praise. The Hebrew term "תֵּבֵל" (tebel) is used, which often refers to the inhabited world or the earth in its fullness. Events 1. A New Song for the LORD The psalm begins with a call to "Sing to the LORD a new song" (Psalm 98:1). This reflects the Hebrew word "שִׁיר" (shir), meaning song, emphasizing a fresh expression of worship due to God's marvelous deeds. 2. The LORD's Marvelous Deeds The psalmist declares that the LORD "has done marvelous things" (Psalm 98:1). The Hebrew word "נִפְלָאוֹת" (nifla'ot) indicates extraordinary acts that inspire awe. 3. Victory through His Right Hand The psalm notes that "His right hand and holy arm have worked salvation for Him" (Psalm 98:1). The "right hand" symbolizes power and authority in Hebrew culture. 4. The LORD's Salvation Made Known It is proclaimed that "The LORD has made His salvation known" (Psalm 98:2). The Hebrew word "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshu'ah) refers to deliverance or victory. 5. Revelation of Righteousness The psalm states that "He has revealed His righteousness to the nations" (Psalm 98:2). The Hebrew "צֶדֶק" (tsedeq) signifies justice and moral rightness. 6. Remembrance of Love and Faithfulness The psalmist affirms that "He has remembered His love and faithfulness to the house of Israel" (Psalm 98:3). The Hebrew "חֶסֶד" (chesed) and "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah) denote steadfast love and faithfulness. 7. All the Ends of the Earth Witness Salvation It is declared that "all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God" (Psalm 98:3). This emphasizes the universal scope of God's deliverance. 8. Joyful Noise to the LORD The psalm calls for a "joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth" (Psalm 98:4). The Hebrew "רוּעַ" (rua') means to shout or make a loud noise, indicating exuberant praise. 9. Musical Praise with Instruments The psalm encourages praise with "the harp and the sound of singing" (Psalm 98:5), and "trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn" (Psalm 98:6). These instruments were integral to Hebrew worship. 10. The Sea and World Rejoice The psalmist invites the sea and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it to resound with praise (Psalm 98:7). 11. Rivers and Mountains Sing for Joy The rivers are called to "clap their hands" and the mountains to "sing together for joy" (Psalm 98:8), using vivid imagery to depict nature's participation in worship. 12. The LORD Comes to Judge the Earth The psalm concludes with the declaration that "He comes to judge the earth" (Psalm 98:9). The Hebrew "שָׁפַט" (shaphat) means to judge or govern, highlighting God's righteous rule. Lessons from Psalm 98 1. Sing a New Song to the Lord Psalm 98 begins with a call to "sing a new song to the LORD, for He has done marvelous things" (Psalm 98:1). This is a reminder to continually refresh our worship and gratitude. Just as God’s mercies are new every morning, our praise should be vibrant and renewed. Singing a new song is not just about music; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the fresh works God is doing in our lives daily. 2. Witness His Salvation The psalm highlights that "His right hand and holy arm have worked salvation for Him" (Psalm 98:1). This is a powerful reminder that salvation is a divine act, accomplished by God’s strength and holiness. It’s a call to witness and testify to the salvation we have received through Jesus Christ, sharing this good news with others. 3. Proclaim His Righteousness "The LORD has made His salvation known and revealed His righteousness to the nations" (Psalm 98:2). God’s righteousness is not hidden; it’s a beacon for all to see. As believers, we are called to live in a way that reflects His righteousness, becoming living testimonies of His grace and truth in a world that desperately needs it. 4. Remember His Faithfulness Psalm 98:3 reminds us that "He has remembered His love and faithfulness to the house of Israel." God’s faithfulness is unwavering, and His promises are sure. In times of doubt or difficulty, we can find comfort in knowing that God’s love and faithfulness are constants in our lives, just as they were for Israel. 5. All the Earth Shouts for Joy "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth; break forth, be jubilant, and sing praises" (Psalm 98:4). This verse is a call to universal worship. It’s a reminder that joy is not just a personal experience but a communal one. Our joy in the Lord should be so contagious that it invites others to join in the celebration. 6. Use Every Instrument for Praise The psalm encourages us to "make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing" (Psalm 98:5). This is an invitation to use all our resources and talents to glorify God. Whether through music, art, or any other gift, we are called to creatively express our worship and gratitude. 7. The Sea and All Creation Join In "Let the sea resound, and all that fills it, the world, and all who dwell in it" (Psalm 98:7). Nature itself is a testament to God’s glory. This verse encourages us to see creation as a partner in worship, reminding us of the grandeur of God’s creation and our role in stewarding it with care and reverence. 8. Anticipate the Lord’s Coming Psalm 98:9 speaks of the Lord coming "to judge the earth." This is a reminder of the hope we have in Christ’s return. It’s a call to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our actions today have significance in God’s eternal plan. We are to live in anticipation, preparing our hearts and lives for His coming. 9. Celebrate His Justice "He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity" (Psalm 98:9). God’s justice is perfect and fair. In a world where justice can often seem elusive, this is a comforting assurance that God’s judgment is righteous and equitable. It’s a call to trust in His justice and to advocate for justice in our own communities. 10. Embrace the Joy of the Lord Throughout Psalm 98, there is an overwhelming sense of joy. This joy is rooted in the knowledge of God’s salvation, righteousness, and faithfulness. As believers, we are invited to embrace this joy, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our lives. Joy is not just an emotion; it’s a fruit of the Spirit and a testament to the transformative power of God’s love in our lives. Topics 1. A New Song of Praise Psalm 98 begins with a call to sing a "new song" to the LORD, emphasizing the freshness and ongoing relevance of worship. The Hebrew word for "new" (חָדָשׁ, chadash) suggests something fresh and unprecedented, highlighting the continuous renewal of God's mercies and acts. 2. The LORD's Marvelous Deeds The psalmist celebrates the LORD's "marvelous deeds" (נִפְלָאוֹת, niphla'ot), which refer to His miraculous works and interventions in history. These deeds are a testament to His power and faithfulness. 3. Salvation and Righteousness Revealed The psalm declares that the LORD has made His "salvation" (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshu'ah) and "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) known to the nations. This reflects God's desire for all people to witness His saving power and moral integrity. 4. Remembrance of His Love and Faithfulness God's "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) and "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) to Israel are highlighted, underscoring His covenantal relationship with His people. These attributes are central to His character and actions. 5. Universal Call to Joyful Worship The psalm extends an invitation to all the earth to "shout for joy" (רוּעַ, rua') to the LORD. This universal call emphasizes the inclusivity of God's reign and the appropriate response of joyful worship from all creation. 6. Musical Instruments in Worship The use of musical instruments such as the harp, trumpets, and horn is encouraged to praise the LORD. This reflects the rich tradition of using music in worship to express the depth of devotion and celebration. 7. Creation's Response to the LORD Nature itself is called to join in the praise, with the sea, rivers, and mountains personified as rejoicing before the LORD. This imagery underscores the harmony of creation under God's sovereign rule. 8. The LORD's Righteous Judgment The psalm concludes with the anticipation of the LORD's coming to "judge the earth" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) with righteousness and equity. This reflects the hope for divine justice and the restoration of order according to God's perfect standards. Themes 1. Praise for God's Marvelous Works Psalm 98 begins with a call to sing a new song to the LORD for the marvelous things He has done: "Sing to the LORD a new song, for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have worked salvation for Him" (Psalm 98:1). The Hebrew word for "marvelous" (נִפְלָאוֹת, niphla'ot) emphasizes the extraordinary and miraculous nature of God's deeds. 2. Salvation and Righteousness Revealed The psalm highlights God's salvation and righteousness: "The LORD has made His salvation known and revealed His righteousness to the nations" (Psalm 98:2). The Hebrew word for "salvation" (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshu'ah) signifies deliverance and victory, while "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) refers to God's just and moral nature. 3. Faithfulness to Israel God's faithfulness and love toward Israel are celebrated: "He has remembered His love and faithfulness to the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God" (Psalm 98:3). The Hebrew term for "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) conveys steadfastness and reliability. 4. Universal Call to Joyful Worship The psalm extends a universal invitation to worship: "Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth; break forth into jubilant song with music" (Psalm 98:4). The call to "shout for joy" (רָנַן, ranan) is an exhortation for exuberant and vocal praise. 5. Use of Music in Worship Music is emphasized as a means of worship: "Make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing" (Psalm 98:5). The use of instruments like the harp (כִּנּוֹר, kinnor) underscores the importance of musical expression in praising God. 6. God as the Righteous Judge The psalm concludes with the anticipation of God's righteous judgment: "Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy before the LORD, for He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity" (Psalm 98:8-9). The Hebrew word for "judge" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) indicates God's role as a fair and just ruler. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Salvation Thank God for His marvelous deeds and the salvation He has provided through Jesus Christ. Joyful Worship Pray for a heart that is continually filled with joy and gratitude, leading to authentic and exuberant worship. Boldness in Sharing the Gospel Ask for courage and opportunities to share the message of God's salvation with others. Trust in God's Justice Pray for faith to trust in God's righteous judgment, especially in situations where justice seems delayed or absent. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 98:1 claims God has done “marvelous things.” Where is the historical or archaeological proof of these miraculous acts? 2. Psalm 98:2 asserts God’s salvation is seen by all nations. How could this be true if many ancient cultures seem untouched by Hebrew beliefs? 3. Psalm 98:7–8 depicts seas and rivers praising God. How are we to accept these as literal events rather than poetic symbolism? 4. Psalm 98 portrays God as righteous and just, yet countless injustices have occurred throughout history—how does this align with a fair divine judgment? 5. Psalm 98:9 promises judgment with equity, but other biblical passages show God permitting destruction and violence—how are these reconciled? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the imagery used in Psalm 98 enhance your understanding of God's greatness? 2. What does it mean to "sing a new song" to the Lord? How can this apply to your personal worship? 3. How does the Psalmist describe the salvation of the Lord? In what ways have you personally experienced this salvation? 4. How is God's righteousness displayed to all nations? How can you show God's righteousness in your interactions with others? 5. The Psalmist refers to the joy of creation in praising the Lord. How does nature's praise inspire your own worship? 6. How can we join the earth in making a "joyful noise" to the Lord in our daily life? 7. Reflect on the statement: "The Lord is coming to judge the earth." How does this statement affect your view of justice? 8. How does the assurance of God's righteous judgment comfort you? How can it guide your decisions and actions? 9. In the context of this Psalm, how is God's love displayed toward Israel? How have you experienced God's love and faithfulness? 10. How does this Psalm affect your understanding of the interconnectedness of all creation in worshiping God? 11. How can we practically demonstrate joy in God's salvation like the seas, rivers, and hills? 12. How does the final verse "He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with fairness" impact your perception of God's justice in the world? 13. How does the Psalm's depiction of God as both a righteous Judge and a loving Savior influence your relationship with Him? 14. How can we apply the themes of praise and worship from this Psalm in our communities? 15. How does this Psalm inspire you to proclaim God's salvation and righteousness to others? 16. In a world often filled with unrighteousness, how can we maintain a heart of worship like the Psalmist? 17. How does the joy expressed in this Psalm guide your approach to handling challenges in life? 18. Reflecting on this Psalm, how can you actively seek to witness God's marvelous deeds in your everyday life? 19. How does the joyful celebration in this Psalm inspire you to spread the message of God's love and righteousness to those around you? 20. Reflecting on Psalm 98, how would you describe the character of God? How does this affect your personal faith journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions