Psalm 117:1

Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol Him, all you peoples!

Study Bible

Praise the LORD, all you nations!
This phrase is a call to universal worship, emphasizing that the LORD is not just the God of Israel but the God of all nations. The use of "nations" (Hebrew: "goyim") indicates a global scope, suggesting that God's sovereignty and grace extend beyond the boundaries of Israel. This anticipates the New Testament revelation that the Gospel is for all people, as seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) and the vision of a diverse multitude worshiping God in Revelation 7:9. Historically, Israel was situated at a crossroads of ancient civilizations, which may have symbolized its role in being a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). The call to praise is prophetic, pointing to the future gathering of all nations to worship the one true God, fulfilled in the Messianic reign of Christ.

Extol Him, all you peoples!
The term "extol" means to praise enthusiastically, indicating a deep, heartfelt worship. "Peoples" (Hebrew: "le'umim") further emphasizes the inclusivity of this call, inviting every ethnic group and culture to join in worship. This reflects the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised that all families of the earth would be blessed through Abraham's seed (Genesis 12:3), ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The repetition of the call to worship underscores its importance and urgency. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, worship was not only a personal act but a communal one, often involving music, dance, and sacrifice. This phrase also connects to the eschatological vision where all peoples will acknowledge God's glory, as seen in Philippians 2:10-11, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His promises.

2. Nations (Hebrew: ???????, goyim)
Refers to all ethnic groups and peoples outside of Israel, highlighting the universal call to worship God.

3. Peoples (Hebrew: ???????, amim)
A term that can refer to groups within nations, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's call to worship.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
God's invitation to worship is extended to all nations and peoples, reflecting His desire for a global community of worshipers.

Unity in Diversity
The call for all nations and peoples to praise God highlights the unity that can be found in diversity when centered on worshiping the one true God.

Mission and Evangelism
This verse underscores the importance of sharing the Gospel with all nations, as God's praise is meant to be declared universally.

God's Sovereignty and Worthiness
The command to praise and extol God is rooted in His sovereignty and worthiness, reminding us of His supreme authority and goodness.

Joyful Obedience
Praising God is not just a duty but a joyful response to His love and faithfulness, encouraging believers to cultivate a heart of gratitude.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Psalm 117:1 challenge our understanding of who is called to worship God?

2. In what ways can we participate in the global mission to invite all nations to praise the LORD?

3. How does the inclusion of all peoples in worship reflect God's character and His plan for humanity?

4. What practical steps can we take to foster unity among diverse groups within our own communities in light of this verse?

5. How can we cultivate a lifestyle of joyful obedience and praise in our daily lives, as encouraged by Psalm 117:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 15:11
Paul quotes Psalm 117:1 to emphasize the inclusion of Gentiles in the worship of God, showing the fulfillment of God's plan for all nations.

Revelation 7:9
This vision of a multitude from every nation worshiping God connects to the universal call in Psalm 117:1.

Isaiah 56:7
God's house is described as a house of prayer for all nations, aligning with the call for all peoples to praise Him.