Psalm 98:1

Sing to the LORD a new song, for He has done wonders; His right hand and holy arm have gained Him the victory.

Study Bible

Sing to the LORD
The phrase "Sing to the LORD" calls believers to express their worship and adoration through song. The Hebrew word for "sing" is "שִׁירוּ" (shiru), which is an imperative form, indicating a command or strong encouragement. Singing has been a central part of worship throughout biblical history, as seen in the songs of Moses, David, and the early church. It is a means of expressing joy, gratitude, and reverence to God. The act of singing to the LORD is not just a ritual but a heartfelt response to His majesty and grace.

a new song
The term "a new song" suggests freshness and renewal in worship. The Hebrew word "חָדָשׁ" (chadash) means new, fresh, or renewed. This phrase appears several times in the Psalms and Revelation, often associated with God's mighty acts and the anticipation of His future works. It implies that God's mercies and deeds are ever-present and continually inspire new expressions of praise. The "new song" reflects a dynamic relationship with God, where His ongoing work in the world and in the lives of believers prompts continuous, fresh worship.

for He has done marvelous things
The phrase "for He has done marvelous things" acknowledges God's wondrous deeds. The Hebrew word "נִפְלָאוֹת" (nifla'ot) refers to acts that are extraordinary and beyond human capability, often used to describe God's miracles and mighty works. This acknowledgment serves as the foundation for the call to sing a new song. It is a reminder of God's power and faithfulness, as seen in creation, deliverance, and salvation history. These "marvelous things" inspire awe and gratitude, compelling believers to respond in worship.

His right hand and His holy arm
The imagery of "His right hand and His holy arm" symbolizes God's strength and power. In Hebrew culture, the right hand often represents authority and might, while the "holy arm" emphasizes God's purity and righteousness in exercising His power. This phrase underscores the divine intervention and victory that God achieves on behalf of His people. It reassures believers of God's sovereign control and His ability to accomplish His purposes, providing comfort and confidence in His protection and deliverance.

have worked salvation for Him
The phrase "have worked salvation for Him" highlights the outcome of God's mighty acts. The Hebrew word for salvation, "יְשׁוּעָה" (yeshu'ah), conveys deliverance, rescue, and victory. This salvation is not only for the benefit of humanity but also for the glory of God. It reflects the ultimate purpose of God's redemptive acts—to reveal His character and bring honor to His name. This salvation history, culminating in the work of Christ, is the ultimate reason for the new song of praise, as it demonstrates God's love, justice, and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, Yahweh is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. He is the one to whom the new song is sung.

2. The Psalmist
The author of the psalm, traditionally attributed to David, who calls the people to worship and praise God for His mighty acts.

3. Marvelous Things
Refers to the wondrous deeds and acts of salvation performed by God, which are the reason for the new song of praise.

4. Right Hand and Holy Arm
Symbolic of God's power and strength. In Hebrew culture, the right hand often signifies authority and action, while the holy arm represents divine intervention and salvation.

5. Salvation
The deliverance and victory that God has achieved for His people, a central theme in the psalm and throughout the Bible.

Teaching Points

The Call to Worship
We are invited to sing a new song to the LORD, which signifies a fresh expression of praise and gratitude for His ongoing work in our lives.

Recognizing God's Marvelous Works
Reflect on the specific ways God has worked marvelously in your life and community. Acknowledge His hand in both the grand and the subtle.

God's Power and Salvation
Trust in the strength of God's right hand and holy arm. His power is sufficient for our salvation and deliverance from any situation.

Continual Renewal in Worship
Our worship should be continually renewed as we experience God's grace and mercy daily. Let each day bring a new reason to praise Him.

Living in the Light of Salvation
As recipients of God's salvation, live in a way that reflects His marvelous works, sharing His love and truth with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to sing a "new song" to the LORD, and how can this be applied in our personal and corporate worship today?

2. How have you experienced God's "marvelous things" in your life, and how can you share these testimonies with others?

3. In what ways does the imagery of God's "right hand" and "holy arm" provide comfort and assurance in times of trouble?

4. How does the theme of salvation in Psalm 98:1 connect with the broader account of redemption throughout the Bible?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced God's deliverance. How did it impact your faith and relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 52:10
This verse speaks of the LORD's holy arm being revealed to all nations, emphasizing God's power and salvation being made known universally.

Revelation 5:9
The call to sing a new song is echoed in the heavenly worship scene, where the Lamb is praised for His redemptive work.

Exodus 15:1
The song of Moses after the crossing of the Red Sea is an example of a new song sung in response to God's deliverance.