Psalm 98:9

before the LORD, for He comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity.

Study Bible

before the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the presence and authority of God as the ultimate judge and ruler. In Hebrew, the word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the sacred and personal name of God, which signifies His eternal existence and covenant relationship with His people. The phrase "before the LORD" suggests a posture of reverence and submission, acknowledging that all actions and judgments occur under His divine oversight. Historically, this reflects the theocratic understanding of Israel, where God was seen as the supreme authority over all creation.

for He comes
This phrase anticipates the active intervention of God in the world. The Hebrew verb used here conveys a sense of imminent action, suggesting that God's coming is both certain and near. This reflects the eschatological hope found throughout the Scriptures, where God's arrival signifies the fulfillment of His promises and the establishment of His kingdom. The expectation of God's coming is a source of hope and encouragement for believers, affirming that God is not distant but actively involved in the affairs of the world.

to judge the earth
The concept of judgment in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing both the idea of rendering a verdict and the execution of justice. The Hebrew word for "judge" is "shaphat," which implies not only legal decision-making but also the restoration of order and righteousness. This judgment is comprehensive, extending to the entire earth, indicating God's sovereign authority over all nations and peoples. In a historical context, this reflects the belief in God's ultimate justice, where He will right all wrongs and establish His righteous rule.

He will judge the world
This phrase reiterates the scope of God's judgment, emphasizing its universality. The "world" here refers to the inhabited earth, encompassing all humanity. The certainty of this judgment is underscored by the future tense, affirming that God's justice is not only a present reality but also a future certainty. This serves as a reminder of the accountability of all people before God and the assurance that His justice will prevail.

with righteousness
Righteousness, or "tsedeq" in Hebrew, is a key attribute of God's character, reflecting His moral perfection and faithfulness to His covenant. God's judgment is not arbitrary but is based on His righteous standards, ensuring that it is fair and just. This righteousness is a source of comfort for believers, as it guarantees that God's judgments are true and equitable, aligning with His holy nature.

and the peoples with equity
The term "equity" conveys the idea of fairness and impartiality. In Hebrew, it is "meyshar," which suggests a level path or evenness. God's judgment is characterized by equity, meaning that it is free from bias or favoritism. This assurance of equitable judgment is particularly significant in a historical context where human justice systems often failed to deliver true justice. For believers, this promise of divine equity provides hope and confidence in God's just governance of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing God as the ultimate judge who comes to bring justice and righteousness to the earth.

2. The Earth
The realm over which God exercises His judgment, encompassing all creation and humanity.

3. The World
Refers to the inhabitants of the earth, highlighting the scope of God's righteous judgment.

4. The Peoples
All nations and ethnic groups, emphasizing the universal nature of God's equitable judgment.

5. Judgment Event
The anticipated time when God will come to judge the earth, a future event that brings hope and accountability.

Teaching Points

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment is characterized by righteousness, meaning it is fair, just, and in accordance with His holy nature. Believers can trust in God's perfect justice.

Universal Scope of Judgment
God's judgment is not limited to a specific group but extends to all peoples and nations. This calls for a global perspective in our understanding of God's justice.

Equity in Judgment
The term "equity" implies impartiality and fairness. God's judgment is not biased or unjust, reminding us to reflect His fairness in our dealings with others.

Anticipation of Divine Justice
The anticipation of God's coming judgment should inspire hope and accountability. Believers are encouraged to live righteously in light of God's future judgment.

Call to Worship and Reverence
Recognizing God's role as judge should lead to worship and reverence, acknowledging His sovereignty and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's righteous judgment influence your perspective on justice in the world today?

2. In what ways can you reflect God's equity and fairness in your interactions with others?

3. How does the anticipation of God's judgment provide hope and accountability in your daily life?

4. What connections can you draw between Psalm 98:9 and the New Testament teachings on judgment, such as those found in Acts 17:31?

5. How can the knowledge of God's coming judgment inspire worship and reverence in your personal and communal spiritual practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 96:13
This verse also speaks of the LORD coming to judge the earth with righteousness and truth, reinforcing the theme of divine justice.

Revelation 19:11
Describes Christ as the righteous judge, connecting the Old Testament anticipation of judgment with the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus.

Acts 17:31
Paul speaks of God appointing a day to judge the world with justice through Jesus, linking the psalmist's anticipation with the apostolic teaching.