Psalm 98 is a jubilant hymn of praise, celebrating God’s majesty and salvation. While the author is not explicitly named, its universal scope and prophetic vision align with the themes of messianic fulfillment and divine kingship. This psalm is part of a group known as the “Enthronement Psalms” (Psalms 93–100), which proclaim God’s reign and His victory over the forces of evil.
The purpose of Psalm 98 is to call all creation to worship the Lord for His salvation and righteous judgment. Its themes extend beyond Israel’s history to encompass the entire earth, culminating in the Second Coming of Christ and His Millennial reign. From a dispensational perspective, this psalm anticipates the glorious return of Christ as King, when He will rule in righteousness and bring restoration to the earth.
Words: 1410 / Time to read: 7 minutes
The Lord’s Marvelous Deeds (Verses 1–3)
“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. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.” (Psalm 98:1-3)
The psalm begins with a call to sing a “new song” in response to God’s marvelous deeds. This phrase signifies a fresh expression of praise for a new act of divine intervention. While the immediate context may reflect a historical deliverance, such as Israel’s return from exile, the ultimate fulfillment lies in the salvation accomplished through Christ.
The imagery of God’s “right hand and holy arm” emphasizes His power and holiness in achieving victory. This language connects to Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ is depicted as a warrior King, returning in power to defeat His enemies and establish His kingdom.
The psalm’s reference to God revealing His righteousness to the nations points to the inclusivity of His salvation plan. This is echoed in Isaiah 49:6: “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.” The mention of God’s faithfulness to Israel reaffirms His covenant promises, which will be fully realized during the Millennial Kingdom when Christ reigns from Jerusalem.
The Lord’s Universal Kingship (Verses 4–6)
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King.” (Psalm 98:4-6)
The psalm shifts focus to a universal call to worship, inviting “all the earth” to celebrate God’s kingship. This invitation transcends Israel, envisioning a time when all nations will acknowledge the Lord as King. Such universal praise anticipates the fulfillment of Philippians 2:10-11: “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
The use of musical instruments, including the harp, trumpets, and ram’s horn, emphasizes the grandeur and celebratory nature of this occasion. This imagery aligns with Revelation 11:15, where the seventh trumpet announces: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.”
From a dispensational perspective, this section points to the Millennial Kingdom, when Christ will reign as King over all the earth. His righteous rule will unite nations in joyful worship, fulfilling the prophetic vision of Zechariah 14:9: “The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.”
The Lord’s Righteous Judgment (Verses 7–9)
“Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples with equity.” (Psalm 98:7-9)
The psalm concludes with a vision of creation itself joining in praise. The sea, rivers, and mountains are personified, symbolizing the restoration and renewal of creation under Christ’s reign. This echoes Romans 8:19-21, where Paul writes of creation longing to be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.
The declaration that “he comes to judge the earth” points to the Second Coming of Christ, when He will establish His righteous rule. Revelation 19:15 describes this judgment: “Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. He will rule them with an iron scepter.” Unlike human rulers, Christ’s judgment will be perfectly just, marked by righteousness and equity.
The imagery of creation rejoicing reflects the harmony that will be restored during the Millennial Kingdom. Isaiah 55:12 captures a similar vision: “The mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” This restoration will bring peace and flourishing, fulfilling God’s original design for creation.
Theological Reflection: The King’s Glorious Reign
Psalm 98 offers a prophetic vision of the Second Coming of Christ and His reign during the Millennial Kingdom. From a dispensational perspective, it highlights key aspects of this glorious era:
- The Victory of the King: Christ’s return will bring final victory over sin, death, and evil, establishing His righteous rule.
- The Universal Worship of the King: All nations and creation itself will join in joyful praise, acknowledging Christ as the rightful King.
- The Restoration of Creation: The curse of sin will be lifted, bringing harmony and flourishing to the earth.
- The Righteous Judgment of the King: Christ’s rule will be marked by perfect justice and equity, ensuring peace and righteousness for all.
Metaphors and Comparisons in Psalm 98
Psalm 98 employs vivid imagery to deepen its message:
- New Song (Verse 1): Represents a fresh expression of praise for God’s ultimate victory, echoed in Revelation 5:9: “You are worthy…because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
- Right Hand and Holy Arm (Verse 1): Symbolize God’s power and holiness, connecting to the victorious return of Christ in Revelation 19:11-16.
- Rivers Clapping and Mountains Singing (Verse 8): Illustrate the restoration of creation, reflecting Isaiah 55:12 and Romans 8:19-21.
- Shout for Joy (Verses 4–6): A universal call to worship, aligning with the prophetic vision of universal praise in Philippians 2:10-11.
These comparisons highlight the psalm’s anticipation of the Messiah’s reign and its global and cosmic implications.
Timeless Lessons for Believers
Psalm 98 offers profound encouragement and hope for believers today:
- Celebrate God’s Salvation: The psalm calls us to rejoice in the salvation accomplished through Christ and to anticipate His ultimate victory.
- Look Forward to Christ’s Return: The Second Coming and the Millennial Kingdom provide hope and assurance that God’s justice will prevail.
- Join Creation in Praise: As part of God’s creation, we are invited to join the chorus of praise for His majesty and righteousness.
- Proclaim the Coming King: The universal scope of this psalm challenges us to share the gospel and declare Christ’s kingship to all nations.
Conclusion: Rejoicing in the Coming King
Psalm 98 is a triumphant celebration of God’s majesty, salvation, and righteous rule. From a dispensational perspective, it anticipates the Second Coming of Christ and His reign during the Millennial Kingdom, offering a vision of universal praise and restored creation.
As we reflect on this psalm, may we rejoice in the certainty of Christ’s return and His perfect reign. Let us live in anticipation of the day when all nations and creation itself will join in praise to the King of Kings.
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” (Revelation 22:20)
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
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