Psalm 98

This is another psalm that calls the earth to praise God in view of His coming reign.

"It is a close companion to Psalm 96, but is wholly given up to praise. Here there are no comparisons with the heathen, no instructions in right worship: all is joy and exhilaration."¹⁶²

 1. God's past revelation of His salvation 98:1-3

Verse 1 anticipates a future victory for which the psalmist called on his readers to praise God. Already God had demonstrated His saving ability by redeeming Israel. All the world was familiar with what God had done for His chosen people, not only in the Exodus but throughout their history.

 2. God's future judgment of the world 98:4-9

98:4-8 In view of the Lord's coming to judge the earth (v. 9) everyone and everything should praise Him enthusiastically.

98:9 The prospect of Yahweh's balancing the scales of justice is good reason for universal rejoicing. His "coming"describes a literal visit to this earth rather than just a heavenly judgment and reign.¹⁶³

This psalm should help God's people to view the Lord's coming to earth to reign as a blessing rather than something we should fear. Even though He will rule with an iron rod (Ps. 2) His coming will be a good thing for humankind. We should rejoice greatly in anticipation of it.