What does 1 Chronicles 16:28 teach about God's glory and strength? The Text “Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.” — 1 Chronicles 16:28 Immediate Context - David’s song of thanksgiving erupts as the Ark of the Covenant is placed in Jerusalem (1 Chron 16:7–36). - The call goes out to every “family of the nations,” not just Israel. God’s excellence is universal, demanding universal acknowledgment. What the Verse Teaches about God’s Glory - Glory is God’s visible splendor—His perfection displayed. - It is inherent, not borrowed; we do not create it, we merely recognize and proclaim it (Isaiah 42:8; Psalm 19:1). - Scripture consistently pairs glory with worship: “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness” (Psalm 29:2). - Because the command is literal and unqualified, it shows that every nation has the moral duty to honor God’s revealed majesty. What the Verse Teaches about God’s Strength - Strength (Hebrew ʿōz) points to God’s unmatched power—His ability to act, protect, and save (Psalm 93:1; Isaiah 40:28–31). - The verse places strength alongside glory, revealing that God’s power is as worthy of praise as His beauty. - His strength is not oppressive but covenant-keeping; the context of the Ark reminds us He powerfully dwells among His people. Why “Ascribe” Matters - “Ascribe” (Hebrew yāhab) means to give or attribute. We are commanded to verbally, publicly credit God for what is already His. - This is an act of allegiance: recognizing God’s rightful reign (Revelation 4:11). - It aligns our hearts with reality—God is glorious and strong whether we acknowledge it or not, but we are transformed when we do (2 Corinthians 3:18). Practical Implications for Today - Worship with words: speak His glory and strength aloud in song and conversation. - Worship with life: trust His strength when facing weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). - Worship with witness: invite “families of the nations” to see His glory through faithful testimony (Matthew 28:19-20). Summary 1 Chronicles 16:28 literally commands every family on earth to recognize and proclaim two unchanging truths: the LORD alone possesses infinite glory, and the LORD alone wields omnipotent strength. Our heartfelt, vocal acknowledgment honors Him and aligns us with His sovereign reality. |
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