How does Psalm 119:46 connect with Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20? Reading the Verses Side-by-Side • Psalm 119:46: “I will speak of Your testimonies before kings and will not be ashamed.” • Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Shared Themes of Public Witness • Bold speech – The psalmist pledges to “speak … before kings.” – Jesus directs His followers to speak to “all nations.” • Content of the message – Psalm 119 highlights “Your testimonies,” the revealed words of God. – The Great Commission centers on “all that I have commanded you,” the full counsel of Christ. • Fearless confidence – “I will not be ashamed” (Psalm 119:46). – “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). Both verses remove excuses for timidity—one by personal resolve, the other by divine presence. The Continuity of Old and New Covenant Mission • God’s people have always been called to proclaim His Word, whether under the Old Covenant (Psalm 96:3) or the New (Acts 1:8). • Royal and governmental audiences were never exempt (Daniel 6:10-13; Acts 26:1-29). • The same Lord who inspired the psalmist’s courage now empowers the church’s global outreach. Practical Takeaways for Today • Speak up even in intimidating settings—boardrooms, classrooms, or legislatures—trusting the promise of Christ’s presence (Hebrews 13:5-6). • Let Scripture shape both the content and the tone of witness; God’s testimonies still carry authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Replace shame with confidence: the gospel is “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). • Remember that faithfulness, not applause, is the measure of success; obedience pleases the King above every earthly king (1 Thessalonians 2:4). |
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