What does it mean to "ascribe greatness to our God" in worship? The Setting of Deuteronomy 32:3 “For I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Ascribe greatness to our God!” • Moses is leading Israel in a song that rehearses God’s faithful dealings with His people. • The command to “ascribe” is placed right after Moses’ own commitment to “proclaim,” linking our declaration of God’s name with our responsibility to honor Him publicly. Unpacking the Word “Ascribe” • To ascribe (Hebrew nā·ṯan, “to give, attribute, assign”) means we actively credit God with what is rightfully His. • It is not adding greatness to God—He already possesses it. We simply recognize, confess, and celebrate that greatness. • This is an intentional act; silence or indifference is the opposite of ascription. What Makes God “Great” • His unrivaled power (Jeremiah 32:17). • His perfect holiness (Isaiah 6:3). • His steadfast love and faithfulness (Psalm 145:8-9). • His sovereign rule over history and nations (1 Chronicles 29:11). • His salvation accomplished through Christ (Romans 5:8). How We Ascribe Greatness in Gathered Worship • Declare His attributes aloud—songs, readings, creeds (Psalm 96:7-8). • Recount His mighty acts—testimony, Scripture reading, preaching (Psalm 145:4-6). • Respond with wholehearted praise—singing, lifting hands, kneeling (Psalm 95:6). • Offer freewill gifts—tithes, offerings, acts of service (Proverbs 3:9). • Submit to His Word—hearts eager to obey (James 1:22). Personal, Everyday Ascription • Speak of His greatness in conversations at home, work, school (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Choose gratitude over complaint, crediting Him for every good gift (James 1:17). • Obey His commands even when costly, acknowledging His authority (John 14:15). • Trust Him in trials, confessing His sovereignty and goodness (Romans 8:28). • Reflect His character by loving others, displaying His greatness in action (Matthew 5:16). The Result When We Ascribe Greatness • God is glorified (Psalm 115:1). • Our faith is strengthened as we recount who He is (Psalm 34:3). • Believers are united around shared truth (Ephesians 4:4-6). • Unbelievers are drawn to the light of His glory (1 Peter 2:12). To “ascribe greatness to our God” is to give voice, heart, and life to the truth that He alone is supremely great—publicly, joyfully, and continually. |
    |