How does Psalm 138:5 connect with other scriptures about God's greatness? Setting the Scene in Psalm 138:5 “They will sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great.” (Psalm 138:5) • David anticipates a day when “they”—nations, kings, and peoples (cf. vv. 4–6)—lift their voices because God’s “ways” and “glory” are unmistakably magnificent. • The verse stands on two pillars: joyful song and the undeniable greatness of God’s glory. Scripture consistently unites those themes. A Chorus of Praise—Linking to Other Psalms • Psalm 145:3 — “Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable.” › Echoes the identical two-fold truth: God’s greatness calls forth great praise. • Psalm 48:1 — “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God…” › The location may differ (Zion), but the reason remains God’s peerless greatness. • Psalm 96:3–4 — “Declare His glory among the nations… For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised.” › Missionary impulse flows naturally from recognizing His greatness; the nations must hear and sing. • Psalm 118:28 — “You are my God, and I will give You thanks; You are my God, and I will exalt You.” › Personal commitment mirrors the worldwide chorus foretold in Psalm 138:5. The Law and the Prophets Echo the Theme • Deuteronomy 32:3 — “For I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Ascribe greatness to our God!” › Moses sets the precedent for vocal, public recognition of God’s greatness. • Isaiah 12:5 — “Sing to the LORD, for He has done glorious things. Let this be known in all the earth.” › Same pattern: song + proclamation of glory, now with a global scope. • Jeremiah 10:6 — “There is none like You, O LORD. You are great, and Your name is mighty in power.” › God’s unrivaled greatness becomes the prophet’s anchor amid national turmoil. • Habakkuk 3:3–4 — “His splendor covers the heavens, and the earth is full of His praise.” › The prophet envisions creation itself resonating with God’s glory. New Testament Amplifications • Philippians 2:9–11 — “God exalted Him to the highest place… that every knee should bow…and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” › Psalm 138:5’s nations singing is fulfilled as all peoples confess Jesus’ lordship. • Ephesians 1:19–21 — “…the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe… far above all rule and authority…” › God’s greatness is displayed in Christ’s exaltation and in the believer’s life. • Revelation 15:3–4 — “Great and marvelous are Your deeds, O Lord God Almighty… All nations will come and worship before You…” › The final, universal fulfillment of Psalm 138:5’s vision. Personal Takeaways for Today • Praise is the proper, joyful response whenever God’s greatness is glimpsed—whether in Scripture, creation, or providence. • Singing isn’t optional décor; it is the God-ordained vehicle for declaring His glory to others. • The greatness celebrated in Psalm 138:5 spans the Testaments and culminates in Christ. Our worship today joins an unbroken, worldwide anthem that will crescendo in eternity. |
    |