How does Psalm 40:3 connect with evangelism in the New Testament? Psalm 40:3—The Seed of Gospel Witness “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” A Fresh Song, a Changed Life • “New song” pictures the believer’s transformed heart (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:17). • The song is “in my mouth,” not hidden—personal yet public. • The purpose clause follows: “Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” Personal praise becomes corporate faith; testimony leads to conversion. Foreshadowing New-Testament Evangelism 1. Public proclamation • Acts 2:11—Spirit-filled believers “declaring the wonders of God.” • Colossians 3:16—“Admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” 2. Observable transformation • Mark 5:19—Jesus sends the delivered man home to “tell them how much the Lord has done for you.” • Acts 4:13—Crowds “recognized that they had been with Jesus.” 3. Result: others believe • Acts 2:41—“About three thousand souls were added.” • 1 Thessalonians 1:8—“The word of the Lord rang out from you… your faith has become known everywhere.” Key Parallels Between Psalm 40:3 and New-Testament Evangelism • A new song → a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Many will see → gospel witness is visible and audible (Matthew 5:16). • Fear the LORD → conviction of sin (Acts 2:37). • Trust in the LORD → saving faith in Christ (Romans 10:9–10). Why the Connection Matters for Us • Evangelism is rooted in authentic worship—first we receive, then we sing, then others believe. • Sharing Christ flows naturally from gratitude, not mere duty (Luke 2:20). • Our story of rescue is God’s chosen means to draw “many” (1 Peter 2:9). Putting Psalm 40:3 Into Practice Today • Remember the rescue—meditate on what God has done; let thankfulness fill your mouth. • Speak and sing your story—use everyday moments, social media, corporate worship. • Expect God to work—He still turns personal praise into public salvation (Romans 1:16). The psalmist’s new song finds its full chorus in the New Testament: hearts changed by Christ cannot stay silent, and God uses that joyful sound to bring multitudes to faith. |