How does Psalm 67:2 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19? Psalm 67:2—God’s Heart for Global Salvation “that Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations.” • A prayer that God’s “way” (His revealed character and covenant path) would be recognized across the whole earth. • “Salvation among all nations” shows the psalmist looking far beyond Israel, anticipating worldwide redemption. • Echoes God’s promise to Abraham: “All the families of the earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3). Matthew 28:19—God’s Mandate for Global Discipleship “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.” • The risen Christ turns the psalmist’s prayer into a direct command. • “All nations” (Greek: panta ta ethnē) mirrors Psalm 67:2’s “all nations,” linking Old Testament longing with New Testament action. • The mandate is not only evangelistic (“go”) but discipling (“make disciples”), ensuring God’s “way” is taught and lived. Key Connections Between the Two Passages 1. Same Audience – Psalm 67:2 foresees the nations; Matthew 28:19 sends the Church to them. 2. Same Goal – Psalm: God’s “salvation” known. – Matthew: People saved and baptized into the triune name. 3. Same Authority Behind the Mission – Psalm petitions God’s sovereign blessing (67:1). – Matthew grounds the Commission in Christ’s “all authority… in heaven and on earth” (28:18). 4. Same Expected Outcome – Psalm anticipates global praise (67:3–5). – Matthew anticipates obedient disciples “to the end of the age” (28:20). – Revelation 7:9 pictures the fulfillment: “a great multitude… from every nation, tribe, people, and tongue.” The Thread Through Scripture • Genesis 12:3 → Psalm 67:2 → Isaiah 49:6 → Matthew 28:19 → Acts 1:8 → Revelation 7:9 One unbroken storyline: God blesses His people so all peoples might know Him. Living It Out Today • Receive the Blessing: like Israel, believers enjoy God’s favor (Ephesians 1:3) so that… • Reflect His Way: our conduct, speech, and love make His “way” visible (1 Peter 2:9–12). • Reach the Nations: participate personally—praying, giving, going—so Psalm 67’s prayer becomes Matthew 28’s reality in our generation. |
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