How does Psalm 68:11 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Psalm 68:11 — The Word Sent Forth “The Lord gives the command; the women who proclaim the good tidings are a great host.” Matthew 28:19-20 — The Great Commission “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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Common Thread: God Speaks, His People Proclaim • Both passages center on a divine command that must be proclaimed. • In Psalm 68:11 the Lord issues the word; in Matthew 28 the risen Christ issues the word. • The response in both texts is an obedient, widespread proclamation that carries good news. From Old-Covenant Victory to New-Covenant Mission • Psalm 68 celebrates God’s triumph over enemies and His marching presence with Israel (vv. 1-18). The announcement in verse 11 broadcasts that victory. • The Great Commission announces Christ’s greater victory over sin, death, and Satan (Colossians 2:15). Disciples herald that triumph to all nations. Heralds: Then a “Great Company,” Now the Whole Church • In Psalm 68 the messengers are a “great host” of women—an early hint that proclaiming God’s works is not limited to a select few. • Matthew 28 broadens the task to every disciple, regardless of gender, age, or background (Acts 2:17-18; Galatians 3:28). • Both texts dismantle passivity: every believer becomes a herald of God’s deeds. The Content: Good News of Deliverance • Psalm 68’s good tidings: God has routed His foes and secured His people. • Matthew 28’s good tidings: Christ has risen, paid for sin, and offers life to all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Isaiah 52:7 connects both—beautiful feet bringing news that “Your God reigns!” Scope: From Israel’s Borders to the Ends of the Earth • Psalm 68 focuses on Israel’s historical victories yet hints at wider blessing (v. 31). • Matthew 28 explicitly sends the message to “all nations,” fulfilling the global vision promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and echoed in Psalm 67. Power and Presence Guarantee Success • Psalm 68:11 stands amid declarations of God’s might (vv. 7-10, 32-35). • Matthew 28:20 promises Christ’s continual presence, echoed in Acts 1:8—believers empowered by the Spirit to witness. • In both, the divine Sender supplies the strength; heralds simply obey. Practical Takeaways for Today • Treasure the unchanging pattern: God speaks, and His people spread His word. • Recognize every believer—men and women alike—is enlisted in gospel proclamation. • Speak confidently: the same victorious Lord of Psalm 68 stands with His church. • Stay focused on the message: Christ’s finished work and call to repentance and faith (Luke 24:46-47). • Engage the nations—near neighbors and distant peoples—knowing the commission remains in force until “the end of the age.” |
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