How does Psalm 68:32 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19? Setting the stage: two passages, one mission Psalm 68:32 and Matthew 28:19 stand hundreds of years apart, yet both pulse with the same heartbeat—God’s desire for every nation to know, worship, and obey Him. Psalm 68:32 – the Old Testament vision “Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth; sing praises to the Lord—Selah” (Psalm 68:32) • The verse is an open invitation to “kingdoms of the earth”—all peoples without exception. • It assumes God’s sovereign right to worldwide worship, not merely Israel’s praise. • In the context of the psalm, God has just led His people in victory (vv. 24–31). The natural outcome is global proclamation: when God’s might is displayed, nations are called to respond in praise. Matthew 28:19 – the New Testament commission “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19) • Jesus issues a clear, actionable command: “Go… make disciples.” • “All nations” mirrors the “kingdoms of the earth” language of Psalm 68:32. • The aim extends beyond initial evangelism—disciples must be baptized and taught to obey (v. 20). Points of connection 1. Same audience • Psalm 68: “kingdoms of the earth” • Matthew 28: “all nations” God’s global focus never changes from Old to New Testament. 2. Same end—worship • Psalm 68 calls for singing praise. • Matthew 28 leads to baptism and obedience, acts of worship that publicly honor God. The gospel’s advance always culminates in people glorifying the Lord. 3. Same divine authority • Psalm 68 portrays God as victorious King; His triumph demands universal praise. • Matthew 28:18 precedes the commission—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” The Son now sends His followers with the same kingly authority hinted at in the psalm. 4. Promise before fulfillment • Psalm 68 is a prophetic summons anticipating global praise. • Matthew 28 launches the mission that brings that prophetic vision to reality, ultimately pictured in Revelation 7:9. Supporting scriptural threads • Genesis 12:3—“All the families of the earth will be blessed through you.” • Isaiah 49:6—“I will also make You a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth.” • Acts 1:8—“You will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” • Revelation 7:9—“A great multitude… from every nation, tribe, people, and tongue, standing before the throne.” Each passage echoes the same storyline: God’s glory among every people. Implications for believers today • Confidence: The Great Commission isn’t a new plan—it’s the outworking of God’s long-stated intent (Psalm 68:32). • Motivation: If God already anticipated global praise, the outcome of our obedience is guaranteed; our labor in evangelism will ultimately succeed (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Worship-driven mission: We share the gospel so that new voices sing Psalm 68:32’s song. • Inclusive outlook: No culture, ethnicity, or language is outside God’s invitation or our responsibility. Takeaway summary Psalm 68:32 prophetically calls every kingdom to worship the Lord; Matthew 28:19 provides the marching orders that turn that prophecy into history. From ancient hymn to final command, Scripture paints one seamless picture: God’s people, sent by God’s authority, proclaiming God’s glory to every nation until the whole earth sings. |
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