What does Psalm 94:10 mean?
What is the meaning of Psalm 94:10?

He who admonishes the nations

“He who admonishes the nations…” (Psalm 94:10)

• The psalmist first fixes our eyes on God’s global authority. Nations rise and fall at His word (Psalm 22:28; Isaiah 40:15).

• Admonish carries the idea of rebuke with corrective intent. Like a loving Father, the Lord confronts collective evil—whether it is Egypt’s oppression (Exodus 7–12), Assyria’s arrogance (Isaiah 10:5-19), or any power that defies His rule (Psalm 2:1-6).

Acts 17:30-31 shows Paul echoing this truth: God “now commands all people everywhere to repent, for He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice.” Every kingdom is accountable to Him.

• This opening phrase assures believers that international chaos is never outside God’s oversight; He still speaks, warns, and intervenes.


does He not discipline?

“…does He not discipline?” (Psalm 94:10)

• The question assumes an emphatic “Yes!” Hebrews 12:5-11 reminds us that the Lord disciplines those He loves, “for our good, so that we may share in His holiness.”

Proverbs 3:11-12 frames discipline as a sign of sonship, not rejection.

• God’s corrective work is purposeful:

– To restrain sin (Jeremiah 30:11)

– To produce righteousness (Hebrews 12:11)

– To restore fellowship (Revelation 3:19)

• Whether His hand falls on nations or individuals, the goal is repentance and renewed obedience, never mere punishment.


He who teaches man

“He who teaches man…” (Psalm 94:10)

• The psalmist shifts from nations to each person, affirming that God is our ultimate Teacher.

Psalm 32:8 voices God’s promise: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go.”

Isaiah 48:17 calls Him “your Redeemer…the One who teaches you for your own benefit.”

• Today He instructs through:

– His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

– The Holy Spirit (John 14:26)

– The wise counsel of mature believers (Colossians 3:16)

• Because the Lord Himself is teaching, His lessons are never unclear or irrelevant; they perfectly match our needs and His purposes.


does He lack knowledge?

“…does He lack knowledge?” (Psalm 94:10)

• Another rhetorical question—answer: absolutely not. God’s omniscience is complete and effortless.

Psalm 139:1-4 shows He knows every thought before it forms; Hebrews 4:13 says “nothing in all creation is hidden from His sight.”

Psalm 147:5 celebrates, “His understanding has no limit,” while 1 John 3:20 reassures hurting hearts that “He knows everything.”

• Because His knowledge is total:

– His judgments are never mistaken.

– His discipline is perfectly calibrated.

– His teaching is flawlessly timed.

• We can therefore trust His timing, wisdom, and methods even when circumstances seem bewildering.


summary

Psalm 94:10 strings together four piercing questions to underline one majestic truth: the Lord who governs nations also shapes each individual life with perfect wisdom. He corrects collective rebellion and personal sin alike, teaching us paths of righteousness through flawless knowledge. Every act of His discipline or instruction flows from absolute authority and unfailing love, inviting us to repent, learn, and rest secure under His sovereign care.

How does Psalm 94:9 address the problem of evil and suffering in the world?
Top of Page
Top of Page