What is the meaning of Psalm 98:1?

A psalm.

• This brief heading reminds us we are in God’s songbook, inspired, preserved, and intended for worship just as surely for us today as for Israel (2 Timothy 3:16; Romans 15:4).

• Like the superscriptions before many psalms, it signals that what follows is not mere poetry but sacred Scripture amounting to God’s own revelation (Psalm 19:7–9).

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Sing to the LORD a new song,

• “Sing” calls for an active response; praise should be voiced, not merely felt (Psalm 47:6–7; Hebrews 13:15).

• “To the LORD” keeps worship centered on the covenant God, never on human performers (Psalm 115:1; Revelation 14:3).

• “A new song” points to fresh gratitude arising from fresh mercies (Lamentations 3:22–23; Psalm 40:3).

– Every fresh display of grace deserves a fresh chorus (Psalm 96:1; Isaiah 42:10).

– In Christ the redeemed will eternally sing new songs of deliverance (Revelation 5:9).

• Musical style is not the issue; the heart is. Whatever is “new” must still be anchored in truth (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).

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for He has done wonders;

• Praise is reasoned, not random. We sing because God “has done wonders” (Psalm 9:1).

– Creation itself is a standing wonder proclaiming His power (Psalm 8:3–4; Romans 1:20).

– Redemption history is studded with marvels—from the Exodus (Exodus 15:11) to the empty tomb (Acts 2:24).

• Looking back fuels present confidence: the God who acted then still acts now (Psalm 77:11–14; Hebrews 13:8).

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His right hand and holy arm have gained Him the victory.

• “Right hand” pictures unmatched strength (Exodus 15:6; Psalm 118:15–16).

• “Holy arm” reminds us His power is always righteous, never capricious (Isaiah 52:10; Psalm 89:13–14).

• “Have gained Him the victory” underscores that salvation is God’s accomplishment, not ours (Jonah 2:9; Ephesians 2:8–9).

– Ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s resurrection and exaltation (Acts 2:32–36; Ephesians 1:19–20).

– Assures believers that every enemy—sin, death, Satan—has already been decisively defeated (1 Corinthians 15:57; Revelation 19:11–16).

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summary

Psalm 98:1 calls us to lift an ever-fresh song because the LORD has already secured complete victory by His own holy power. Looking back at His wonders and forward to their consummation in Christ, we join creation’s choir, celebrating the God who acts, saves, and reigns.