1 Chronicles 16:28

Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

Study Bible

Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations
This phrase calls for universal recognition of God's sovereignty. The term "ascribe" implies acknowledging or attributing something to someone. Here, it is a call for all families of the nations, not just Israel, to recognize the LORD's authority. This reflects the biblical theme of God's dominion over all creation, as seen in Psalm 96:7-8, which parallels this passage. The inclusion of "families of the nations" suggests a prophetic vision of God's kingdom extending beyond Israel, aligning with the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 12:3, where all nations are to be blessed through Abraham's seed. This anticipates the New Testament revelation of the gospel reaching Gentiles, as seen in Acts 10:34-35.

Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength
The repetition of "ascribe" emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's attributes. "Glory" refers to the weightiness or significance of God's presence and character, often associated with His holiness and majesty. "Strength" highlights God's power and might, which are evident throughout biblical history, from creation to the deliverance of Israel. This call to ascribe glory and strength to the LORD is a reminder of His unparalleled nature, as seen in passages like Isaiah 42:8, where God declares His glory will not be given to another. It also points to the ultimate revelation of God's glory and strength in Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God (Colossians 2:9) and whose strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The king of Israel who organized the return of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and led the people in worship and thanksgiving to God.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, represented by the families of the tribes, who are called to worship and honor God.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God's presence with His people.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the Ark was brought, becoming the central place of worship for Israel.

5. The Nations
Refers to all peoples outside of Israel, indicating the universal call to worship God.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
The call to "ascribe to the LORD" is not limited to Israel but extends to all families of the nations. This highlights the inclusivity of God's invitation to worship.

Recognition of God's Attributes
The terms "glory" and "strength" in the original Hebrew ('kabod' and 'oz') emphasize God's majestic presence and power. Believers are encouraged to recognize and declare these attributes in their worship.

Corporate Worship
The communal aspect of worship is emphasized, as families and nations are called together to honor God. This underscores the importance of gathering as a community to worship.

Response to God's Presence
Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence, believers today are called to respond to God's presence in their lives with reverence and praise.

Mission and Evangelism
The inclusion of "families of the nations" points to the mission of the church to spread the message of God's glory to all peoples, encouraging believers to engage in evangelism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to "ascribe to the LORD" in 1 Chronicles 16:28 challenge our personal and communal worship practices today?

2. In what ways can we, as individuals and as a church, recognize and declare God's glory and strength in our daily lives?

3. How does the inclusion of "families of the nations" in this verse inform our understanding of God's plan for all people?

4. What are some practical ways we can engage in corporate worship that reflects the communal call to honor God?

5. How can the themes of this verse inspire us to participate in mission and evangelism in our local and global communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 96:7-8
This passage echoes the call to ascribe glory to the Lord, emphasizing the universal nature of worship.

Revelation 5:13
Illustrates the ultimate fulfillment of all creation ascribing glory and honor to God.

Isaiah 42:12
Calls for the proclamation of God's glory among the nations, reinforcing the theme of universal worship.