Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for me. Come and listenThis phrase is an invitation, a call to gather and pay attention. In biblical times, oral tradition was a primary means of communication, and such calls were common in public gatherings or religious assemblies. The psalmist is urging the audience to focus on the testimony about to be shared. This echoes the prophetic calls in the Old Testament, where prophets would often summon the people to hear God's message (e.g., Isaiah 1:2). all you who fear God and I will declare what He has done for me Persons / Places / Events 1. The PsalmistThe author of Psalm 66, traditionally attributed to David, who invites others to hear his testimony of God's work in his life. 2. God The central figure in the Psalm, whose mighty deeds and faithfulness are being proclaimed. 3. The Fearers of God The audience addressed by the Psalmist, those who have reverence and awe for God. 4. The Soul Represents the innermost being of the Psalmist, indicating a personal and profound experience with God. 5. The Assembly Implied gathering of believers who are invited to hear the testimony, suggesting a communal aspect of worship and witness. Teaching Points The Power of TestimonySharing personal experiences of God's work in our lives can strengthen the faith of others and glorify God. Fear of the Lord A reverent fear of God is foundational for understanding and appreciating His works in our lives. Community of Believers The invitation to "come and listen" underscores the importance of fellowship and communal worship in the Christian life. Personal Reflection Reflect on what God has done for your soul and be prepared to share it with others as a testimony of His goodness. Encouragement in Trials Remembering and declaring God's past faithfulness can provide encouragement and hope during difficult times. Bible Study Questions 1. What does it mean to "fear God," and how does this fear influence our willingness to listen and learn from others' testimonies?2. How can sharing personal testimonies of God's work in our lives impact our community of believers? 3. In what ways can we cultivate a habit of reflecting on and declaring what God has done for our souls? 4. How does the concept of testimony in Psalm 66:16 relate to the Great Commission and our call to witness to others? 5. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our testimonies are shared in a way that glorifies God and edifies others? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 34:11This verse also invites those who fear the Lord to listen, emphasizing the importance of teaching and learning about God's ways. Acts 4:20 The apostles declare that they cannot help but speak of what they have seen and heard, similar to the Psalmist's desire to testify. 1 Peter 3:15 Encourages believers to always be ready to give an answer for the hope within them, aligning with the Psalmist's declaration of God's deeds. Deuteronomy 6:4-9 Highlights the importance of sharing God's works and commandments with others, especially within the community of believers. Revelation 12:11 Speaks of overcoming by the word of testimony, which resonates with the Psalmist's proclamation of God's deeds.
People PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Clear, Declare, Ear, Fear, God-fearing, Hearken, Recount, SoulDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 66:16 5355 invitations Library Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:A BRIEF AND FAITHFUL RELATION OF THE EXCEEDING MERCY OF GOD IN CHRIST TO HIS POOR SERVANT, JOHN BUNYAN; WHEREIN IS PARTICULARLY SHOWED THE MANNER OF HIS CONVERSION, HIS SIGHT AND TROUBLE FOR SIN, HIS DREADFUL TEMPTATIONS, ALSO HOW HE DESPAIRED OF GOD'S MERCY, AND HOW THE LORD AT LENGTH THROUGH CHRIST DID DELIVER HIM FROM ALL THE GUILT AND TERROR THAT LAY UPON HIM. Whereunto is added a brief relation of his call to the work of the ministry, of his temptations therein, as also what he hath met with … John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 But, after that He had Made Mention of These Evils... The History of the Psalter The Heart's Desire Given to Help Mission Work in China. In Death and after Death Shewing Wherein all Saving Grace Does Summarily Consist" I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- Jesus Heals on the Sabbath Day and Defends his Act. Why all Things Work for Good Question Lxxxiii of Prayer Psalms Links Psalm 66:16 NIVPsalm 66:16 NLT Psalm 66:16 ESV Psalm 66:16 NASB Psalm 66:16 KJV Psalm 66:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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