The phrase "Extol Him, All You Peoples" is a call to worship and praise found in the Psalms, specifically in Psalm 117:1. This psalm is notable for being the shortest chapter in the entire Bible, yet it carries a profound message of universal praise and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and steadfast love.

Biblical Context

Psalm 117:1-2 reads:
1 "Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples!
2 For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Hallelujah!"

This psalm is part of the Hallel, a collection of psalms (Psalms 113-118) traditionally sung during Jewish festivals such as Passover. The call to "extol Him" is an invitation to all nations and peoples, emphasizing the universal scope of God's reign and the inclusivity of His call to worship.

Theological Significance

The command to "extol Him" underscores the belief that God is not only the God of Israel but the God of all creation. This reflects the biblical theme of God's desire for all nations to recognize His glory and majesty. The psalmist's call to praise is rooted in God's "loving devotion" and "faithfulness," attributes that are central to His character and covenant relationship with humanity.

Hebrew Language Insights

The Hebrew word for "extol" used in this passage is "שָׁבַח" (shabach), which conveys the idea of loud praise or commendation. It suggests an enthusiastic and public declaration of God's greatness, inviting all peoples to join in this act of worship.

New Testament Connections

The universal call to praise found in Psalm 117 is echoed in the New Testament, where the inclusion of Gentiles in the worship of God is a significant theme. The Apostle Paul references this psalm in Romans 15:11 to support the argument that God's salvation and promises extend beyond Israel to all nations: "And again: 'Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and extol Him, all you peoples.'"

Practical Application

For believers, the exhortation to "extol Him, all you peoples" serves as a reminder of the global mission of the Church. It encourages Christians to participate in and promote the worship of God across cultural and national boundaries. This call to praise is not limited to personal devotion but extends to communal and corporate expressions of faith, reflecting the unity and diversity of the body of Christ.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, where nations often had their own deities, the call for all peoples to extol the LORD was a radical declaration of monotheism and the supremacy of the God of Israel. It challenged the prevailing polytheistic beliefs and asserted that the LORD alone is worthy of worship and praise.

Conclusion

The phrase "Extol Him, All You Peoples" encapsulates a timeless and universal call to worship that transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. It invites all of humanity to recognize and celebrate the enduring love and faithfulness of God, affirming His rightful place as the object of global praise and adoration.