The phrase "from the rising to the setting of the sun" is a biblical expression that signifies the entirety of the earth, encompassing all nations and peoples. It is often used to convey the universality of God's sovereignty, worship, and the spread of His glory. This expression is found in various passages throughout the Bible, emphasizing the omnipresence and omnipotence of God.

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 113:3 : "From the rising to the setting of the sun, the name of the LORD is to be praised." This verse highlights the call for continuous worship of the Lord, suggesting that His praise is not confined to a specific location or time but is a perpetual act that spans the entire globe.

2. Malachi 1:11 : "For My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to My name, because My name will be great among the nations, says the LORD of Hosts." Here, the prophet Malachi speaks of a future time when true worship will be offered to God by all nations, indicating the global recognition of His greatness.

3. Isaiah 45:6 : "So that all may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is none but Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other." This passage underscores the exclusivity of God as the one true deity, affirming His unique position as the Creator and Sustainer of all.

Theological Significance:

The use of "from the rising to the setting of the sun" serves as a powerful reminder of God's universal dominion. It reflects the biblical theme that God's authority and presence extend beyond the boundaries of Israel to encompass all creation. This expression also anticipates the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where people from every nation will come to acknowledge and worship Him.

Worship and Praise:

The call to praise God from the rising to the setting of the sun is an invitation to believers to engage in constant worship. It suggests that worship is not limited to specific times or places but is a continuous act of devotion that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. This aligns with the biblical mandate for believers to live lives of worship, reflecting God's glory in all aspects of life.

Mission and Evangelism:

The global scope of this expression also has implications for the mission of the Church. It serves as a reminder of the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). The vision of God's name being praised universally motivates believers to participate in evangelism and missions, spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Conclusion:

The phrase "from the rising to the setting of the sun" encapsulates the biblical vision of God's universal reign and the call for His name to be glorified among all peoples. It serves as a reminder of the comprehensive nature of God's kingdom and the ongoing mission of the Church to proclaim His greatness to the world.