Topical Encyclopedia The concept that all creation is obligated to praise God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. This obligation is not merely a suggestion but a divine expectation that reflects the inherent purpose and design of all that exists. The Scriptures provide numerous references that underscore this truth, emphasizing that every part of creation, from the heavens to the earth, is called to glorify its Creator.Biblical Foundation The Psalms are particularly rich in expressions of this universal call to praise. Psalm 148 is a quintessential passage that illustrates this theme. It begins with a call to the heavens: "Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise Him in the highest places" (Psalm 148:1). The psalmist continues by summoning celestial beings, the sun, moon, and stars, to join in this chorus of praise (Psalm 148:2-3). The passage extends the call to the earth, including sea creatures, weather phenomena, mountains, trees, animals, and all peoples (Psalm 148:7-12). The obligation of praise is not limited to animate creation. Isaiah 55:12 poetically describes the mountains and hills breaking into song and the trees of the field clapping their hands, symbolizing the joy and praise that all creation offers to God. This imagery reinforces the idea that every element of creation has a role in the divine symphony of praise. Theological Implications The obligation of praise upon all creation is rooted in the recognition of God's sovereignty and majesty. As the Creator, God is worthy of all honor and glory. Revelation 4:11 declares, "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created" . This acknowledgment of God's creative power and sustaining presence forms the basis for the universal call to praise. Furthermore, the New Testament echoes this theme, emphasizing that creation itself eagerly awaits the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Romans 8:19-21 speaks of creation's longing for liberation from its "bondage to decay" and its participation in the "freedom of the glory of the children of God" . This anticipation is intertwined with the ultimate purpose of creation to glorify God fully. Human Participation in Creation's Praise While all creation is called to praise, humans have a unique role as bearers of God's image. Psalm 150:6 exhorts, "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Hallelujah!" . This verse highlights the responsibility of humanity to lead in the worship of God, using the breath of life given by the Creator to offer praise. The obligation of praise is also a response to God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:12 states that believers are chosen "for the praise of His glory" . This calling is both a privilege and a duty, as Christians are to live lives that reflect God's glory and proclaim His praises to the world. Conclusion The biblical mandate for all creation to praise God is a profound reminder of the interconnectedness of all that exists under the sovereignty of the Creator. From the vastness of the cosmos to the smallest creature, every part of creation is designed to reflect God's glory and participate in the eternal chorus of praise. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 148:1-10Praise you the LORD. Praise you the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 150:6 Library Divine Sovereignty. Foundation of Moral Obligation. The Doctrine of the Apostolic Church Human Government. Covenant Duties. Covenanting a Duty. Moral Government. The Same Necessary and Eternal Different Relations Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. The General Conference of 1840 Resources What does it mean to praise the Lord? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to praise God? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between praise and worship? | GotQuestions.org Praise: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Praise for God's Goodness to Individuals Praise for God's Goodness to Righteous Men Praise is a Part of Public Worship Praise is Due to God on Account of all Spiritual Blessings Praise is Due to God on Account of all Temporal Blessings Praise is Due to God on Account of Answering Prayer Praise is Due to God on Account of Constant Preservation Praise is Due to God on Account of Deliverance Praise is Due to God on Account of Fulfilling of his Promises Praise is Due to God on Account of His Consolation Praise is Due to God on Account of His Counsel Praise is Due to God on Account of His Excellency Praise is Due to God on Account of His Faithfulness and Truth Praise is Due to God on Account of His Glory Praise is Due to God on Account of His Goodness Praise is Due to God on Account of His Greatness Praise is Due to God on Account of His Holiness Praise is Due to God on Account of His Judgment Praise is Due to God on Account of His Loving-Kindness and Truth Praise is Due to God on Account of His Majesty Praise is Due to God on Account of His Mercy Praise is Due to God on Account of His Power Praise is Due to God on Account of His Salvation Praise is Due to God on Account of His Wisdom Praise is Due to God on Account of His Wonderful Works Praise is Due to God on Account of Pardon of Sin Praise is Due to God on Account of Protection Praise is Due to God on Account of Spiritual Health Praise is Due to God on Account of The Continuance of Blessings Praise is Due to God on Account of The Hope of Glory Praise is Obligatory Upon: All Creation Praise is Obligatory Upon: All Men Praise is Obligatory Upon: Angels Praise is Obligatory Upon: Children Praise is Obligatory Upon: Gentiles Praise is Obligatory Upon: High and Low Praise is Obligatory Upon: Saints Praise is Obligatory Upon: Small and Great Praise is Obligatory Upon: Young and Old Praise of David: At the Close of his Reign Praise of David: Celebrating his Deliverance from the Hand of Saul Praise of David: On Bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Zion Praise of Deborah, After Defeating the Canaanites Praise: Acceptable Through Christ Praise: Accompanied With Musical Instruments Praise: Called The: Calves of the Lips Praise: Called The: Fruit of the Lips Praise: Called The: Garment of Praise Praise: Called The: Sacrifice of Praise Praise: Called The: Sacrifices of Joy Praise: Called The: Voice of a Psalm Praise: Called The: Voice of Melody Praise: Called The: Voice of Praise Praise: Called The: Voice of Triumph Praise: Psalms of, for God's Goodness to Israel Praise: Saints should be Endued With the Spirit of Praise: Saints should Express Their Joy By Praise: Saints should Glory In Praise: Saints should Invite Others To Praise: Saints should Posture Suited To Praise: Saints should Pray for Ability to offer Praise: Saints should Render, Under Affliction Praise: Saints should Show Forth Praise: Saints should Triumph In Praise: should be offered for Ever and Ever Praise: should be offered in Psalms and Hymns Praise: should be offered with Gladness Praise: should be offered with Joy Praise: should be offered with Thankfulness Praise: should be offered with the Lips Praise: should be offered with the Mouth Praise: should be offered with the Soul Praise: should be offered with the Understanding Praise: should be offered with the Whole Heart Praise: should be offered with Uprightness of Heart Praise: should be offered: Continually Praise: should be offered: Day and Night Praise: should be offered: Day by Day Praise: should be offered: During Life Praise: should be offered: More and More Praise: should be offered: Throughout the World Praise: Song of Moses, After the Passage Through the Red Sea Praise: The Chorus when Solomon Brought the Ark of the Covenant Into the Temple Praise: The Heavenly Host Engage In Praise: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms Praise-offering (5 Occurrences) |
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