Biblical Commentary:What does Psalm chapter 98 mean?
Chapter Context
This psalm may have been inspired by a specific victory over one of Israel's enemies. Another possibility is celebrating the return of exiled Jewish people (Ezra 2:1). It is one of the "enthronement" psalms (Psalm 24; 27; 93; 95—99) which honor God as the ultimate ruler over the entire world. As with similar psalms, this song anticipates the Lord coming to earth in righteous judgment.
What does Psalm chapter 98 mean?
Psalms 15, 24, 27, 93, 95—97, and 99 are "enthronement" psalms. Psalm 98 is also in this category of songs rejoicing over God's rule over the world. Many look ahead to the future when the Lord will reign directly over the earth in person (Revelation 20:4). This song may refer to a particular event, such as a victory in battle. Another possibility is that it celebrates the return of Jewish people from Babylonian exile (Ezra 2:1).
The psalmist credits God with accomplishing salvation, in a way which the entire world can witness. This is done by God's power alone. The "right hand" is a common ancient reference to someone's primary power. In this case, the Lord uses His might to bring about His desired results. This demonstrates His loyal love for the people of Israel (Psalm 98:1–3).
In response to these amazing acts, the entire world is called to worship. That includes all forms of instruments. The psalmist uses the common phrase "joyful noise" to refer to loud, enthusiastic praise. The intense motivation behind this is shown in using the phrase "break forth;" the desire to honor God ought to overflow and burst out of a thankful heart (Psalm 98:4–6).
As humanity praises, the natural world echoes that worship. People should be glad to know that the Lord reigns, as is all His creation. Part of this symbolic natural noise is awareness that God is coming to earth for judgment. This looks ahead to the end times: when the Lord will bring perfect and inescapable justice to the world. When that happens, all people will be blessed by the rule of a God who does all things rightly (Psalm 98:7–9).
