Psalms 117ESV
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Psalms117

English Standard Version

1 the Lord, ! him, !

2 is his us, and the of the Lord . the Lord!

Study Guide

Public-domain commentary and original-language notes for Psalms 117.

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Chapter Summary

In this chapter: All people called upon to praise God. (1-2).

vv1-2

Here is a solemn call to all nations to praise the Lord, and proper matter for that praise is suggested. We are soon weary of well-doing, if we keep not up the pious and devout affections with which the spiritual sacrifice of praise ought to be kindled and kept burning. This is a gospel psalm. The apostle, Ro 15:11, quotes it as a proof that the gospel was to be preached to the Gentile nations, and that it would be entertained by them. For many ages, in Judah only was God known, and his name praised; this call was not then given to any Gentiles. But the gospel of Christ is ordered to be preached to all nations, and by him those that were afar off are made nigh. We are among the persons to whom the Holy Spirit here speaks, whom he calls upon to join his ancient people in praising the Lord. Grace has thus abounded to millions of perishing sinners. Let us then listen to the offers of the grace of God, and pray for that time when all nations of the earth shall show forth his praises. And let us bless God for the unsearchable riches of gospel grace.

Cross References

Psalms 117
v1Romans 15:11quotation

Explicitly quoted by Paul to prove the prophetic calling of the Gentile nations to praise God.

Supported by Matthew Henry, Matthew Poole, John Calvin, JFB

v2Romans 15:8thematic

Connects Christ's ministry to the truth and mercy of God, confirming promises made to the fathers.

Supported by John Calvin

v2Romans 15:9thematic

Links the Gentiles glorifying God for His mercy to the Old Testament praise passages.

Supported by John Calvin

v1Psalms 86:9thematic

Prophesies that all nations shall come and worship before the Lord and glorify His name.

Supported by John Calvin

v2Psalms 100:5thematic

Parallels the dual themes of the Lord's mercy and everlasting truth.

v1Psalms 67:3thematic

Repeats the urgent call for all peoples and nations to praise God.

v1Revelation 15:4thematic

An eschatological fulfillment of all nations coming to worship and glorify God's name.

v2Micah 7:20thematic

Associates God's truth to Jacob and His mercy to Abraham as enduring attributes.