Psalm 98:1

Sing to the LORD a new song, for He has done wonders; His right hand and holy arm have gained Him the victory.

Study Bible

A Psalm.
This designation indicates that the text is a sacred song or hymn, part of the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of religious songs, prayers, and poems. The Psalms were used in ancient Israelite worship and continue to be central in Jewish and Christian liturgies. The term "Psalm" comes from the Greek "psalmos," meaning a song sung to the accompaniment of a harp or lyre, reflecting the musical nature of these compositions.

Sing to the LORD a new song,
The call to sing a "new song" suggests a fresh expression of praise and worship, often in response to a new act of divine deliverance or revelation. This phrase is used in several other Psalms (e.g., Psalm 33:3, 96:1) and in Revelation (5:9, 14:3), indicating a theme of renewal and the ongoing work of God. The "new song" signifies a response to God's continuous and dynamic interaction with His people, inviting them to recognize and celebrate His ongoing acts of salvation.

for He has done wonders;
The "wonders" refer to God's miraculous deeds and mighty acts throughout history, such as the creation, the Exodus, and other instances of divine intervention. These acts demonstrate God's power and faithfulness to His covenant people. The term "wonders" is often associated with the miraculous events that reveal God's sovereignty and serve as a testament to His glory and might (Exodus 15:11, Psalm 77:14).

His right hand and holy arm
The "right hand" and "holy arm" are symbolic of God's power and authority. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand was often associated with strength and skill. The "holy arm" emphasizes God's purity and righteousness in executing His will. These terms are anthropomorphic, attributing human characteristics to God to convey His active involvement in the world. They are also seen in Isaiah 52:10, where God's arm is bared in the sight of all nations, signifying His readiness to act on behalf of His people.

have gained Him the victory.
The victory mentioned here is a testament to God's triumph over His enemies and the deliverance of His people. This victory is not just military but also spiritual, reflecting God's ultimate authority over all creation. The concept of divine victory is prevalent throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). This phrase reassures believers of God's sovereign control and His ability to bring about His purposes despite opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, Yahweh is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. He is the one to whom the new song is sung.

2. The Psalmist
The author of the psalm, traditionally attributed to David, who calls the people to worship and praise God for His mighty acts.

3. Marvelous Things
Refers to the wondrous deeds and acts of salvation performed by God, which are the reason for the new song of praise.

4. Right Hand and Holy Arm
Symbolic of God's power and strength. In Hebrew culture, the right hand often signifies authority and action, while the holy arm represents divine intervention and salvation.

5. Salvation
The deliverance and victory that God has achieved for His people, a central theme in the psalm and throughout the Bible.

Teaching Points

The Call to Worship
We are invited to sing a new song to the LORD, which signifies a fresh expression of praise and gratitude for His ongoing work in our lives.

Recognizing God's Marvelous Works
Reflect on the specific ways God has worked marvelously in your life and community. Acknowledge His hand in both the grand and the subtle.

God's Power and Salvation
Trust in the strength of God's right hand and holy arm. His power is sufficient for our salvation and deliverance from any situation.

Continual Renewal in Worship
Our worship should be continually renewed as we experience God's grace and mercy daily. Let each day bring a new reason to praise Him.

Living in the Light of Salvation
As recipients of God's salvation, live in a way that reflects His marvelous works, sharing His love and truth with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to sing a "new song" to the LORD, and how can this be applied in our personal and corporate worship today?

2. How have you experienced God's "marvelous things" in your life, and how can you share these testimonies with others?

3. In what ways does the imagery of God's "right hand" and "holy arm" provide comfort and assurance in times of trouble?

4. How does the theme of salvation in Psalm 98:1 connect with the broader account of redemption throughout the Bible?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced God's deliverance. How did it impact your faith and relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 52:10
This verse speaks of the LORD's holy arm being revealed to all nations, emphasizing God's power and salvation being made known universally.

Revelation 5:9
The call to sing a new song is echoed in the heavenly worship scene, where the Lamb is praised for His redemptive work.

Exodus 15:1
The song of Moses after the crossing of the Red Sea is an example of a new song sung in response to God's deliverance.