Psalm 98:7

Let the sea resound, and all that fills it, the world, and all who dwell in it.

Study Bible

Let the sea resound
The imagery of the sea resounding is a powerful metaphor for the majesty and power of God. In biblical times, the sea often represented chaos and the unknown, yet here it is called to praise God, indicating His sovereignty over all creation. This echoes the creation narrative in Genesis, where God brings order to chaos. The sea's resounding can also be seen as a type of the nations acknowledging God's rule, as the sea often symbolizes the Gentile nations in prophetic literature (e.g., Isaiah 17:12).

and all that fills it
This phrase emphasizes the fullness of creation participating in worship. It includes marine life and all elements within the sea, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's dominion. The inclusion of all that fills the sea points to the interconnectedness of creation and its collective purpose to glorify God. This can be connected to Romans 8:19-22, where creation eagerly awaits the revelation of the children of God, indicating a future restoration and harmony.

the world
The term "world" here refers to the earth and its inhabitants, extending the call to worship beyond the sea to the entire planet. This universal call to praise reflects the biblical theme of God's global reign and His desire for all nations to acknowledge Him. It aligns with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, underscoring the inclusivity of God's kingdom.

and all who dwell in it
This phrase includes every living being, emphasizing the personal responsibility of individuals to recognize and worship God. It reflects the biblical teaching that all humanity is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and is therefore called to reflect His glory. The call for all inhabitants to join in praise anticipates the eschatological vision in Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne of God, worshiping Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sea
Represents the vastness of creation and the power of God as Creator. In biblical literature, the sea often symbolizes chaos and the unknown, yet here it is called to praise God, indicating His sovereignty over all creation.

2. The World
Refers to the earth and its inhabitants. It emphasizes the inclusivity of God's creation in worship, highlighting that all of creation is called to acknowledge and glorify God.

3. All Who Dwell in It
This phrase includes every living being, human and animal, emphasizing the universal call to worship God. It reflects the idea that all life is interconnected and dependent on the Creator.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
Recognize that God is sovereign over all aspects of creation, including the vast and powerful sea. This should lead us to trust in His control over the chaos in our lives.

Universal Call to Worship
Understand that worship is not limited to humans but is a universal call to all creation. This should inspire us to live in harmony with nature and acknowledge God's handiwork in all things.

Interconnectedness of Creation
Reflect on the interconnectedness of all living things and our responsibility to care for the environment as stewards of God's creation.

Joyful Praise
Embrace the joy and exuberance in worship, as even the sea and the world are called to resound with praise. Let this joy permeate our daily lives and interactions with others.

Anticipation of Redemption
Look forward to the ultimate redemption and restoration of creation, as promised in Scripture, and live in hope and expectation of God's future work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing God's sovereignty over the sea and all creation impact your trust in Him during chaotic times in your life?

2. In what ways can you join with creation in worshiping God in your daily life?

3. How does the interconnectedness of all creation influence your perspective on environmental stewardship?

4. What are some practical ways you can express joyful praise to God, inspired by the imagery of the sea and world resounding with worship?

5. How does the anticipation of creation's redemption shape your understanding of God's plan for the world and your role in it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1
The creation account where God brings order to chaos, including the separation of the sea and land, establishing His authority over all creation.

Psalm 24:1
This verse echoes the theme of God's ownership and sovereignty over the earth and everything in it, reinforcing the call for all creation to worship Him.

Romans 8:19-22
Paul speaks of creation eagerly awaiting the revelation of the children of God, indicating that creation itself is involved in God's redemptive plan and will ultimately be restored.