The phrase "from where the sun rises to where it sets" is a biblical expression that signifies the entirety of the earth, encompassing all nations and peoples. This phrase is often used to convey the universality of God's sovereignty, the reach of His glory, and the call for worship and reverence from all corners of the world.

Biblical References:

1. Psalm 113:3 : "From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the LORD is to be praised." This verse emphasizes the continuous and universal nature of worship due to God. It suggests that from the east to the west, throughout the entire day, God's name is worthy of praise. The psalmist calls for a recognition of God's majesty and authority over all creation.

2. Malachi 1:11 : "For My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to My name, because My name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD of Hosts." Here, the prophet Malachi speaks of a future time when God's name will be honored globally. This prophecy points to the spread of true worship beyond Israel to all nations, indicating the inclusivity of God's covenant and the anticipated reverence for Him worldwide.

3. Isaiah 45:6 : "so that all may know from where the sun rises to where it sets that there is none but Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other." In this passage, God declares His uniqueness and supreme authority. The phrase underscores the comprehensive acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, affirming that He alone is God over the entire earth.

Theological Significance:

The use of this phrase in Scripture highlights the omnipresence and omnipotence of God. It serves as a reminder that God's dominion is not limited to a specific geographic location or people group but extends to all creation. This universality is a central theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting God's desire for all nations to come to know Him and worship Him.

In the context of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), the phrase can also be seen as a call to evangelism, urging believers to spread the gospel message to every part of the world. The imagery of the sun rising and setting encapsulates the idea of a global mission, where the knowledge of God and His salvation is to be proclaimed to the ends of the earth.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the sun was often associated with deities and was a symbol of power and life. By using the imagery of the sun's path, the biblical authors effectively communicated God's supreme authority over all other gods and powers. This expression would have resonated with contemporary audiences, affirming the LORD's unparalleled greatness and the futility of idol worship.

Application for Believers:

For believers today, the phrase "from where the sun rises to where it sets" serves as a call to recognize God's sovereignty in every aspect of life. It encourages a lifestyle of worship and reverence, acknowledging God's presence and authority in all circumstances. Additionally, it inspires a commitment to participate in God's mission, sharing His love and truth with people from every nation and culture.