Psalms 98 — Tyndale Study Notes
Ps.93.1-100.5
These psalms challenge the doubts created by the Exile (see Ps 89) and answer the questions asked in 90:11, 13. The Lord has established a kingdom (Ps 93) that is characterized by the punishment of the wicked (Ps 94), reverent obedience among his people (Ps 95), justice for the poor (Ps 96), celebration in Zion (Ps 97), salvation for Israel (Ps 98), holiness (Ps 99), and praise (Ps 100).
Ps.98.1-9
This psalm celebrates the Lord’s kingship. The Lord is Israel’s true King, its champion and savior. His people sing a new song celebrating his victorious power and faithfulness to them. The Lord displays his righteous rule to all the nations throughout the earth, which will culminate in a worldwide kingdom of justice (98:2, 9). Consequently, all the earth must worship and rejoice together because the Lord is coming (98:4-6).
Ps.98.2-3
The Lord makes known his righteousness and faithfulness (see also Isa 52:10).
Ps.98.4-6
The psalmist invites the whole earth to worship the King (see 96:1).
Ps.98.6
The Temple musicians used trumpets to call people together for meetings (cp. 81:3).
Ps.98.7-9
The created order is personified as rejoicing at the coming of the righteous Judge (see 93:3-4; 96:11-13).