Purpose

To provide a songbook for worship and express the full range of human emotions in relationship with God.

Author

Multiple authors over 1,000 years. David wrote nearly half (73 psalms), often during his years as a shepherd, warrior, and king. Other contributors include worship leaders, musicians, and poets.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-400 BC. Israel's worship songs covering 1,000 years of history from Moses to the exile.

Significance

The Bible's prayer book and hymnal, showing us how to relate to God honestly in every circumstance.

Key Themes

Worship, Prayer, God's Character, Trust, Deliverance

Interesting Facts

• Psalms is the longest book in the Bible with 150 chapters
• Jesus quoted Psalms more than any other Old Testament book
• Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible (2 verses)

Prophecies

• Messianic psalms predicting Christ's suffering and glory (Psalms 22, 69, 110, etc.) Fulfilled: Jesus fulfilled these in His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension (1000 years later)

Psalm 100 stands as a timeless invitation to jubilant worship, encapsulating the essence of gratitude and reverence towards God. This psalm is often referred to as a 'Psalm for giving thanks,' and it serves as a powerful reminder of the relationship between God and His people. The chapter opens with a compelling exhortation to all the earth to make a joyful noise to the Lord, emphasizing that worship is a universal call, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. The psalmist urges believers to serve the Lord with gladness, highlighting that worship is not merely a duty but a joyful act of service. The joyous entry into God’s presence is underscored by singing, suggesting that worship should stem from a heart filled with joy and gratitude. As the psalm progresses, it invites the worshiper to recognize the sovereignty of God. The acknowledgment that 'the Lord, he is God' is foundational to understanding our identity as His creation. This recognition infers a relationship characterized by belonging—'we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.' This metaphor conveys the intimacy and care God has for His followers, illustrating that He is both Creator and Shepherd, guiding and providing for His flock. The psalm culminates in an invitation to enter God’s gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. This imagery reflects the temple worship practices of ancient Israel, where the act of entering was accompanied by an attitude of gratitude. The psalmist emphasizes the importance of thankfulness and blessing God’s name, reinforcing that worship is an expression of acknowledgment for God’s goodness. The closing verse encapsulates the enduring nature of God’s goodness, steadfast love, and faithfulness through all generations, assuring worshipers of His unchanging character. Thus, Psalm 100 serves as both a declaration of God’s attributes and a call to respond with heartfelt praise and thanksgiving.