Psalm 98 Commentary
The lyrics have changed; the song is, therefore, different. The LORD had done something new. The song is, therefore, new. Let the saint sing this new song.
So what is the big news to explain the psalmist’s exuberance?
The psalmist is jubilant because of the salvation of the LORD, the marvelous deeds of the LORD. He breaks forth into praise. He marvels at the wonderful works of salvation, the love of the LORD, and His faithfulness.
The psalmist is loud and noisy. He hits some objects while blowing into others – the things we may call musical instruments. Holy pandemonium! He blasts the ram’s horn!
But he wants more. Let the sea resound – the mighty waters. Let there be noise everywhere, including the mountains!
Surely, the biggest day in history here.
This is how the psalmist reacts to God’s salvation. The famous exodus would probably fit this grand event. It wasn’t hidden. It was characterized by both God’s right hand and God’s holy arm. It is a direct reference to God’s strength and God’s holiness – the otherness of God.
Salvation comes with the power to stay away from slavery and be separate.
Saints can look at their own salvation and seek a deeper understanding. What does it mean to be saved? Where is the joy of salvation? Do I understand what I have been saved from? Is there power over sin? Is there holiness?
The marvelous things, wonderful things; the impossible now becoming possible. Staying separate and in holiness, and enjoying power over sin. It is the salvation of the LORD!
The psalmist switches tenses; he talks about future judgment. The LORD will make everything square once again. The LORD is never absent from time and space. He remains in control. Let the saint rejoice in the salvation of the Creator God, the LORD God Almighty.
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