Psalm 67
Read Psalm 67
Helpful Background Information:
When it comes to the topic of spreading the gospel, there is often a misconception that doing so is only found in the New Testament or that Old Testament Israel was never commanded to do so. However, that ignores the rich Old Testament passages that state explicitly that Israel had the glorious mission of spreading the glory of God to the nations!
One of those passages is Psalm 67, often referred to as the “Great Commission of the Old Testament.” Although the author of this particular Psalm is unknown, the Psalmist prays that God would bless Israel for a particular purpose: “so that your way may be known on the earth, your salvation among all the nations” (Psalm 67:2, CSB). This reminded the Israelites of one of the precious promises God made to Abraham all the way back in Genesis 12:3, “I will bless those who bless you, I will curse anyone who treats you with contempt, and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Simply put, being in a saving relationship with God was never exclusive to Israel, but the Israelites were to spread it to all the nations surrounding them. The command given to Israel in the Old Covenant would be fulfilled in greater proportion by the church in the New Covenant - made possible by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Much in the same way, this is the marching orders of the Christian faith, as seen in the Great Commission in Matthew’s Gospel and our sermon passage for the week. God has been gracious to us and blessed us in Christ, so that his saving power may be known through all the nations!
Reflection Questions:
How does seeing Israel’s calling to bless the nations (Genesis 12:3; Psalm 67) shape your understanding of God’s heart for fallen humanity throughout the whole Bible?
How does this help you understand the New Testament in relation to the Old Testament?
In Psalm 67, the psalmist asks for God’s grace, blessing, and presence “so that” His way may be known among the nations. How can God’s grace/blessings/presence in your life make the glory of God known to others this week? Name 3 specific examples.