Psalms 22:23 Interpretation

Verse: "Ye that fear the LORD, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel."

Summary of Meaning

This verse serves as both a call to worship and an exhortation for those who revere the Lord to take an active role in glorifying Him. The psalmist addresses those who "fear the LORD," indicating a relationship defined by reverence and awe. In both the context of this psalm and the broader biblical narrative, the fear of the Lord is a foundational aspect of faith that leads to praise and glorification of God.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry emphasizes that this verse highlights the importance of the community of believers—specifically, the "seed of Jacob" and "seed of Israel." He notes that this invitation to praise is inclusive, binding all who identify with the covenant people in an act of worship. The fear of the Lord is a central theme in the psalm, suggesting that true worship emerges from a profound respect for God’s majesty and holiness.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Barnes points out that the phrase "ye that fear the LORD" is an address to a specific group who acknowledge God's authority and power. He underscores the significance of glorifying God as an essential characteristic of a faithful life. Barnes encourages believers to embody this call to praise, both in public worship and private devotion, reiterating the necessity of recognizing God's greatness.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke expounds on the historical context of this verse within the psalm, which is often seen as a lament that transitions into praise. He notes that it reflects the dual nature of the psalmist's experience—sorrow in affliction but eventual joy through reliance on God. Clarke also discusses the meaning of “glorify him” as being an active engagement in worship that reflects a life transformed by recognizing God's work among His people.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This verse connects to broader themes in scripture, particularly regarding worship, reverence, and the community of believers. Those who fear the Lord are called to glorify Him, which is a recurring principle throughout the Bible.

Cross-References for Psalms 22:23

• Psalm 34:9: "O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him."
• Isaiah 29:23: "But when he seeth his children, the work of mine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel."
• Hebrews 12:28: "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear."
• Romans 12:1: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
• Psalm 115:13: "He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great."
• Philippians 2:10: "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth."
• Matthew 5:16: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Understanding Connections Between Bible Verses

The concept of fearing the Lord and glorifying Him connects various verses across both the Old and New Testaments. This inter-Biblical dialogue deepens the understanding of how reverence affects both individual and communal worship practices.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing enhances one's ability to explore the thematic Bible verse connections present in scripture. Resources such as Bible concordance and Bible cross-reference guides can help individuals engage in more profound comparative Bible verse analysis.

Application to Daily Life

Understanding Psalms 22:23 calls believers to reflect on their relationship with God. Engaging in worship and honoring God through actions and words is a vital aspect of living out one’s faith.

Conclusion

Psalms 22:23 encapsulates a powerful call for those who fear the Lord to glorify Him. By examining the insights from respected biblical scholars and cross-referencing this verse with related scriptures, one gains a deeper appreciation of its message and an enriched understanding of the role of reverence in faith.