Psalms 71:23 - Meaning and Interpretation

Verse: "My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed."

Psalms 71:23 reflects a profound sense of joy and gratitude flowing from the heart of the psalmist. This verse encapsulates the joyous response of a believer whose soul has been redeemed by God. Let us explore the meanings and insights derived from this verse, leveraging insights from renowned public domain commentaries.

Summary of Insights

This psalm is attributed to the aging believer, expressing hope and trust in God amid life’s challenges. Various commentaries shed light on multifaceted aspects of this scripture:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the psalmist's commitment to praise God as a natural response to experiencing divine redemption. The act of singing symbolizes not only joy but also the acknowledgment of God’s salvation. The psalmist’s lips, reflecting a vibrant response, depict the essential nature of worship in the believer’s life.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes highlights the joy associated with the acknowledgment of God’s redemptive work. This joy is not superficial but stems deeply from one's soul, indicating a profound spiritual experience. The mention of the soul reflects its significance in the relationship between the believer and God, suggesting that genuine praise springs from personal redemption.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke provides an analysis of the phrase "my soul, which thou hast redeemed," underscoring the significance of redemption in the life of a believer. This gratitude extends beyond mere emotion; it is an expression of faith in God’s continuous work in and through the believer's life, acknowledging that redemption leads to a life transformed by grace.

Connections to Other Bible Verses

Ps 71:23 resonates deeply with various other scriptures, which collectively emphasize themes of redemption, worship, and joy in the Lord. Below are notable cross-references:

• Psalms 9:14: “That I may show forth all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy salvation.”
• Psalms 30:11-12: “Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness.”
• Psalms 51:12: “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.”
• Psalms 126:3: “The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.”
• Isaiah 51:11: “Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head.”
• Luke 1:68: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people.”
• Revelation 5:9: “And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood.”

Thematic Connections in Scripture

The joy arising from personal redemption portrayed in Psalms 71:23 parallels sentiments in other biblical texts.

• Joyful Praise: The consistent theme of singing and praising God in response to redemption is found throughout the Psalms and the New Testament.
• Redemptive Theme: The act of being redeemed is central to the Christian faith, underpinning the significance of Christ’s atonement as seen in various New Testament writings.
• Isolation and Assurance: Even amidst trials, the assurance of God’s salvation brings joy— this is a recurrent theme found in both Psalms and the teachings of Jesus.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Understanding how to connect verses, such as Psalms 71:23, with other scriptures can enrich one’s study of the Bible. Here are some valuable resources:

• Bible Concordance: A tool that lists words and verses, allowing easy access to related scriptures.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Resources designed to point out interconnections within scripture.
• Comprehensive Bible Cross-Reference Materials: Collections that provide thematic links across various books of the Bible.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methodologies used to engage with scriptures thematically or contextually.

Conclusion

Psalms 71:23 serves as a powerful reminder of the believer's response to God’s redemptive grace through joyful praise and song. By exploring its connections to various biblical texts, one can appreciate the richness of God’s offer of salvation throughout scripture. Cross-referencing these verses provides a comprehensive understanding of themes such as redemption, joy, and worship, enhancing personal study and application of biblical teachings.