psalm 100

This psalm is often known as the ‘Jubilate’, which is Latin for ‘O be joyful’. It is one of the most popular and often-used psalms for public worship. Here is an invitation to the whole earth (not just separate ‘lands’) to offer a great shout of joy to the Lord, and to enter his presence, singing with uninhibited joy! It may originally have been a psalm for bringing a thank-offering. The joyful shout is that of a crowd offering loyalty and welcome to a king. It is not to be given lightly, as it implies a total commitment. The people of Israel shouted in such a way when Saul became their king (1 Samuel 10:24). It is a fanfare of human hearts and voices. This is a psalm of vast and eternal perspective. God has made us and we belong to him. We are his people, his sheep. His love and purpose cover the whole context of our lives, both now and forever. To worship this God is also to serve him with our whole self (Romans 12:1). Knowing that the Lord is God is a sure foundation for our praise. We are secure in his creation and saving love. We are sure of his welcome. We belong to him. It is because God has made us and he welcomes us that we can come into his presence with such confidence and praise. The courts are the courts of the temple, where nothing unholy is allowed—and yet we may enter. This is God’s house, his place—and we can come in! Finally, the psalmist realizes that this privilege is ongoing. God’s nature doesn’t change, so his goodness will continue. His love will last forever. This invitation to acknowledge him is to all people, in every place and age. Here is the simple small outline of the chapter.

I.    God Is the Song v. 1-2 -We are his singers.

II.  God Is the Creator v. 3-We are his creation.

III. God Is the Shepherd v. 3-We are his sheep.

IV. God Is the Blessed One v. 4-We are his blessed ones.

V.  God Is Love v. 5-We are his loved ones.