Psalms 135:5 – “I know that the Lord is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 135:5 is a declaration of God’s greatness and superiority over all other so-called gods. The psalmist confidently proclaims that the Lord is not just good or powerful but is truly the greatest. This verse highlights that the God of Israel is supreme over all other spiritual entities or idols that people might worship.
The phrase “I know” suggests a deep, personal conviction. It reflects a faith that goes beyond mere knowledge to a lived experience of God’s greatness. The psalmist isn’t just repeating what he has heard from others; he speaks from a place of assurance rooted in what he has seen and understood about God’s power, faithfulness, and love.
Historical Context
Psalm 135 was likely used in the context of temple worship, where the people of Israel would gather to celebrate God’s mighty works. Throughout their history, the Israelites were surrounded by nations that worshiped various gods and idols. In contrast, they were called to worship the one true God who had delivered them from Egypt, provided for them in the wilderness, and brought them into the Promised Land.
This verse reflects the strong monotheistic belief of the Israelites. Despite the many gods worshiped by their neighbors, Israel was set apart to worship the Lord alone. The psalmist’s declaration would have served as a reminder to the people of Israel that no matter what other nations believed, their God was the one true God, greater than any other.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 135:5 affirms the absolute sovereignty of God. It emphasizes that there is no power, force, or deity that can rival the Lord. This belief in God’s unmatched greatness is foundational to the faith of Israel and, by extension, to Christianity today.
The verse also points to the futility of idolatry. In a world where people often place their trust in false gods—whether they be literal idols or modern equivalents like money, status, or power—this verse calls believers back to the truth that the Lord alone is worthy of worship. It is a reminder that God is not one option among many but the only true and living God.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 135:5 uses straightforward, declarative language to make a powerful point. The repetition of “great” and “greater than all gods” creates emphasis, leaving no room for doubt about the psalmist’s conviction. This verse serves as a central theme in the psalm, which goes on to recount the mighty acts of God in history, demonstrating His greatness.
The structure of the verse, with its confident tone, invites readers to not just agree intellectually but to adopt the same deep conviction that the psalmist has. The use of personal language (“I know”) makes it relatable, encouraging believers to reflect on their own experiences of God’s greatness.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 4:39: “Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.”
- Psalm 95:3: “For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.”
- Isaiah 45:5: “I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God.”
- 1 Corinthians 8:4: “We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one.”
- Philippians 2:9-11: Jesus is exalted to the highest place, above every name.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 135:5 is a reminder to put our trust in God alone, especially in a world filled with distractions and competing “gods.” While modern idols may not be statues of wood and stone, people today often place their hope in money, relationships, technology, or status. This verse calls us back to the truth that only God is truly great and worthy of our devotion.
Knowing that the Lord is greater than all other powers can bring peace and confidence, especially in uncertain times. When we understand that God is in control, we don’t have to fear the future or be overwhelmed by life’s challenges. This verse challenges us to examine where we place our trust and to reaffirm our faith in God as the only true source of security.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 135:5 reflects God’s desire to be known and worshiped as the one true God. In declaring that the Lord is great, the psalmist is not just making a statement about God’s power but also about His character. God’s greatness is not just about His strength but also about His love, mercy, and faithfulness.
God’s greatness is shown in how He cares for His people. The fact that He is greater than all other gods means that He alone has the power to save, protect, and provide for those who trust in Him. His love is not limited or weakened by other forces; it is supreme and everlasting.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God’s greatness. Through Jesus, we see the fullness of God’s power, love, and mercy displayed. When we proclaim that the Lord is greater than all gods, we also acknowledge that Jesus, who is one with the Father, has been given authority over all things (Matthew 28:18).
Jesus demonstrated God’s greatness by defeating sin and death through His resurrection. As Philippians 2:9-11 states, God has exalted Jesus to the highest place, and every knee will bow to Him. In Christ, we see that God’s greatness is not just about power but also about sacrificial love. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate proof that our God is truly greater than all others.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are some “gods” or idols in your life that compete for your attention?
- How have you experienced God’s greatness in your own life?
- In what ways can you remind yourself of God’s sovereignty when you face difficulties?
- How can knowing that God is greater than all other powers bring you peace in challenging times?
- What steps can you take to deepen your conviction that God is truly great?
Psalm 135:5 challenges us to boldly declare, “I know that the Lord is great.” Let’s live each day with that confidence, knowing that our God is above all and that He is worthy of all our praise.