Psalm 147:20 – “He has done this for no other nation; they do not know his laws. Praise the Lord.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 147:20 emphasizes the unique relationship God had with Israel. In this verse, the psalmist points out that God did something special for Israel that He did not do for other nations. God revealed His laws, commands, and His word specifically to Israel, giving them guidance and a way to live that other nations did not receive. This was a privilege that came with great responsibility.
The phrase “they do not know his laws” refers to the other nations who did not have the direct revelation of God’s commandments like Israel did. Because of this special relationship, the psalm concludes with an exhortation to praise God. Israel was to recognize and celebrate the privilege of having been chosen by God to receive His word and His laws.
Historical Context
The Israelites were chosen by God to be His special people, set apart from other nations. This relationship began with Abraham and was further solidified when God gave Moses the Law on Mount Sinai. The Law was meant to guide Israel on how to live in a way that pleased God, to set them apart as a holy nation.
In ancient times, many nations followed their own traditions and idols. However, Israel was unique because they had received a direct revelation from the one true God. The Law was not just a set of rules; it was God’s way of showing His people how to live in a close relationship with Him. By following these laws, Israel would reflect God’s character to the surrounding nations.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s sovereignty in choosing Israel to receive His laws. It reminds us that God’s ways are beyond our understanding, and He chooses to reveal Himself in ways that align with His purposes. God’s decision to reveal His laws to Israel was not because of anything they had done but because of His grace and love.
Theologically, it also underscores the importance of revelation. Without God’s revelation, no one would know how to live in a way that pleases Him. This verse shows that knowing God’s laws is a gift, not something that humanity can discover on its own. God initiated the relationship, and His laws were a way for His people to live in harmony with Him.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 147:20 uses contrast to highlight the uniqueness of Israel’s relationship with God. By stating that God did not reveal His laws to any other nation, the psalmist emphasizes how special it was for Israel to be chosen. The structure of the verse builds up to the final phrase, “Praise the Lord,” showing that the appropriate response to God’s goodness is worship.
The straightforward language of the verse underscores the clear distinction between Israel and the other nations. It draws attention to the fact that Israel had a special role in God’s plan, which came with both blessings and responsibilities.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 4:7-8 – “What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?”
- Highlights the uniqueness of Israel’s relationship with God.
- Romans 9:4-5 – “Theirs is the adoption to sonship; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises.”
- Paul speaks of the privileges that God gave to Israel.
- Amos 3:2 – “You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins.”
- Indicates the special relationship and responsibility that came with being chosen by God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 147:20 is a reminder that having access to God’s word is a precious gift. Just as God revealed His laws to Israel, He has given us the complete Bible to guide us. We should not take this gift for granted but see it as an opportunity to know God’s heart and His will for our lives.
This verse also challenges us to recognize the responsibility that comes with knowing God’s word. Just as Israel was called to live according to God’s laws, we are called to live according to the teachings of Scripture. It’s not enough to just know God’s word; we must also live it out in our daily lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 147:20 shows that God’s love is expressed through His willingness to reveal Himself. God did not leave humanity in the dark but chose to reveal His laws to Israel as a way to guide them into a relationship with Him. This revelation was a sign of God’s love because it showed that He cared enough to provide clear instructions on how to live in a way that pleases Him.
God’s love is also shown in the way He chooses to draw near to His people. By giving Israel His laws, God was inviting them into a deeper relationship with Him. Today, we see God’s love in the way He continues to reveal Himself through His word and through the life of Jesus Christ.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s revelation. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus came to show us the full meaning of God’s laws and to provide a way for us to live in a right relationship with God.
Through Jesus, God extended the blessings of His revelation beyond Israel to all who believe. In John 1:14, we read, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Jesus is the living Word, God’s ultimate revelation, who came to show us the way to the Father. Through Him, we have access to God’s laws and His grace.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you view the Bible in your daily life? Do you see it as a precious gift from God?
- In what ways can you live out the teachings of God’s word in your everyday actions?
- How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for the privilege of knowing God’s word?
- How does the life of Jesus help you understand the deeper meaning of God’s laws?
- What are some practical steps you can take to deepen your understanding of Scripture?
Psalm 147:20 is a powerful reminder of the privilege we have in knowing God’s word. As we reflect on this verse, may we be inspired to cherish, study, and live according to the truths that God has graciously revealed to us through the Scriptures and through His Son, Jesus Christ.