Psalm 22:23 – “You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor him! Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, David is calling on God’s people to offer their praise and reverence to God. He specifically addresses “you who fear the Lord,” which includes all who hold God in awe and live with a heart inclined toward obedience. David’s call is to both praise and honor God, acknowledging His greatness and faithfulness. Here, “descendants of Jacob” and “descendants of Israel” refer to the people of Israel, emphasizing that this call to worship is directed to God’s chosen people. David encourages his listeners to respect God not only with outward praise but also with a deep, inward reverence.
Historical Context
Psalm 22 begins as a lament, with David expressing feelings of abandonment and intense suffering. As the psalm progresses, however, David’s focus shifts from his pain to praising God. By verse 23, David is no longer solely focused on his own experience; instead, he turns to the larger community, calling them to worship. In Israel, public worship and reverence for God were central aspects of life and faith. This call to “fear the Lord” reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where reverence and honor for God were part of their identity as His chosen people.
Theological Implications
This verse points to the foundational truth that God is worthy of praise, honor, and reverence from His people. For Christians, it serves as a reminder that God deserves our worship not only because of what He has done but because of who He is. The fear of the Lord, as expressed in Scripture, is about a deep respect and recognition of His holiness, authority, and love. Theologically, this call to praise reflects God’s worthiness and our role as His people to honor Him in all areas of our lives. It is a reminder that worship isn’t limited to personal moments but is also a communal experience of honoring God together.
Literary Analysis
In the structure of Psalm 22, this verse is part of a shift from personal lament to corporate worship. The psalm moves from individual suffering to a communal expression of praise. Words like “praise,” “honor,” and “revere” emphasize different aspects of worship, highlighting praise as a joyful acknowledgment, honor as recognition of worth, and reverence as a deep respect. This threefold call to worship reflects the full nature of worship—emotional, intellectual, and spiritual. By addressing “descendants of Jacob” and “descendants of Israel,” David unites the community in their shared heritage and commitment to God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 10:12 – “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.” This verse captures the heart of what it means to fear and honor God.
- Psalm 34:9 – “Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing.” Here, fearing the Lord is tied to God’s provision and blessing.
- 1 Peter 2:17 – “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” Peter echoes the call to revere God, showing it as central to a faithful life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 22:23 is a call to sincere and wholehearted worship. It reminds us that worship isn’t just a Sunday activity or a song we sing; it’s an expression of our deep respect and love for God in everything we do. This verse calls us to honor God in our actions, attitudes, and words. In a world that often overlooks or even mocks reverence for God, this verse encourages believers to keep God at the center, holding Him in high regard in both private and public life. It also reminds us of the importance of gathering as a community to praise and honor God together.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse calls us to respond to God’s love with honor and reverence. God is not distant or harsh; He is a loving Father who desires to be near His people. When we “fear the Lord,” we’re acknowledging His greatness and, at the same time, His compassion and grace. Revering God doesn’t stem from fear of punishment but from an understanding of His power, holiness, and care for His people. God’s love invites us to honor Him, and our response in worship reflects a relationship built on both respect and love.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills this call to worship by teaching us how to honor and revere God through our lives. Jesus’ own life was a perfect example of fearing the Lord—He honored and obeyed His Father in everything, even to the point of giving His life. Through His sacrifice, Jesus brings believers into the family of God, where we too are called to worship, praise, and honor God. Hebrews 2:12, which quotes Psalm 22:22, ties this call to worship directly to Jesus, showing that through Him, we are invited to participate in this declaration of praise. Jesus brings us into this relationship with God where we can freely and wholeheartedly honor Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you understand “fearing the Lord” in your own life? What does it look like in practice?
- In what ways can you bring honor to God in your daily activities?
- Why do you think it’s important for worship to be both a personal and communal experience?
- How can we, as a church, better create a culture of reverence for God?
- How does Jesus’ example inspire you to live with a heart that honors God?
Psalm 22:23 reminds us of the privilege and joy of honoring God with our whole hearts. It’s a call to worship that transcends generations, inviting all who know God to join in heartfelt praise and reverence. This verse encourages us to live in a way that reflects the greatness of God, honoring Him in everything we do and, together as His people, declaring His name with joy and respect.