Scripture Guide

Psalm 98

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

Keywords (28)

Scripture (7)

Updated

Sep 8, 2021

AIM Commentary

Ancient Lens

What's the historical context?

Dissolving the Divisions

Generally speaking, the Psalms divide the people of the earth into two groups: “Israel” and “the nations.” Psalm 98 surprisingly ignores that division. It combines Israel’s salvation with the world’s into one whole.

Keeping that in mind, we can view Psalm 98 under three themes. First, the psalmist issues a summons, evidently spoken both to Israel and the nations to “Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things” (98:1, NIV).

Then the same verb occurs twice more in a summons to “all the earth” (vv. 4, 6), accompanied by the celebratory instruments used on a festive occasion,…

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Featured Image

Detail of a 17th century icon of Jesus enthroned by Emmanuel Tzanes (1610-1690). Egg tempera on wood. Byzantine and Christian Museum, Athens.

Christ as king is a popular topic in eastern Christian iconography. He holds the gospel and his hand is making a sign of blessing. In this icon, he is surrounded by symbols of the evangelists (from left to right): a lion for Mark, a man for Matthew, an eagle for John, and an ox for Luke.

Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

C. Hassell Bullock is the Franklin S. Dyrness Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College (IL), where he served with distinction for 36 years. As a renowned scholar in Old Testament studies, particularly in the area of Psalms and Old Testament poetry, Dr. Bullock’s work has made a profound impact on biblical scholarship and Christian ministry. He holds degrees from Samford University (Birmingham, AL), Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA), and Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati, OH), which reflect his deep academic commitment to the Scriptures.

Dr. Bullock is widely recognized for his expertise in the Psalms, contributing significantly to both scholarly and pastoral conversations on the subject. His publications include The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic). His insights into the poetic structure and theological depth of the Psalms have enriched the understanding of these sacred texts for students, scholars, and church leaders alike.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Bullock has also served Presbyterian congregations in Alabama and Illinois over the course of his 40-year teaching and ministry career, blending scholarly insight with pastoral care. He is deeply committed to his family, sharing life with his wife, Rhonda, his college sweetheart. Together, they have raised a son, Scott, and a daughter, and they take great joy in the lives of their five grandchildren.

Dr. Bullock’s legacy continues to inspire students, pastors, and scholars, emphasizing the enduring richness and theological depth of the Psalms and the poetic beauty of the Old Testament. His work remains a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture.

The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic).