Psalms 145:21 KJV

My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.

Previous Verse
« Psalms 145:20
Next Verse
Psalms 146:1 »

Psalms 145:21 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 145:21

Verse: "My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever."

Overview

Psalms 145 is a psalm of praise, attributed to David, celebrating the greatness and goodness of God. This final verse culminates in an exhortation to worship and declare God’s glory. It serves as both a personal affirmation of faith and a universal call to all creation.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of personal testimony in worship. He notes that the psalmist desires to vocalize God's praises, indicating that genuine worship must come from the mouth and heart.

  • Personal Declaration: "My mouth shall speak" highlights the psalmist's intention to actively engage in worship and declare God’s attributes.
  • Universality of Praise: The phrase "let all flesh" implies that praise is not just the duty of a select few but of all humanity.
  • Perpetuity of Worship: The expression "for ever and ever" reflects an eternal commitment to worship, showcasing that the act of praising God transcends earthly time.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes highlights the theological implications of praise. He discusses how this verse serves as an invitation to all creation to acknowledge God's holiness and greatness.

  • Praise as a Duty: Praise is presented as an essential response to God's actions and nature, illustrating a theological principle of creation responding to the Creator.
  • God's Holiness: The title "holy name" underscores the importance of God’s purity and separateness from sin, further challenging humanity to recognize their own unworthiness before God.
  • Collective Worship: Barnes notes that "all flesh" includes each individual, indicating that God’s grace is extended to everyone, encouraging inclusivity in worship practices.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke offers a detailed examination of the implications of this verse. He points out the significance of not merely praising God but also adopting a lifestyle that reflects that praise.

  • Active Participation: "My mouth shall speak" is not just about vocal expressions but also suggests a life lived in testimony of God's goodness.
  • God's Nature and Character: Clarke elaborates on the attributes of God that warrant praise, such as mercy, goodness, and greatness, reinforcing the idea that worship should be informed by God’s character.
  • Generational Praise: By calling all flesh to bless His name, Clarke implies that the act of praising God is not only for the present but should be a component of intergenerational faith practice.

Theological Reflections

As we reflect on Psalms 145:21, several theological themes emerge:

  • The Call to Worship: This passage serves as an urgent call for worship and praise, intriguing both individuals and communities to consider their roles in glorifying God.
  • Participatory Faith: The verse embodies the idea that faith is not passive; it calls believers to involve themselves actively in the worship process.
  • The Holiness of God: In recognizing God’s holiness, worship becomes a method of bowing before the divine, acknowledging His authority and supremacy.
  • Universal Inclusivity: The notion that "all flesh" is invited reflects the overarching theme of inclusivity found throughout Scripture, reinforcing God’s desire for all people to enter into a relationship with Him.
  • Eternal Worship: The everlasting nature of this worship suggests eschatological dimensions, linking the present act of praise with the future worship in eternity.

Conclusion

Psalms 145:21 encapsulates the essence of worship and the believer's relationship with God. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively highlight the profound truth that praise is both a privilege and a responsibility that transcends time and encompasses all creation. For pastors, theologians, and believers, this call to praise invites reflection on the depth of God's character and the appropriate response to His holiness, urging a life that not only speaks of God’s greatness but also reflects it in daily living.