Untitled Sermon

Praising the Unmatched Sovereignty of Our God

Bible Passage: Ps 113:1–9

Summary: This passage invites us to recognize and celebrate the sovereign power and unmatched greatness of God, who exalts the humble and cares for the needy.

Application: As we approach the end of the year, this message encourages believers to reflect on God's faithfulness in their lives and to foster a heart of gratitude and praise, even in the face of challenges. It serves as a reminder that God’s sovereignty covers all aspects of our lives, instilling hope and encouragement.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that God is not only transcendent and mighty but also immanent and compassionate. It emphasizes the call to worship and praise Him for His marvelous works and for His care towards the lowly and oppressed.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader biblical context, this passage highlights the character of God that is most fully revealed in Jesus Christ, who, from His humble birth to His sacrificial death, exemplifies God’s care for the marginalized and His power over all creation.

Big Idea: The essence of our worship stems from recognizing God’s unmatched greatness and compassionate sovereignty, prompting us to respond with heartfelt praise and gratitude, particularly as we reflect on His work throughout the year.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider utilizing your Logos library to delve into the historical context of Psalm 113. Explore themes of social justice present in the text and the Hebrew poetic features that amplify its message. Furthermore, examining how this psalm is echoed in the New Testament could provide deeper insights into the application of its themes in the life of Christ.

1. Persistent Praise Every Day

Ps 113:1-3

Perhaps you could begin by emphasizing the universality and unceasing nature of praise that Psalm 113:1-3 calls for. This section suggests that from the rising to the setting of the sun, God is worthy of continuous worship. This ties into Christ's global reign and constant intercession for us, reinforcing our daily worship practice. In application, encourage congregants to start and end each day reflecting on God's attributes and works, fostering an attitude of continuous praise regardless of circumstances.

2. Sovereign Yet Humble

Ps 113:4-6

In this passage, perhaps focus on the transcendence and unmatched superiority of God, who humbles Himself to behold the things of heaven and earth. Here lies a reflection of Christ's humility and incarnation, where the High King came down to dwell among us. As we approach a new year, this sublime truth encourages believers to remain humble and trust in God’s exalted yet personal involvement in their lives.

3. Exalted from the Lowliest

Ps 113:7-9

This section could highlight God lifting the needy and raising the poor from the dust, analogous to Christ lifting sinners up from their lowliest state. Here is a call to trust in God’s provision and transformation in our lives, no matter how dire. As we close the year, it's a reminder to worship in gratitude for God’s faithfulness in elevating us and meeting our needs, using Jesus' humble life and victory over sin as central examples.