I will not die, but I will live and proclaim what the LORD has done. I will not die,This phrase reflects a confident declaration of faith and trust in God's deliverance. In the context of Psalm 118, which is often associated with the Passover celebration, it echoes the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. Historically, this psalm is part of the Hallel, a series of psalms (113-118) sung during Jewish festivals, emphasizing God's salvation and protection. Theologically, it can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's resurrection, where death is not the end but a transition to eternal life. This assurance of life over death is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like John 11:25-26, where Jesus declares Himself the resurrection and the life. Psa 56:13 For You have delivered my soul from death, … but I will live The affirmation of life here is not just physical survival but a deeper, spiritual vitality. In the biblical context, life is often associated with God's presence and blessing. This phrase can be connected to Deuteronomy 30:19-20, where choosing life is equated with loving and obeying God. The psalmist's confidence in living reflects a trust in God's ongoing purpose and plan. In the New Testament, this is mirrored in Philippians 1:21, where Paul speaks of living as Christ and dying as gain, emphasizing a life dedicated to God's service. Psa 27:13 Still I am certain to see the goodness of the LORD… and proclaim what the LORD has done. This phrase highlights the purpose of the psalmist's deliverance: to testify to God's mighty works. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, recounting God's deeds was a vital part of worship and community life, ensuring that future generations would remember and trust in God. This proclamation is a form of witness, similar to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where believers are called to share the gospel. The acts of God in history, such as the Exodus, are seen as types of Christ's redemptive work, culminating in His death and resurrection, which believers are called to proclaim to the world. Psa 66:16 Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare… Persons / Places / Events 1. PsalmistThe author of Psalm 118, traditionally attributed to King David, who expresses confidence in God's deliverance and protection. 2. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people. 3. Israel The nation to whom the psalmist belongs, often seen as the collective voice in the Psalms, expressing communal faith and reliance on God. 4. Enemies Though not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 118 includes adversaries from whom the psalmist seeks deliverance. 5. Temple Worship The setting for many psalms, including Psalm 118, which is often associated with public worship and thanksgiving in the temple. Teaching Points Confidence in God's DeliveranceThe psalmist's declaration, "I will not die, but I will live," reflects a deep trust in God's power to save and sustain life. Believers are encouraged to have confidence in God's ability to deliver them from physical and spiritual threats. Proclaiming God's Works The commitment to "proclaim what the LORD has done" emphasizes the importance of sharing testimonies of God's faithfulness. Christians are called to witness to others about God's interventions in their lives. Life Over Death The verse underscores the theme of life triumphing over death, a central tenet of Christian faith. This assurance can provide comfort and hope in times of fear or uncertainty. Faith in Adversity The context of Psalm 118 suggests that the psalmist faced significant challenges. Believers are reminded to maintain their faith and trust in God even when circumstances seem dire. The Power of Testimony Sharing personal experiences of God's deliverance can strengthen the faith of others and build a community of believers who support one another. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the psalmist's declaration in Psalm 118:17 inspire confidence in God's ability to deliver us from our own "enemies" or challenges?2. In what ways can we actively "proclaim what the LORD has done" in our lives, and how might this impact those around us? 3. How does the assurance of life over death in Psalm 118:17 connect with the New Testament teachings on eternal life through Christ? 4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How did this experience shape your faith and your willingness to share your testimony? 5. How can the themes of Psalm 118:17 encourage us to support and uplift others in our faith community who may be facing trials? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 23Both passages express confidence in God's protection and the assurance of life despite the presence of death. John 11:25-26 Jesus speaks of being the resurrection and the life, echoing the theme of life triumphing over death found in Psalm 118:17. 2 Corinthians 4:13-14 Paul references the spirit of faith and the assurance of resurrection, similar to the psalmist's declaration of life and proclamation of God's works. Isaiah 38:19 Hezekiah's song of thanksgiving after recovery from illness parallels the psalmist's commitment to proclaim God's deeds. Revelation 12:11 The overcoming of believers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony connects to the psalmist's proclamation of God's works.
People Aaron, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Death, Declare, Deeds, Die, Jah, Proclaim, Recount, Story, Works, Yah'sDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 118:15-21Library June the Thirtieth God My Strength and Song"The Lord is my strength and my song." --PSALM cxviii. 14-21. Yes, first of all "my strength" and then "my song"! For what song can there be where there is languor and fainting? What brave music can be born in an organ which is short of breath? There must first be strength if we would have fine harmonies. And so the good Lord comes to the songless, and with holy power He brings the gift of "saving health." "And my song"! For when life is healthy it instinctively breaks into song. The happy, contented … John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year Gratitude for Deliverance from the Grave Bound to the Altar The Entry into Jerusalem. On the Soul and the Resurrection. Sabbath Morning Hymn. The Monk Nilus. Letter X (In the Same Year) the Same, when Bishop The Evolution of Early Congregationalism the Stone which the Builders Rejected is Become the Head of the Corner. --Psalm cxviii Epistle vii. To Anastasius, Patriarch of Antioch . The Effects of this Fourth State of Prayer. Earnest Exhortations to those who have Attained to it not to Go Back, nor to Cease from Prayer, Letter xx. To Pope Damasus. Of the Conformity of Our Will to that Will of God's which is Signified to us by his Commandments. 'My Strength and Song' A New Kind of King The Lively Stones. Rev. W. Morley Punshon. To Pastors and Teachers Lydia, the First European Convert The Great Privilege of those that are Born of God The First Day in Passion-Week - Palm-Sunday - the Royal Entry into Jerusalem The Fourth Commandment In the Last, the Great Day of the Feast' Letter Xlvi (Circa A. D. 1125) to Guigues, the Prior, and to the Other Monks of the Grand Chartreuse A vision of Judgement and Cleansing Links Psalm 118:17 NIVPsalm 118:17 NLT Psalm 118:17 ESV Psalm 118:17 NASB Psalm 118:17 KJV Psalm 118:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |