Psalm 100/Overview/Introduction

Author

Unspecified

Book

Book 4 of the Psalter (Chapters 90–106)

Psalm 100 in a Nutshell

Psalm 100 opens with the words “A Psalm for a thank offering”... that is, for a thanksgiving ceremony culminating in a thank offering. Thanksgiving was a regular part of Israelite life, because Israel often had reason to give thanks. When their eyes were fully open to the goodness of their God, the one who shepherded them so tenderly, they were one joyful flock.

“His Joyful Flock” This title is a memorable phrase that helps remember the unique character and content of this psalm.

Psalm 100 belongs to the preparation for thanksgiving ceremonies, reminding Israel where it all starts: with their relationship with their Lord, remembering that he alone is God and they are his people, the joyful flock of his pasture. A way we might then capture the heart of this psalm is with the phrase, “His Joyful Flock”.

Purpose The Purpose was the psalmist's probable intent or reason for writing this psalm.

To lead people in a thanksgiving celebration of YHWH.

Content The Content is a concise summary of the whole psalm's content.

We belong to YHWH and YHWH is good, so serve YHWH with joy!

Message The Message is the main idea the psalmist probably wanted the audience to remember upon or after hearing the psalm.

Being YHWH's flock is reason to celebrate!