The final “Egyptian Hallel” psalm (Ps 113-118). A hymn of thanksgiving for deliverance.
v.1 A call to give thanks to the Lord.
1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures forever!
v.2-4 All Israel and all who fear the Lord are called to say “his love endures forever.”
v.5-18 A description of God’s deliverance in wartime.
v.6 cited in Heb 13:6.
v.19-24 The righteous will enter through the gates.
v.22 cited in Mt 21:42, Mk 12:10-11, Lk 20:17, Acts 4:11, 1 Pt 2:7.
v.25 A prayer for deliverance and success.
v.26-27 The one who comes in the name of the Lord is praised.
v.26 cited in Mt 21:9, 23:39, Mk 11:9, Lk 13:35, 19:38, Jn 12:13
v.28 Vow to praise God.
v.29 A call to give thanks to the Lord. (Repeat of v.1)
This psalm may have been the hymn sung at the conclusion of the Last Supper (Mt 26:30). The psalm is Messianic with fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Every believer should give thanks to the Lord in all things and especially for the cross.