Sermon Notes

Introduction

This morning, we continue our new series as we journey through the Psalms—songs from the Old Testament—and connect them with modern musical classics. The Psalms in the Bible are not just songs; they are theological masterpieces that teach us about God, His character, His love, and give us messianic glimpses of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. 

Today’s Song Connection is “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, released in 2013.

The Situation – An invitation for all to celebrate – no one is excluded (Jews & Gentiles) – Psalm 47:1-9 

“Clap your hands for joy, all peoples! Praise God with loud songs! The Lord, the Most High, is to be feared; He is a great King, ruling over all the world.” (v. 1-2) 

Lyrics from “Happy”: 

“Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof. 

Clap along if you feel like happiness, is the truth. 

Clap along if you know what happiness is to you. 

Clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do.”

• Psalm 47 is attributed to the family of Korah, potentially to his sons: Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph (Exodus 6:24). 

• Psalm 47 begins with an open and inclusive invitation for all people of every nation, tongue, and tribe to clap, sing, and shout with victorious loudness.  

• Why? Verse 2 answers that: “He is a great King, ruling over all the world.”

• Thousands of years later, the song “Happy” again encourages people to clap and celebrate. 

Application

From ancient Israel to modern life today, clapping is universally recognized as a means of approval and appreciation. However, it’s important to consider that in certain cultures and settings, clapping may be viewed as inappropriate. 

The Complication – Are we just being emotional if we clap and shout? – Psalm 47:1-4 

“It might seem crazy what I’m about to say. 

Sunshine, she’s here; you can take a break. 

I’m a hot air balloon that could go to space. 

With the air, like I don’t care, baby, by the way.”

• Some argue against clapping and expressions of emotion, like shouting praise, during a church service. They suggest that such emotional displays can be irreverent and disrespectful to God. 

• We need to be careful when criticizing and judging another person’s praise and worship of God without understanding their backstory (see Numbers 26:11, Matthew 26:6-13). 

Application

While there is nothing inherently wrong with preferring a quieter style of worship and praise to God, it is dangerous to make our preferences a doctrinal teaching. The Bible clearly teaches the inclusion of shouts of praise and loud music as acts of worship to the King of Kings. There is room for both quiet reflection and exuberant praise and worship to God, if it comes from a place of sincerity. 

The Solution & Celebration – Psalm 47 reminds us of the victory won by Jesus Christ – Psalm 47:5-9 

“Here comes bad news, talking about this and that. 

Well, give me all you got; don’t hold it back. 

Well, I should probably warn ya, I’ll be just fine. 

No offense to you; don’t waste your time; here’s why.”

• Most scholars suggest that Psalm 47 has messianic overtones alluding to the ascension of Jesus Christ after securing victory over death and the grave. 

• The clap and the shout, therefore, are celebrations of victory—God has defeated the enemy, God is seated on the throne, and people all over the world join in with victory shouts of praise. 

Application

Psalm 47 is a command and invitation for all people (Jews & Gentiles) to join in the celebration of praise and worship to God for the battles He has won and the victory He has secured for the world. We are happy not only through temporal and fleeting things of the world but because our hearts are filled with joy due to everything God has done for us.  (See Romans 8:31-39)

Questions

1. What truths in this psalm encourage your heart? Which truths challenge you?

2. What was the last thing that made you happy or excited? How did you express your joy?

3. In relation to Psalm 41:1, compare it with Psalm 98:8 and Isaiah 55:12. What are the similarities and differences?

4. During the sermon, it was mentioned that we should avoid tailoring our praise and worship styles based on personal preference and instead base them on biblical teaching. What challenges does this present? How can the church, which includes people with diverse personal and cultural preferences and worship styles, work together in harmony?

5. The psalmist emphasizes that claps and shouts of joy should be directed toward God and God alone. How can we ensure that our praise and worship remain God-centred and not man-focused?

6. How could you use this psalm to encourage a Christian friend who is:

   a) suffering?

   b) rejoicing in things other than God and the victory we have in Him?