Psalm 96 is a powerful call to worship. It commands all people to sing, declare, and proclaim God’s greatness. This psalm emphasizes God’s sovereignty, glory, and righteous judgment. It reminds believers that worship is not just personal but global. The nations must hear of His greatness. The psalm also points to the future when God will judge the world in righteousness.
These sample sermon outlines will help you preach on Psalm 96 with clarity and conviction. They highlight key themes like worship, evangelism, and God’s majesty. Use them to inspire believers to praise God and proclaim His name to all people.
Sample Outlines for a Sermon on Psalm 96
#1. Sing to the Lord a New Song (Psalm 96:1)
Theme
Worship should be fresh, heartfelt, and directed toward God alone. Singing a new song represents renewed devotion and an awareness of His ongoing work.
Introduction
Music has always played a key role in worship. It is more than melody and words—it is an expression of faith. Psalm 96:1 calls us to sing a new song to the Lord. This means more than just singing unfamiliar lyrics. It is a call to worship God with fresh passion, new testimonies, and a renewed heart. Worship should never become routine. It should always reflect our growing relationship with God.
Main Text
Psalm 96:1
Key Doctrines
1. Worship is an offering to God
- Worship is not for entertainment; it is an act of surrender. When we sing to the Lord, we acknowledge His worth and majesty. True worship is about giving, not just receiving. It is about lifting God’s name above everything else in our lives.
- Singing a new song symbolizes spiritual renewal. God’s mercies are new every morning, and our worship should reflect this. If our praise becomes lifeless, we must examine our hearts. Are we singing from routine, or are we truly giving God our best?
2. Worship requires sincerity and truth
- Jesus taught that true worshipers worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). This means our worship must be both passionate and based on the truth of God’s Word. Songs that contradict Scripture or focus only on human emotions miss the mark.
- Worship is an expression of what we believe. If we truly understand God’s greatness, our songs will reflect it. A weak view of God leads to weak worship. The more we know Him, the more we will worship Him in awe and reverence.
3. Worship is a witness to the world
- When we sing to the Lord, we proclaim His greatness to those around us. Psalm 40:3 says, “Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.” Our worship can inspire others to seek God.
- A joyful, authentic worshiping church is a powerful testimony. When unbelievers see believers praising God with sincerity, they witness the joy and hope that comes from knowing Him. Worship is not just personal—it is evangelistic.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I approach worship with a fresh heart, or has it become routine?
- What does my worship reveal about my view of God?
- How can I ensure my worship is both passionate and rooted in truth?
- In what ways does my worship serve as a testimony to others?
- What new song (testimony, praise, or devotion) can I offer to the Lord this week?
Call to Commitment
Worship is a gift we give to God. It is not just about singing but about the posture of our hearts. If our worship has grown stale, we must ask God to renew our passion for Him. We must approach Him with fresh devotion, remembering that He is always doing something new in our lives.
Let us commit to worshiping with sincerity and truth. Let us sing to the Lord with hearts full of gratitude and faith. If we truly love God, our worship will reflect that love. May we never take the privilege of worship lightly, but instead, sing to Him with all that we are.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for calling us to worship You in spirit and in truth. You are worthy of all honor, praise, and devotion. Forgive us when our worship becomes routine or half-hearted. Renew our passion so that we may glorify You with all that we are. Help us to sing a new song, reflecting the fresh mercies You give us each day.
Give us hearts that seek after You. Let our worship be a testimony to others, drawing them closer to You. May our songs declare Your greatness to the world. Fill us with joy as we lift Your name. Thank You for the privilege of worshiping You.
Amen.
#2. Declare His Glory Among the Nations (Psalm 96:3)
Theme
God’s greatness is not meant to be hidden. Believers are called to proclaim His glory to all people, testifying to His power, love, and salvation.
Introduction
Faith is not meant to be private. Psalm 96:3 commands us to declare God’s glory among the nations. This is a call to evangelism. We cannot keep the greatness of God to ourselves. If we truly know Him, we must tell others. Whether through words, actions, or our way of life, we are called to reflect His glory to the world.
Main Text
Psalm 96:3
Key Doctrines
1. God’s glory is revealed through His works
- The Bible is filled with testimonies of God’s mighty works. Creation itself declares His glory (Psalm 19:1). Every miracle, every answered prayer, and every act of grace speaks of His greatness. As believers, we must recognize and share these works with others.
- Declaring God’s glory means pointing people to what He has done. This includes His work in history, in Scripture, and in our personal lives. When we testify of His goodness, we fulfill our calling to spread His name among the nations.
2. Evangelism is a command, not an option
- Jesus told His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This is not a suggestion—it is a command. We are called to share the gospel, not just with those who are like us but with all people.
- Many believers hesitate to share their faith, but declaring God’s glory is an act of obedience. It is not about having the right words but about having the right heart. If we truly love God, we will want others to know Him too.
3. Our testimony has power
- Personal testimony is one of the most effective ways to declare God’s glory. People may argue with theology, but they cannot deny a transformed life. When we share how God has worked in us, we offer undeniable evidence of His power.
- A life that reflects God’s character speaks louder than words. When we live with integrity, love, and faith, we demonstrate God’s glory. Our actions should match our words, making our testimony credible and powerful.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How often do I share God’s greatness with others?
- What stops me from declaring His glory boldly?
- In what ways can I use my personal testimony to point others to Christ?
- Do my actions reflect God’s glory as much as my words do?
- How can I take one step this week to share God’s greatness with someone new?
Call to Commitment
God has called us to declare His glory among the nations. This is not just for pastors or missionaries—it is for every believer. If we have experienced God’s goodness, we must share it. The world is in desperate need of hope. We have the answer. Let us not stay silent.
Will you commit to sharing God’s greatness? Start with those around you. Speak of what He has done. Live in a way that glorifies Him. Ask God for boldness to be a witness. As we declare His glory, others will see and come to know Him.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for revealing Your glory through Your mighty works. You are great, and Your name is worthy to be praised. Forgive us for keeping Your goodness to ourselves. Give us boldness to declare Your glory among the nations. Let our lives and words point others to You.
Help us to overcome fear and hesitation. Fill us with passion for the lost. May our testimonies be a light in the darkness. Open doors for us to share Your truth. Use us to bring others into Your kingdom. Thank You for the privilege of making Your name known.
Amen.
#3. The Lord is Great and Greatly to Be Praised (Psalm 96:4)
Theme
God is infinitely great, and His greatness demands our highest praise. Worship is the proper response to who He is.
Introduction
Many things in life demand our attention. People praise celebrities, achievements, and material success. But Psalm 96:4 reminds us that only God is truly great and worthy of praise. No one else compares to Him. Our worship must reflect His greatness. It should not be casual or half-hearted. When we see God for who He is, our only response should be wholehearted praise.
Main Text
Psalm 96:4
Key Doctrines
1. God’s greatness is beyond human understanding
- The Bible declares that God’s ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). His power, wisdom, and love are beyond measure. No human mind can fully grasp the depth of His greatness.
- Because God is so great, He alone is worthy of worship. People may achieve greatness in the world’s eyes, but no one compares to God. Praising Him reminds us of His supremacy over all things.
2. True worship is based on who God is, not how we feel
- Worship is not about emotions—it is about truth. Whether we feel joyful or weary, God’s greatness does not change. He is always worthy of praise, no matter our circumstances.
- Many treat worship as optional, but Scripture commands it. Praise is a discipline, not just a feeling. When we choose to worship, even in hard times, we acknowledge God’s greatness above our struggles.
3. Praise is a spiritual weapon
- In Scripture, praise often precedes victory. When Jehoshaphat faced a powerful enemy, he sent worshipers ahead of his army. As they praised, God defeated their enemies (2 Chronicles 20:21-22).
- Praising God shifts our focus from problems to His power. It strengthens our faith and reminds us that God is in control. When we worship, we invite His presence into our battles.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Does my worship reflect God’s greatness, or has it become routine?
- How can I develop a heart of praise, even in difficult times?
- Do I allow distractions to take my focus away from worshiping God?
- How does my understanding of God’s greatness affect the way I live?
- What practical steps can I take to prioritize worship in my daily life?
Call to Commitment
God is great and greatly to be praised. Our worship should reflect His worth. If we truly know Him, we cannot remain silent. We must declare His greatness in every aspect of our lives. Praise should not be reserved for Sundays—it should be a daily habit.
Let us commit to worshiping God with passion and sincerity. Let us lift His name high, knowing that He alone is worthy. As we praise Him, our faith will grow, and His presence will fill our lives. May our worship be a reflection of His greatness.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
You are great and greatly to be praised. No one compares to You. Forgive us when we take Your greatness for granted. Help us to worship You with sincerity and passion. May our praise reflect Your infinite worth.
Teach us to praise You in every season. Let worship be our first response, not our last resort. Fill our hearts with awe at Your majesty. Use our worship to strengthen our faith and glorify Your name. Thank You for being the only One worthy of all honor.
Amen.
#4. Worship the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness (Psalm 96:9)
Theme
True worship is not just about words or music—it is about a life of holiness. God desires worship that comes from a pure heart devoted to Him.
Introduction
Many think of worship as singing songs in church. But Psalm 96:9 calls us to worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Worship is not just about what we say or do; it is about who we are. God desires worship that is rooted in a holy life. When we live in obedience to Him, our worship becomes a true offering that honors His name.
Main Text
Psalm 96:9
Key Doctrines
1. Holiness is the foundation of true worship
- Worship is not just about singing; it is about the condition of our hearts. Jesus said that true worshipers worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). Without holiness, worship becomes empty words.
- A holy life reflects a heart that truly honors God. If we live in sin while offering praise, our worship is not genuine. God calls us to live set apart, so our worship is pleasing to Him.
2. Worship is a response to God’s holiness
- God is holy, and our worship should reflect that reality. In Isaiah 6:3, the angels declare, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts.” Worship acknowledges who God is—perfect, righteous, and pure.
- When we recognize God’s holiness, it humbles us. We realize our need for His grace. Worship is not about our worthiness but about His greatness. A true understanding of God’s holiness leads to sincere worship.
3. A lifestyle of worship requires daily surrender
- Worship is not limited to a church service—it is a way of life. Romans 12:1 urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. Worship happens when we surrender every part of our lives to Him.
- Daily holiness means making choices that honor God. Whether in our thoughts, words, or actions, we are called to live in a way that reflects His glory. True worship is not just what we do on Sunday but how we live every day.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Does my worship come from a heart of holiness?
- How does my lifestyle reflect my love for God?
- Am I worshiping God only with words, or with my whole life?
- What areas of my life need to be surrendered to God for true worship?
- How can I develop a heart that honors God in both worship and daily living?
Call to Commitment
God calls us to worship Him in the beauty of holiness. This means that our worship must go beyond words. It must be reflected in how we live. A life of holiness is the greatest act of worship we can offer.
Let us commit to worshiping God with pure hearts. Let us surrender every area of our lives to Him. When we worship in holiness, our lives become a testimony of His greatness. May our worship be more than a song—it should be a lifestyle.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
You are holy, and You call us to worship You in holiness. Forgive us for the times we have worshiped You with our lips while our hearts were far from You. Teach us to worship You with lives that honor Your name. Help us to walk in purity and obedience.
Give us strength to resist sin and pursue righteousness. Let our daily lives be an offering of worship. May our love for You be reflected in our choices. Draw us closer to You and transform us by Your presence. Thank You for calling us into a life of true worship.
Amen.
#5. The Lord Reigns: Let the Earth Rejoice (Psalm 96:10)
Theme
God reigns over all creation. His rule is unshakable, and His sovereignty brings joy to His people.
Introduction
In a world full of uncertainty, it is easy to feel anxious. But Psalm 96:10 reminds us that God reigns, and because He reigns, the earth should rejoice. No matter what happens, His authority is never shaken. He is in control of history, nations, and individual lives. When we understand that God is sovereign, we find peace and joy in Him.
Main Text
Psalm 96:10
Key Doctrines
1. God’s sovereignty gives us security
- The world is filled with chaos, but God is never surprised. He rules over all things, and nothing happens outside of His control (Daniel 4:35). His sovereignty means that we can trust Him even in difficult times.
- Many struggle with fear about the future, but knowing God reigns gives us confidence. If He is in control, we have nothing to fear. Our faith rests in the One who holds all things in His hands.
2. God’s reign demands our submission
- If God is truly King, then we must live in submission to His will. Many people want God’s blessings without surrendering to His authority. But true faith means recognizing Him as Lord, not just Savior.
- Submission to God means trusting His plans above our own. We may not always understand what He is doing, but we can be sure that His rule is perfect. Obedience brings blessing, and joy follows surrender.
3. Joy comes from trusting in God’s rule
- The world seeks happiness in temporary things, but true joy comes from knowing God reigns. When we recognize His sovereignty, we find peace beyond circumstances (Philippians 4:7).
- Rejoicing in the Lord is an act of faith. Even when life is difficult, we can trust that God is working all things for good (Romans 8:28). Worshiping Him as King fills our hearts with lasting joy.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I truly believe that God is in control of my life?
- How does knowing that God reigns affect the way I handle challenges?
- Am I submitting to God’s rule, or am I holding onto my own plans?
- Where do I find my joy—in temporary things or in God’s sovereignty?
- How can I live in a way that reflects my trust in God’s reign?
Call to Commitment
God reigns, and because He reigns, we can rejoice. His sovereignty is our peace, our strength, and our hope. When we trust in His rule, we find joy that cannot be shaken.
Let us commit to living in the confidence of God’s reign. Let us surrender our worries, plans, and fears to Him. When we acknowledge His authority in every area of our lives, we experience the joy that comes from trusting in Him. May we live as people who rejoice in the Lord always.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
You reign over all things. Your rule is unshakable, and Your power is unmatched. Forgive us for the times we have doubted Your control. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and find joy in Your presence. Let our hearts be filled with peace, knowing that You are always in control.
Teach us to submit to Your will daily. Strengthen our faith so that we do not fear the future. Fill us with joy that comes from trusting in You. May our lives reflect the confidence that You are King over all. Thank You for ruling with justice, wisdom, and love.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Psalm 96 reminds us of the greatness of God. He is holy, and He reigns over all creation. True worship comes from a heart that is set apart for Him. When we recognize His authority, we find peace and joy in His rule.
As we reflect on these truths, let us commit to living lives of worship and surrender. May we honor God with our actions, trust in His sovereignty, and rejoice in His presence. Worship is not just about what we say—it is about how we live. Let our lives declare that the Lord reigns.