Psalms 68:11

Psalms 68:11

“The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” This verse sits within the same victory song, celebrating not only God’s act but the proclamation of it. “The word” here likely refers to divine revelation and the proclamation of God’s deeds—perhaps prophetic messages, the law, or the psalmist’s own exhortation. A “great company” of messengers implies eager, widespread dissemination—evangelistic enthusiasm, public proclamation, and communal mobilization. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, royal announcements and military victors were celebrated through messengers who carried the good news to far regions. Israel’s form of victory was not merely military but theological: God’s acts demand response in worship and witness. The verse thus honors those who spread the news of God’s saving works and reminds the community that the Spirit-empowered proclamation thrives in collaboration—preachers, singers, leaders, and laypeople all playing a part.

This verse emphasizes the communal dimension of revelation. God’s deeds are not self-contained but designed to be declared and celebrated through the people. The proclamation validates the faith, invites participation, and binds the community in shared experience of God’s action. It also points to the authority and trustworthiness of God’s word—what God reveals catalyzes a response of bold proclamation. Theologically, it underscores calling and mission: believers are not merely recipients but heralds. The “great company” signals the abundance of those commissioned to testify, suggesting that the spread of God’s word is a sign of divine blessing and unity. The verse also invites humility: the power is God’s; the medium—human voices—must remain faithful, patient, and courageous.

For today, this verse champions bold preaching, teaching, and sharing of God’s works. Churches can cultivate community-wide literacy about Scripture—study groups, liturgy, and testimony gatherings where ordinary people share how God has acted in their lives. It also invites collaboration across generations and ministries: youth groups, elders, missionaries, and laypeople, all with a role in publishing good news. In practical terms, invest in training for preaching and testimony, provide platforms for personal stories, and create outreach initiatives that invite neighbors to hear and see God’s work. Recognize the power of social media, prayer meetings, and worship gatherings as venues for proclamation. The goal is not sensationalism but faithful, winsome witness that invites others into the life God gives.

Cross-References: Isaiah 52:7; Romans 10:14-15; 1 Thessalonians 2:4-8; Colossians 4:3-4; 2 Timothy 4:2