Psalms 102:22
When the people are gathered together, and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
עַמִּ֣ים
When the people
H5971
עַמִּ֣ים
When the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
2 of 7
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וּ֝מַמְלָכ֗וֹת
and the kingdoms
H4467
וּ֝מַמְלָכ֗וֹת
and the kingdoms
Strong's:
H4467
Word #:
4 of 7
dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)
לַעֲבֹ֥ד
to serve
H5647
לַעֲבֹ֥ד
to serve
Strong's:
H5647
Word #:
5 of 7
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
Historical Context
The prophets consistently envisioned a future when Gentiles would join Israel in worshiping Yahweh (Isa 2:2-3, 60:3). This began fulfillment with the return from exile but achieves full realization through Christ and the church.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the international composition of Christ's church demonstrate God's faithfulness?
- What role do you play in gathering people from all nations to worship the LORD?
Analysis & Commentary
People and kingdoms gathering to serve the LORD fulfills the prophetic vision of Gentile inclusion. This verse anticipates the Great Commission and the church's mission to disciple nations (Matt 28:19-20). The Hebrew 'serve' (abad) means both worship and work, indicating comprehensive devotion. Reformed theology sees this gathering as God's sovereign election of believers from every nation, tribe, and tongue (Rev 7:9). Christ's death purchased this diverse people for God.