O Worship the King
A Sermon based on
the Hymn by Robert Grant
Introduction:
“O Worship the King” is a majestic hymn that magnifies the glory, power,
and compassion of our sovereign God. Inspired by Psalm 104, it invites
us to lift our hearts in reverent awe and joyful praise. The song
beautifully expresses both the grandeur of God’s creation and His tender
care for His people.
Stanza 1: “O
worship the King, all glorious above…”
The opening stanza calls us to worship the King of kings. Psalm 95:3
proclaims, “The Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.”
He is clothed in splendor and majesty, a sovereign whose power and
holiness demand reverent praise. His glory outshines all earthly rulers
and dominions.
Stanza 2: “The
Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days…”
This stanza reveals God's protective role. He is not only mighty but
also merciful. As our Shield and Defender (Psalm 3:3), God shelters His
people from harm. “Ancient of Days” (Daniel 7:9) speaks of His eternal
existence—He reigns from before time and shall reign forever. His power
is gentle, and His truth stands firm.
Stanza 3: “O
tell of His might, O sing of His grace…”
We are urged to proclaim both God's might and His grace. Psalm 89:1
says, “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever.” From the
vastness of the skies to the beauty of the hills, all creation declares
His majesty (Psalm 19:1). His care for His creation proves His mercy and
faithfulness.
Stanza 4: “The
earth with its store of wonders untold…”
This stanza reminds us that the earth itself is filled with evidence of
God’s power and wisdom. He designed the world and sustains it by His
will. Acts 17:25 says He “gives to all life, breath, and all things.”
Every mountain, breeze, and blade of grass testifies to the Creator’s
brilliance.
Stanza 5: “Thy
bountiful care, what tongue can recite?”
God’s providence is too vast to fully describe. Matthew 6:26 tells us
that He feeds the birds and clothes the lilies—how much more does He
care for us? His mercy extends to all, from the highest angel to the
humblest child. We respond with gratitude, awe, and trust.
O Worship the
King Sermon Outline:
Stanza 1 – The
Glory of the King
-
Psalm 95:3 – The
Lord is a great King
-
Psalm 104:1–2 –
Clothed with honor and majesty
-
Revelation 4:11
– Worthy are You, our Lord and God
Stanza 2 – The
Eternal Defender
-
Psalm 3:3 – You
are a shield around me
-
Daniel 7:9 – The
Ancient of Days took His seat
-
Proverbs 30:5 –
He is a shield to those who trust in Him
Stanza 3 –
Proclaiming Might and Grace
-
Psalm 89:1 – I
will sing of the Lord’s mercies
-
Psalm 19:1 – The
heavens declare the glory of God
-
Titus 2:11 – The
grace of God has appeared to all men
Stanza 4 – The
Wonders of Creation
-
Acts 17:24–25 –
He gives life and breath to all
-
Job 38:4–7 –
Where were you when I laid the foundation?
-
Romans 1:20 –
His attributes are clearly seen in creation
Stanza 5 – The
Depth of His Care
-
Matthew 6:26–30
– God cares for birds and lilies
-
Lamentations
3:22–23 – His compassions fail not
-
Psalm 36:5–6 –
Your mercy reaches to the heavens
Call to Action:
Do you worship the King—not only in song, but in life? True worship
begins with reverence and leads to obedience. If you have not submitted
to the King, obey His gospel today: believe in Christ (John 8:24),
repent (Luke 13:3), confess His name (Romans 10:9–10), and be baptized
for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38). Let your life echo the
hymn: “O worship the King, all glorious above!”
Scripture
Reference List:
Psalm 95:3 – The Lord is a great King
Psalm 104:1–2 – Majesty and splendor
Revelation 4:11 – Worthy is the Lord
Psalm 3:3 – God is our shield
Daniel 7:9 – Ancient of Days
Proverbs 30:5 – He is a shield to the faithful
Psalm 89:1 – Singing of God’s mercies
Psalm 19:1 – Heavens declare His glory
Titus 2:11 – God’s grace to all men
Acts 17:24–25 – God gives life to all
Job 38:4–7 – God laid the foundations of the earth
Romans 1:20 – Creation testifies to God
Matthew 6:26–30 – God’s providence
Lamentations 3:22–23 – His mercies are new every morning
Psalm 36:5–6 – Mercy and righteousness reach to the heavens
John 8:24 – Believe in Jesus
Luke 13:3 – Repent
Romans 10:9–10 – Confess Christ
Acts 2:38 – Be baptized for the forgiveness of sins
Song Author
Credit:
Robert Grant (1779–1838) was a British Christian and member of
Parliament who penned “O Worship the King” as a poetic paraphrase of
Psalm 104. The hymn blends reverent theology with vivid imagery,
reminding worshipers of God’s power, providence, and praise-worthiness.
Song History:
“O Worship the King” was first published in 1833 and has become one of
the most enduring hymns of praise. Set to the tune “Lyons,” it is widely
used across Christian denominations. Its rich language and biblical
foundation make it a beloved anthem of reverence and awe in worship
assemblies worldwide.
Prepared by
David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO
Full
Library of Songbook Hymn Sermons
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