Incarnation Songs – Luke 2:9-14, 1:67-69, 2:25-32

Psalm 98 instructs the worshipper throughout the ages to “...sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things! His right hand and His holy arm have worked salvation for Him.” As we have noted, a new song in the context of Biblical worship is to recognize with proportional and appropriate praise, each new occasion to worship our majestic Lord. In our texts today, the 400 some year inter-testamental silence is interrupted by a hosts of angels from the realms of glory proclaiming the news of the long awaited Messiah's birth in Bethlehem. This occasion was a miraculous event that called for appropriate praise – if there ever was one. Voices from heaven and earth join in offering a new song unto the Lord, and unto His Christ, receiving their king and witnessing the marvel of the incarnation. Though the angel's song is recorded with just one stanza or so preserved in the written record, it is sweeping and paradigmatic in theme. The main emphases of the angel chorus resound in the songs of Zechariah and Simeon as well. GLORY – PEACE – and FAVOR of the Lord compel the worship of those who have lived to see the coming of the Savior in the flesh. Psalm 98 is framed around a multi-tense structure referencing the past, present, and future works of God. As we have noted, this poetic format illustrates the sovereignty of God over history and the activity of God in history. No greater example of God's activity in time could possibly occur. It is fitting and illuminating, therefore, that songs & expressions of praise be recorded for all time that all of those who love his appearing might be inspired and equipped to worship likewise...