This psalm establishes the Lord’s universal kingship (see Psalm 93) and prepares for the coming of the Lord to bring justice and righteousness to the world. The psalmist invites everyone to worship the Lord (Psalm 96:1–3), the glorious Creator of the earth (96:4–6), because only he deserves worship (96:7–9). The universe joins in praise as the righteous Judge establishes a new order (Psalm 96:10–13).
This psalm (along with Psalm 105:1–15; 106:1, 47–48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chronicles 16:1–43.