Psalm 50 is a hymn an oracle, where the worshippers sing God’s instruction for how they should live holy lives.  Yes, the sacrificial system was given to the people as part of their covenant worship, yet sacrifice does not buy any favor or reward from God.  God wants faithfulness, thanksgiving, and obedience.  Of note there are seven different names of God in this Psalm.  This seems to be intentional as to say to the worshipper, no matter what your conception of God may be, God does not want you to think that your sacrifices can buy favor with him or bribe him to answer your supplications.  1-6 – God summons the Earth to assemble before him.  Three names of God are given in verse one; the Mighty One – El Gibhor, God – Elohim, and LORD – Yahweh.  El Gibhor means Mighty God, the powerful and mighty warrior, and the Messiah.  Elohim refers to God, the creator, all powerful and strong.  Notice that this word is plural, in reference to the Trinity and the name of God used in the creation account of Genesis chapter 1. Yahweh is the special covenant name that God told the Hebrews who agreed to the covenant blessings that they should call him.  Again, the psalmist uses poetic terms describing God as a devouring fire and a mighty tempest.  The fourth name of God is found in verse 6, where the word Judge – Shaphat is used.  God is the one who pronounces judgement.  These all-encompassing names of God make way for God as judge, who will judge all of the people of Earth.7-15 – God calls people to worship him from their heart.  There he will judge their worship of him.  He does not need their sacrifices.  Instead, God wants their thanksgiving, praise, and obedience, this is what worships God.  In verse 14 we see the fifth term for God, the Most High – El Elyon.  God wants sacrifices from the heart from all peoples of the Earth.  16-22 – God now rebukes the wicked who mouth their praise to God, yet by their actions show that they do not honor God with their heart.  In verse 21, we see the sixth term for God, I – Yahweh, which often stated in the English translations as I Am.  God is, he has no beginning and no end.  So, this instruction from God is not going to change, it is timeless.  Finally in verse 22, we find the seven name of God, God – El-oah, this is a term for Mighty God, made in the vocative case, directly addressing God. 23 – The final verse summaries the Psalm, the one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me, to the person who is disciplined and follows my commands, I will show that person the salvation of God.

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