What does Psalm 100:3 mean?
Here, the psalmist stresses God's sovereignty and ownership of His people. These words summon all people (Psalm 100:1) to know by experience that the LORD God is their Creator and Shepherd (Psalm 23:1).A declaration that God created us flies in the face of worldviews and religions which claim humanity was an accident, or the result of some defect in the universe. Genesis 1:27 states: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." Although Adam and Eve disconnected with God by sinning and plunged the entire human race into sin and condemnation, individuals can reconnect with God through faith in Jesus Christ. He taught that He is the way—the only way—to God (John 14:6).
By creative right, God owns humanity, but by redemption He holds a special ownership of believers. This verse uses the imagery of a shepherd: a guiding protector who cares for those being protected. King David acknowledged the Lord as his shepherd, and said, "He makes me lie down in green pastures" (Psalm 23:2). Our Shepherd provides for us daily, protects us, and gives us peace.
Psalm 100:3–5 acknowledges that God deserves our submission, thankfulness, and praise. Not only is He our Creator, He also shows unfailing love and faithfulness.
The 100th Psalm opens with an invitation to the whole earth to joyfully praise the Lord, serve Him, and worship Him in song. The Lord is described as the Creator of the people as well as their Shepherd. The psalmist summons everyone to enter the temple with thanksgiving and praise. He describes the Lord as good, having love that is steadfast forever and faithfulness that stretches from generation to generation.