2. come ... presence--literally, "approach," or, meet Him ([Psa 17:13]).
3. above ... gods--esteemed such by men, though really nothing ([Jr 5:7]; [10:10-15]).
4-5. The terms used describe the world in its whole extent, subject to God.
6. come--or, "enter," with solemn forms, as well as hearts.
7. This relation illustrates our entire dependence (compare [Psa 23:3]; ). The last clause is united by Paul ([He 3:7]) to the following (compare [Psa 81:8]),
8-11. warning against neglect; and this is sustained by citing the melancholy fate of their rebellious ancestors, whose provoking insolence is described by quoting the language of God's complaint ([Nu 14:11]) of their conduct at Meribah and Massah, names given ([Ex 17:7]) to commemorate their strife and contention with Him ([Psa 78:18], ).
Psalm 96
Psa 96:1-13. The substance of this Psalm, and portions of the ninety-seventh, ninety-eighth, and hundredth, are found in 1Ch 16:7-36, which was used by David's directions in the dedication of the tabernacle on Mount Zion. The dispensation of the Messiah was typified by that event, involving, as it did, a more permanent seat of worship, and the introduction of additional and more spiritual services. Hence the language of these Psalms may be regarded as having a higher import than that pertinent to the occasion on which it was thus publicly used
1-3. All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise.
new song--literally, "fresh," or new mercies ([Psa 33:3]; ).
4-5. For He is not a local God, but of universal agency, while idols are nothing.
6. Honour and majesty--are His attendants, declared in His mighty works, while power and grace are specially seen in His spiritual relations to His people.
7-9. Give--or, "ascribe" ([Psa 29:1]) due honor to Him, by acts of appointed and solemn worship in His house.
10. Let all know that the government of the world is ordered in justice, and they shall enjoy firm and lasting peace (compare [Psa 72:3], ; [Is 9:6], ).
11-13. For which reason the universe is invoked to unite in joy, and even inanimate nature ([Ro 8:14-22]) is poetically represented as capable of joining in the anthem of praise.
Psalm 97
Psa 97:1-12. The writer celebrates the Lord's dominion over nations and nature, describes its effect on foes and friends, and exhorts and encourages the latter
1-2. This dominion is a cause of joy, because, even though our minds are oppressed with terror before the throne of the King of kings ([Ex 19:16]; [De 5:22]), we know it is based on righteous principles and judgments which are according to truth.
3-5. The attending illustrations of God's awful justice on enemies ([Psa 83:14]) are seen in the disclosures of His almighty power on the elements of nature (compare [Psa 46:2]; ; [Ha 3:6], &c.).
6. heavens--or, their inhabitants ([Psa 50:6]), as opposed to "nations" in the latter clause (compare [Is 40:5]; ).
7. Idolaters are utterly put to shame, for if angels must worship Him, how much more those who worshipped them.
all ye gods--literally, "all ye angels" ([Psa 8:5]; ; [He 1:6]; 2:7). Paul quotes, not as a prophecy, but as language used in regard to the Lord Jehovah, who in the Old Testament theophania is the second person of the Godhead.
8-9. The exaltation of Zion's king is joy to the righteous and sorrow to the wicked.
daughters of Judah--(Compare [Psa 48:11]).
10-12. Let gratitude for the blessings of providence and grace incite saints ([Psa 4:3]) to holy living. Spiritual blessings are in store, represented by light ([Psa 27:1]) and gladness.
Psalm 98
Psa 98:1-9. In view of the wonders of grace and righteousness displayed in God's salvation, the whole creation is invited to unite in praise
1. gotten ... victory--literally, "made salvation," enabled Him to save His people.
right hand, and ... arm--denote power.
holy arm--or, "arm of holiness," the power of His united moral perfections ([Psa 22:3]; ).
2. salvation--the result of His righteousness ([Psa 7:17]; ), and both are publicly displayed.
3. The union of mercy and truth ([Psa 57:3]; ) secure the blessings of the promise ([Ge 12:3]; ) to all the world ([Is 52:10]).
4-6. make a loud noise--or, "burst forth" ([Is 14:7]; ).
before ... King--hail Him as your sovereign; and while, with every aid to demonstrate zeal and joy, intelligent creatures are invited to praise, as in [Psa 96:11-13], inanimate nature is also summoned to honor Him who triumphs and rules in righteousness and equity.
Psalm 99
Psa 99:1-9. God's government is especially exercised in and for His Church, which should praise Him for His gracious dealings
1. sitteth ... cherubim--(compare [1Sa 4:4]; [Psa 80:1]).
tremble ... be moved--inspired with fear by His judgments on the wicked.
2. great in Zion--where He dwells ([Psa 9:11]).
3. thy ... name--perfections of justice, power, &c.
great and terrible name--producing dread ([De 10:17]), and to be praised by those over whom He is exalted ([Psa 97:9]).
it is holy--or, "He is holy" ([Psa 99:5], ; [Is 6:3]).
4-5. To His wise and righteous government all nations should render honor.
king's ... judgment--His power is combined with justice.
he is holy--(compare [Psa 22:3]).