Bible Commentaries
Psalms 98

Verses 1-9

Another song of worship on the pattern ofPsalms 96:1-13; Psalms 96:1-13. It opens and closes in the same way. A new song and its ultimate reason, the judging of the earth by Jehovah with righteousness and with truth. Here also the circles widen. Beginning with Israel (vv. Psa 98:1-3 ), the whole earth is included (vv. Psa 98:4-6 ); and finally all nature (vv. Psa 98:7-8 ).

As the singer rejoices over the salvation of God manifested on behalf of Israel, he emphasises the fact that it has been wrought by Jehovah alone. “His right hand, and His holy arm”; these were the only instruments available for, or capable of working deliverance. In proportion as the vision is filled with the glory of the Lord, the heart is filled with gladness, and the lips with song. This is as true today as ever. It sometimes seems as though all singing were out of place save as faith keeps its eye mysterious as ever, and the outlook as full of gloom. Yet “He hath done marvellous things,” and “He cometh to judge.” This vision of God in the past and the future creates the song of the present.