Bible Commentaries
Psalms 97

Introduction

PSALM 97

:-. The writer celebrates the Lord's dominion over nations and nature, describes its effect on foes and friends, and exhorts and encourages the latter.

Verse 1

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 (Exodus 19:16; Deuteronomy 5:22), we know it is based on righteous principles and judgments which are according to truth.

Verse 3

3-5. The attending illustrations of God's awful justice on enemies ( :-) are seen in the disclosures of His almighty power on the elements of nature (compare Psalms 46:2; Psalms 77:17; Habakkuk 3:6, &c.).

Verse 6

6. heavens—or, their inhabitants (Psalms 50:6), as opposed to "nations" in the latter clause (compare Isaiah 40:5; Isaiah 66:18).

Verse 7

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" (Psalms 8:5; Psalms 138:1; Hebrews 1:6; Hebrews 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.

Verse 8

8, 9. The exaltation of Zion's king is joy to the righteous and sorrow to the wicked.

daughters of Judah—(Compare Psalms 48:11).

Verse 9

9. above all gods— ( :-).

Verse 10

10-12. Let gratitude for the blessings of providence and grace incite saints ( :-) to holy living. Spiritual blessings are in store, represented by light (Psalms 27:1) and gladness.

Verse 11

11. sown—to spring forth abundantly for such, who alone can and well may rejoice in the holy government of their sovereign Lord (compare Psalms 30:4; Psalms 32:11).

Verse 12

10-12. Let gratitude for the blessings of providence and grace incite saints ( :-) to holy living. Spiritual blessings are in store, represented by light (Psalms 27:1) and gladness.