United Commentaries

Ps.93.1-100.5

These psalms challenge the doubts created by the Exile (see Ps 89) and answer the questions asked in 90:11, 13. The Lord has established a kingdom (Ps 93) that is characterized by the punishment of the wicked (Ps 94), reverent obedience among his people (Ps 95), justice for the poor (Ps 96), celebration in Zion (Ps 97), salvation for Israel (Ps 98), holiness (Ps 99), and praise (Ps 100).

Ps.97.1-12

God is greatly exalted over the gods and over all the earth. Awe-inspiring phenomena accompany his coming. Even the created order is visibly affected and the wicked perish, but the people of Zion love his coming and rejoice.

Ps.97.1

The farthest coastlands represent the most remote parts of the world.

Ps.97.2-4

Dark clouds . . . Fire . . . lightning: This language shows that the Lord is coming in judgment.

Ps.97.5-7

The created order stirs at the coming of its King. He alone deserves worship.

Ps.97.6

As the Lord enters the world, the testimony of his righteousness resounds from above (50:6).

Every nation will view the open display of the Lord’s glory (see 8:1; 19:1-4a; 24:7; Isa 40:5).

Ps.97.7

At the Lord’s coming, when every god must bow to him, those who worship other gods will face their own folly (see 95:3-5).

Ps.97.8-12

Jerusalem rejoices at the news of the Lord’s coming, for he brings justice and rescues the upright of heart.

Ps.97.11

The godly people of integrity (see Prov 2:7, 21; 3:32; 11:6, 11; 14:2), whose hearts are right, maintain a relationship with the Lord and with others (Pss 94:15; 125:4). The wicked plan the downfall of the godly (11:2), but the Lord rescues them (11:1; 36:10). Then the sorrows of the godly turn to joy and praise (32:11; 64:10; 111:1; 119:7).