Copyright StatementThese files are a derivative of an electronic edition prepared from text scanned by Woodside Bible Fellowship.
This expanded edition of the Jameison-Faussett-Brown Commentary is in the public domain and may be freely used and distributed.
Bibliographical InformationJamieson, Robert, D.D.; Fausset, A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on Psalms 97". "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible". https://www.studylight.org/
commentaries/eng/jfb/psalms-97.html. 1871-8.
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.