Psalms 104:35 Commentary

Verse: "Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD." (Psalm 104:35)

Introduction

This conclusion of Psalm 104 presents both a significant theological assertion about the fate of the wicked and a personal call to worship. It encapsulates the psalmist's desire for divine justice and the overall theme of creation's praise for God. The work of past commentators sheds insight into this verse, encouraging readers to reflect on the nature of sin, the response of creation, and the call to worship.

The Nature of Sin and the Sinners

The verse speaks unequivocally about the fate of sinners, suggesting a clear separation between righteousness and wickedness. Matthew Henry emphasizes the Psalm's longing for a world devoid of sin, highlighting that God's creation is marred by the presence of wickedness. He explains that the psalmist's heart desires purity within the created order, as sin not only affects humanity but the entire cosmos. Henry's commentary on this reflects an understanding of the moral universe governed by divine justice.

Albert Barnes asserts that the psalmist’s wish for the removal of sinners is not a vindictive desire but reflects a yearning for the establishment of God’s righteous reign. Barnes meticulously points out that the ultimate end of the wicked is in accordance with the justice of God, which prompts a real, fervent hope for their eradication as a step toward universal righteousness. He notes that such petitions echo throughout the Psalms, reflecting a consistent Biblical theme of divine justice.

Theological Insights

• Justice and Righteousness: The removal of sinners is inherently tied to the themes of justice and righteousness within the framework of the Biblical narrative. Adam Clarke elaborates on this, observing that the psalmist is invoking God's sovereignty over creation, suggesting that the moral order must be restored for creation to flourish. Clarke emphasizes that God’s desire for righteousness is inherent in the created order and that the moral implications resonate deeply with the call to holiness.
• Universality of Praise: The culmination of the verse with "Bless thou the LORD, O my soul" serves as a reminder that while the psalmist petitions for justice, he simultaneously recognizes the duty of all beings—righteous and otherwise—to ascribe praise to God. This duality is significant in Henry's view, which frames worship as the rightful response to God’s character and works.

The Conclusion of Creation's Praise

The conclusion of Psalm 104, marked by the acclamation to praise, evokes the picture of creation regularly engaging in the glorification of God. Here, Barnes connects the mention of the "wicked" to the larger narrative in which creation itself stands in stark contrast to corruption. In his reading, even as sinners exist, the natural world and its cycles—plants, animals, and the heavens—continuously declare the glory of God.

Clarke further expounds this by stating that our understanding of sin does not diminish the overarching truth that all creation is intended to praise the Creator. This is a sobering reminder for both theologians and practitioners alike of the persistent divine intention behind the creation process, and how our existence is intertwined with worship.

Implications for Worship

The duality of justice and worship places a vital responsibility upon believers; namely, to live in a way that reflects the purity that God desires within His creation. Henry notes that the emotional bond the psalmist expresses invites us to examine our responses to both the wickedness around us and the attributes of God that warrant praise. Therefore, it calls leaders in worship to facilitate environments that promote reflective worship, where congregants can engage meaningfully with themes of justice and adoration.

Conclusion

Psalm 104:35 is a profound declaration of the hope for divine justice coupled with an unwavering call to worship. Scholars and ministers alike must not overlook the urgency of the psalmist’s plea. It beckons a reflection upon the pervasive nature of sin and its ultimate resolution in the justice of God, while also calling for a unifying response in praise. As we heed the insights of esteemed commentators like Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, may our hearts resonate with the psalmist's arching desire for righteousness and a heartfelt commitment to glorifying the LORD.