Psalms 111:2 KJV

The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.

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Psalms 111:2 Bible Commentary

Psalms 111:2 - Commentary Summary

Bible Verse: "The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein." (Psalms 111:2)

Introduction

The verse under consideration is a profound declaration about the greatness of God's works and the joy that comes from seeking and understanding them. Psalms 111 serves as an acclamation of God’s deeds, portraying God as not only the creator but also as a moral guide. The commentators chosen for this summary—Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke—each provide valuable insights into this verse that can enrich the understanding of pastors, students, theologians, and scholars.

Exegesis of Psalms 111:2

This verse emphasizes two primary elements: the 'greatness' of the works of the LORD and the disposition of those who seek them. Each of the commentators provides reflections that reveal deeper meanings.

1. The Greatness of God's Works

Matthew Henry describes the "great works" of the LORD as abundant and awe-inspiring acts of creation and providence. He emphasizes that these works include everything from the creation of the world to the sustenance of life, and even God's redemptive acts in history. Henry posits that the magnificence of God's works invites contemplation, suggesting that they call for a response of worship from those who recognize their significance.

Albert Barnes expands on this notion by pointing out that God's works are not only great in their scale but also in their purpose and effect. Barnes notes that God’s works are characterized by wisdom, justice, and love, each manifesting His attributes to humanity. He further notes that their greatness is evident in their intricacy and harmony, a testament to God's careful design and oversight. The invitation to "seek" these works is thus not merely an endeavor of the mind but a spiritual journey of experiencing God’s love and faithfulness.

Adam Clarke brings an additional layer to the discussion by highlighting the historical context of this psalm. He situates the verse within Israel’s history and its covenantal relationship with God. Clarke insists that reflecting on the great works of God is synonymous with recalling His mighty acts of deliverance, particularly in the context of the Exodus and the establishment of Israel. He presents this as a call to remember and recount God’s past deeds as a means to strengthen faith and reliance on Him amidst present uncertainties.

2. Seeking God’s Works

As we delve into the second part of the verse, the focus shifts to the attitude of those who "seek out" the works of the LORD. This seeking is portrayed not as a passive observation but as an active engagement with God’s revelations.

Matthew Henry asserts that those who find pleasure in God's works are those who devote themselves to studying His Word and observing His creation. He emphasizes that true delight in God’s works translates into a life of worship and obedience. This kind of seeking is transformative, fostering deeper faith and a closer relationship with God.

Albert Barnes comments that delight in God’s works reflects a heart attuned to evidence of God’s presence and purpose. He remarks on how this disposition often leads to wisdom and understanding. Seeking God's works is thus depicted as a deliberate and joyful pursuit that rewards the seeker with knowledge and insights about God’s character and His will for humanity. Furthermore, Barnes notes that engagement with God's works fosters community as believers gather to celebrate and reflect on these divine realities.

Adam Clarke reiterates the notion that true seekers of God’s works are those who are engaged in the disciplines of faith—prayer, meditation, and community worship. He draws a connection to the importance of teaching the younger generation about God’s great deeds, highlighting that such witness is essential for communal faith continuity. In his view, seeking God’s works cultivates gratitude and reverence, prompting believers to express their joy in service and worship.

Theological Implications

Reflecting upon Psalms 111:2, we encounter several theological implications that resonate deeply within the Christian tradition:

  • The Sovereignty of God: The psalm acknowledges God as sovereign over all creation, whose works reflect His power and wisdom.
  • Human Responsibility: Responding to and seeking God’s works place a responsibility on believers to engage actively in their faith and community.
  • Transformation Through Engagement: Both the act of seeking God’s works and the acknowledgment of their greatness bring about personal and communal transformation.
  • Historical Awareness: Remembrance of God’s past acts shapes the faith narrative of future generations, urging the church to contemplate its history in light of God’s faithfulness.

Conclusion

Psalms 111:2 invites believers into a dynamic relationship with God characterized by wonder and joyful pursuit of His works. The reflections from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively underscore the greatness of God's acts and the blessedness of those who seek to understand and celebrate them. For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, this verse serves as a reminder to cultivate a heart of inquiry and gratitude, recognizing that the pursuit of divine works leads to a deeper knowledge of God and a more profound experience of His grace in our lives.