Commentary on Psalms 68:16

Bible Verse: Psalms 68:16 - "Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the Lord will dwell in it for ever."

Overview

This verse serves as a profound declaration of God's choice of Zion as His dwelling place, contrasting the pride of the high hills with God's chosen site. It speaks to the significance of divine election and the permanence of God’s presence among His people.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the sentiment that the hills, which symbolize human pride and arrogance, seem to be questioning why they are not chosen by God as His dwelling place. He notes, "High hills and mountains represent earthly powers, which often contend with each other for glory and dominion." Henry explains that while these earthly heights may boast, they cannot compare to God's elect place where He chooses to show His glory.

Moreover, Henry points out the eternal nature of God's chosen dwelling. He teaches that God's selection of Zion represents not just a physical location but a spiritual reality where God tabernacles with His people. His presence is paramount, emphasizing that while the hills may challenge, they cannot replicate the divine election that God has towards Zion.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes expands on the metaphorical language of hills and Zion, stating that "the high hills" may reflect the strength and majesty of earthly kingdoms and governments that strive for dominion over one another. He suggests that God's choice of Zion signifies His preference for humility over earthly grandeur. Barnes asserts, "It is not the proud and lofty which God delights in; rather, it is the lowly and the meek." This theological underpinning showcases the nature of God's kingdom, which stands in stark contrast to worldly frameworks.

Moreover, Barnes highlights the permanence of God’s presence in Zion. He quotes the phrase "the Lord will dwell in it for ever," reinforcing the idea that God's relationship with His people is everlasting. This eternal promise is critical for encouraging believers, as it assures them of God's unchanging commitment amidst the transient nature of the world.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides an interesting insight into the geographical and historical contexts, noting that "the hills of Bashan" represent a symbol of strength and pride among the nations. Clarke interprets the verse as a rhetorical question aimed at these proud hills, indicating that despite their significance, it is Zion that holds everlasting merit in God's economy. "Only Zion can claim the real blessings of God’s presence," he writes, emphasizing the futility of competing with God’s chosen location.

Clarke also points out that the term "this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in" insinuates God's personal desire and choice. The divine preference for Zion reflects God’s intention to reside among His created beings, an idea leading to profound implications for worship and service. Clarke encourages believers to recognize the sanctity of Zion, symbolizing the Church, and the need to honor God through our worship and life choices.

Theological Implications

The commentary collectively suggests several theological implications from Psalms 68:16:

• Divine Election: The selection of Zion signifies God’s establishment of a covenant relationship with His people, illuminating how divine selection operates throughout redemptive history.
• Permanence of God’s Presence: The text assures believers of a constant divine presence amid the shifting allegiances and powers of the world.
• Humility versus Pride: God’s preference for Zion over the lofty hills serves as a reminder of the Spirit’s work in favoring humility and the meekness of His people.
• Worship and Community: The importance of Zion as a central place of worship calls the church to acknowledge their identity as the dwelling place of God.

Conclusion

Psalms 68:16 invites pastors, theologians, and students alike to reflect on the nature of God’s choice and presence among His people. Through the insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, one gains a multi-faceted understanding of divine election, the contrast between earthly pride and divine humility, and the promise of God's eternal presence in the lives of those He has called to Himself. This informs a richer understanding of worship, community, and life in the light of God’s continuous involvement with humanity.