Commentary on Psalms 68:35

Psalms 68:35 states: "O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God." This verse is rich in theological significance and offers deep insight into the nature of God as well as His relationship with His people. Below is a combined commentary that explores various aspects of this verse.

Contextual Background

The Psalms, primarily attributed to David, reflect a wide range of emotions and themes, including praise, lamentation, and thanksgiving. Psalm 68 celebrates God's majesty and power, particularly in the context of Israel's history and its covenant relationship with God. This Psalm is often seen as a victory hymn, celebrating God's triumph over His enemies and the blessings He bestows upon His people.

The Holiness of God

In the phrase "thou art terrible out of thy holy places," the term "terrible" denotes something awe-inspiring and fear-inducing. Albert Barnes notes that God's holiness is central to understanding His nature. God's holiness speaks of His otherness, His majesty, and the greatness that sets Him apart from creation. The "holy places" refer to both the heavenly places where God resides and perhaps the sanctuary on Earth, symbolizing His presence among His people.

• Divine Awe and Fear: The awe inspired by God’s holiness evokes a profound respect and fear, inviting humanity to recognize their own limitations in contrast to His boundless glory.
• Presence of God: As Adam Clarke points out, God’s presence in the “holy places” is a source of both judgment and blessing. His holiness demands reverence and worship, leading believers towards a deeper understanding of His character.

The God of Israel

The attribute of God as "the God of Israel" emphasizes His covenant relationship with His people. Matthew Henry comments on how God’s relationship with Israel reflects His faithfulness and the unique identity of His chosen nation. God's selection of Israel signifies His grace, calling them to be a light among the nations.

• Covenantal Identity: This identity is foundational in understanding the entirety of Scripture where God commits to His people, offering unyielding support and strength.
• National and Personal Strength: God not only strengthens Israel as a nation but also empowers individuals, showing His intimate involvement in the lives of believers.

Strength and Power

The declaration that "the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people" reveals God as a source of omnipotent support. Clarke interprets this as both spiritual and physical empowerment, reassuring leaders and followers of their reliance on divine strength in times of adversity.

• Spiritual Empowerment: God's provision of strength includes equipping His people for ministries, tasks, and the challenges they face, vital for personal and communal growth.
• Physical Strength: In historical contexts, God's power demonstrated in victories over enemies reflects His sovereignty over nations, emphasizing that no earthly power compares to divine authority.

Blessed be God

The phrase "Blessed be God" serves as a doxology, emphasizing the necessity of praise in response to recognizing God's attributes and actions. Barnes observes that it is a reminder that God deserves glory and acknowledgment from His creation. This statement not only concludes the verse but functions as an invitation for believers to adopt a posture of worship and gratitude.

• Call to Praise: The verse inspires a response of thanks and adoration for all God has done, fitting for both individual and corporate worship settings.
• Affirmation of Trust: By blessing God, believers affirm their trust in His character and His ongoing work in the world.

Theological Implications

The implications of this verse are significant for Christians today. Pastors are encouraged to remind their congregations of God's omnipotence and holiness, and how these attributes adequately provide for the needs of His people. The acknowledgment of God’s strength invites believers to rely on Him as their source of empowerment in all facets of life.

• Encouragement in Trials: Understanding God’s power aids believers during struggles, offering comfort that they are not alone but supported by an all-powerful God.
• Worship as a Response: The need to bless and glorify God should be a pivotal aspect of Christian life and congregational worship.

Conclusion

Psalms 68:35 encapsulates the essence of God's nature as both terrifying in His holiness and graciously empowering His people. The insights provided by esteemed commentaries deepen our comprehension of this verse, enabling pastors, theologians, and students alike to appreciate the multifaceted character of God and the appropriate response of praise. The call to worship and acknowledge God's strength remains timeless, encouraging believers to continually seek His presence and power in their lives.