Psalms 99:1 KJV

The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved.

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Psalms 99:1 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 99:1

Bible Verse: "The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved." (Psalms 99:1)

Introduction

This verse, nestled within the enthronement psalms, proclaims God's sovereignty and holiness. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's majesty and the reverence with which we ought to approach Him. By combining the insights of esteemed commentators such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we will explore the multifaceted understanding of this verse.

Divine Sovereignty

Matthew Henry notes that the declaration "The Lord reigneth" affirms the absolute sovereignty of God. He emphasizes that this reign is not merely future but present, calling attention to God's ongoing rule over creation.

Furthermore, Henry interprets the trembling of the people as a natural reaction to the acknowledgment of God's power. It signifies not fear in a tormenting sense but a reverent awe in recognizing His authority.

Divine Presence

Albert Barnes offers insight into the phrase "he sitteth between the cherubims." This imagery draws from the mercy seat above the Ark of the Covenant, which symbolizes God's presence among His people. Barnes suggests that the use of cherubims signifies God's guardianship and the heavenly host's recognition of His majesty.

Thus, this element reinforces the understanding that God's rulership is founded on His intimate presence with humanity, further inviting us to honor Him with our worship and lives.

The Earth and its Response

Adam Clarke expands on the concluding phrase "let the earth be moved." He interprets this as a universal acknowledgment of God's authority, arguing that all of creation responds to the majesty of the Creator. Clarke suggests that while human hearts may at times rebel or disregard God's authority, the natural world continually testifies to His power and lordship.

This collective response of creation urges a posture of humility within humanity. As Clarke eloquently puts it, "the very earth trembles at the presence of its Creator, illustrating the gravity of God's reign.”

Unity in Worship

The thematic elements of reverence, presence, and awe in Psalms 99:1 emphasize the necessity of unity in worship among God's people. The call to "tremble" underlines the importance of approaching God with humility and collective reverence.

A commentary on this theme could suggest that such reverence should translate into our worship practices. Together, in the recognition of His sovereignty, we ought to engage in worship that reflects our understanding of His holiness and lordship over all.

Conclusion

Psalms 99:1 serves as a profound reminder of God’s reign over all creation and the appropriate response required from His people. By encapsulating insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we recognize the layers of meaning found in this text. God is sovereign, present among us, and eliciting a responsive awe that should govern our lives and worship.

As pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars delve into this profound verse, let us be mindful of its implications not only for theology but for our daily lives, inviting us into deeper reverence and response to the reign of the Lord.