Psalms 96

Ps 96:1-13.

The substance of this Psalm, and portions of the ninety-seventh,

ninety-eighth, and hundredth, are found in

1Ch 16:7-36,

which was used by David's directions in the dedication of the

tabernacle on Mount Zion. The dispensation of the Messiah was typified

and the introduction of additional and more spiritual services. Hence

the language of these Psalms may be regarded as having a higher import

than that pertinent to the occasion on which it was thus publicly

used.

1-3. All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise.

new song--literally, "fresh," or new mercies

(Ps 33:3; 40:3).

2. show forth--literally, "declare joyful tidings."

salvation--illustrates His glory in its wonders of love and mercy.

4, 5. For He is not a local God, but of universal agency, while idols

are nothing.

6. Honour and majesty--are His attendants, declared in His mighty

works, while power and grace are specially seen in His spiritual

relations to His people.

7-9. Give--or, "ascribe"

(Ps 29:1)

due honor to Him, by acts of appointed and solemn worship in His

house.

8. offering--of thanks.

9. beauty of holiness--

(Ps 29:2).

fear . . . him--

(Ps 2:11).

10. Let all know that the government of the world is ordered in

justice, and they shall enjoy firm and lasting peace (compare

Ps 72:3, 7;

Isa 9:6, 7).

11-13. For which reason the universe is invoked to unite in joy, and

even inanimate nature

(Ro 8:14-22)

is poetically represented as capable of joining in the anthem of

praise.