Psalms 89 - Scofield Reference Notes

Bible Comments

  • Psalms 89:27 open_in_new

    higher than the kings of the earth

    The eighty-ninth Psalm is at once the confirmation and exposition of the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:9-14). That the covenant itself looks far beyond David and Solomon is sure from (Psalms 89:27). "Higher than the kings of the earth" can only refer to Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:13-15); (Isaiah 9:6); (Isaiah 9:7); (Micah 5:2).

    The Psalm is in four parts:

    (1) The covenant, though springing from the lovingkindness of Jehovah, yet rests upon His oath (vs. 1-4).

    (2) Jehovah is glorified for His power and goodness in connection with the covenant (vs 5-18).

    (3) The response of Jehovah (vs. 19-37). This is in two parts:

    (a) it confirms the covenant (Psalms 89:19-29), but

    (b) warns that disobedience in the royal posterity of David will be punished with chastening (Psalms 89:30-32). Historically this chastening began in the division of the Davidic kingdom; (1 Kings 11:26-36); (1 Kings 12:16-20) and culminated in the captivities and that subordination of Israel to the Gentiles which still continues. See "Gentiles, times of"; (Luke 21:24); (Revelation 16:14).

    (4) The plea of the Remnant (Isaiah 1:9); (Romans 11:5) who urge the severity and long continuance of the chastening (Psalms 89:38-52).

    See Psalm 102, next in order of the Messianic Psalms.