Psalms 99:1-9 - G. Campbell Morgan's Exposition on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

This is a song of the Kingdom of Jehovah as founded upon and administered in holiness. There are three distinct parts, each ending with practically the same refrain. The first acclaims the King enthroned (vv. Psa 99:1-3). The second affirms the absolute integrity of His administration (vv. Psa 99:4-5). The third declares the constant and faithful guidance of His own representatives (vv. Psa 99:6-9).

In each there is a call to the attitude of response to the fact declared. The enthroned King is to be praised. The governing King is to be exalted and worshipped in submission at His footstool. The guiding King is to be exalted and worshipped in fellowship in His holy hill. Finally, in each case, the underlying reason of the King's position and activity, and also therefore, of the response, is that of His holiness. The throne is established in holiness. The guidance is motivated in holiness.

In the fuller light of the Christian revelation we see the threefold fact in the life of God suggested. The Father enthroned; the Son administering His Kingdom; the Spirit interpreting His will through leaders and circumstances, through pity and through punishment.

Psalms 99:1-9

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

2 The LORD is great in Zion; and he is high above all the people.

3 Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy.

4 The king's strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteousness in Jacob.

5 Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy.

6 Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them.

7 He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them.

8 Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions.

9 Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy hill; for the LORD our God is holy.