Psalms 97 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 97 Psa 97:1-12 . The writer celebrates the Lord's dominion over nations and nature, describes its effect on foes and friends, and exhorts and encourages the latter. 1-2. This dominion is a cause of joy, because, even though our minds are oppressed with terror before the throne of the King of kings ( Ex 19:16 ; De 5:22 ), we know it is based on righteous principles and judgments which are according to truth.
3-5. The attending illustrations of God's awful justice on enemies ( Psa 83:14 ) are seen in the disclosures of His almighty power on the elements of nature (compare Psa 46:2 ; 77:17 ; Ha 3:6 , &c.).
6. heavens-- or, their inhabitants ( Psa 50:6 ), as opposed to "nations" in the latter clause (compare Is 40:5 ; 66:18 ).
7. Idolaters are utterly put to shame, for if angels must worship Him, how much more those who worshipped them. all ye gods-- literally, "all ye angels" ( Psa 8:5 ; 138:1 ; He 1:6 ; 2:7). Paul quotes, not as a prophecy, but as language used in regard to the Lord Jehovah, who in the Old Testament theophania is the second person of the Godhead.
8-9. The exaltation of Zion's king is joy to the righteous and sorrow to the wicked. daughters of Judah-- (Compare Psa 48:11 ).
10-12. Let gratitude for the blessings of providence and grace incite saints ( Psa 4:3 ) to holy living. Spiritual blessings are in store, represented by light ( Psa 27:1 ) and gladness.