Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · Psalms Kapitel 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 by that event, involving, as it did, a more permanent seat of worship, 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.