Psalm 97 Part 1

This is a noble psalm that continues in the enthronement theme and tone of the previous two, but not for an earthly King. The writer’s mind is saturated with allusions and phrases found in other psalms and OT passages, which he gives new meaning to. He is not ‘original,’ and does not try to be so; but he has drunk in the spirit of his predecessors and has shaped a magnificent song. A song where the effects of God’s judgments are declared, His adversaries are destroyed, His glory is revealed, and His people are filled with joy. Psalms 96,97, and 98 each hail God’s coming as the world’s King. But Psalms96 and 98 soar with delight at what is in store for the world when God returns, while in Ps97 the frightening, awesome side of God’s kingly rule is emphasized.

In the first part, (v1-5) the glory of God is revealed. He is hidden in the mystery of clouds and thick darkness, irresistible fire proceeds him, lightning and thunder manifest his power, these are demonstrations of the unqualified sovereignty of God. The psalmist may have had in mind the appearance of God at Mount Sinai when he wrote this. The foundation of God’s throne consists of righteousness and justice. God’s power is not arbitrary but expresses God’s character of mercy and truth. And God exercises this rule by intervening in the history of his people.

The second part of the Psalm (v6-9) shows how nature and human beings respond to the revelation of God’s glory. Nature’s response is simple and clear: the heavens proclaim God’s righteousness. But among human beings, the response is mixed. The Psalm frankly admits that not all people worship God. The same sun that melts butter hardens clay, and so when God’s glory is revealed, those who worship idols are ‘ashamed’ — even the idols bow down before the one true God! (v7). What a contrast with the response of Zion (God’s faithful people); they rejoice in God’s judgments (v8). Despite this mixed response, section two of the Psalm reaffirms that God is exalted over the earth and “far above all gods” (v9). C.F. Eph1:21