Psalms 100

Psalms 100:8

8. Thou answeredst them, &c.] The construction of the verse seems to be this: “O Lord our God, Thou didst hear, or answer them;” that is, the aforementioned typical mediators, Moses, Aaron, and Samuel; “Thou becamest a forbearing God for them,” or, at their intercession; and that, “even when punishing,” or, when Thou hadst begun to punish, “the wicked deeds of them;” that is, not of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, but of the people, who had transgressed, and for whom they interceded. This was the case when Moses interceded for the idolaters, Exod. xxvii. 32; Aaron for the schismatics, Numb. xvi. 47; and Samuel for the whole nation, 1 Sam. vii. 9. Bp. Horne.

In this Psalm we learn, that it is the duty of those who have the happiness to know God, and to be the subjects of his kingdom, to fear him, to reverence his majesty, to worship Him with the profoundest humility, and without ceasing to celebrate his name, which is great, terrible, and holy. We also see in this Psalm, that God did formerly deliver the Israelites, when Moses, Aaron, and Samuel called upon Him; and that He also took vengeance on them for their sins, when they offended Him. This shews, that as God is always good, He is also just, and has sometimes made men feel the marks of his mercy, and sometimes of his wrath, to engage them to love and fear Him. Ostervald.

Psalm C. This is a solemn invitation to all the world to acknowledge, serve, and praise God, the Creator of all men, the guardian of his people, and the merciful performer of all his promises, through all generations. It is used in the daily service of the Church, as a general acknowledgment of gratitude for the Divine blessings, and as an excitement to the congregation to join in the praise of God. Travell.

Ver. 4.—into his gates] That is, into the gates of his sanctuary. Bp. Patrick.

is everlasting; and his truth endureth † to all generations.