Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Commentary on Psalms 98

PSALM 98

Ps 98:1-9. In view of the wonders of grace and righteousness displayed in God's salvation, the whole creation is invited to unite in praise.

1. gotten … victory—literally, "made salvation," enabled Him to save His people.

right hand, and … arm—denote power.

holy arm—or, "arm of holiness," the power of His united moral perfections (Ps 22:3; 32:11).

2. salvation—the result of His righteousness (Ps 7:17; 31:1), and both are publicly displayed.

3. The union of mercy and truth (Ps 57:3; 85:10) secure the blessings of the promise (Ge 12:3; 18:18) to all the world (Isa 52:10).

4-6. make a loud noise—or, "burst forth" (Isa 14:7; 44:23).

before … King—hail Him as your sovereign; and while, with every aid to demonstrate zeal and joy, intelligent creatures are invited to praise, as in Ps 96:11-13, inanimate nature is also summoned to honor Him who triumphs and rules in righteousness and equity.