Psalm 97 Bible Commentary

John Wesley’s Explanatory Notes

(Read all of Psalm 97)

Verse 1

[1] The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.

Isles — The Gentile nations, as this word, used Matthew 12:21.

Verse 2

[2] Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.

Darkness — A dark cloud doth encompass him.

Verse 6

[6] The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.

Heavens — The angels, yea God himself from heaven.

Verse 7

[7] Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.

Confounded — Let them be ashamed of their folly.

Gods — All you whom the Gentiles have made the objects of their worship.

Verse 8

[8] Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.

Zion — Thy people dwelling in Zion or Jerusalem, to whom Christ came.

Heard — The fame of thy judgments, and the setting up the kingdom of the Messiah.

Verse 11

[11] Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

Light — Joy and happiness.

Sown — Is laid up for them.