Psalms 99 - Introduction

This psalm is closely linked in its general character and design with those which have gone before Ps. 95–98, and with the one following Psalms 100:1 - forming a connected group or series. The general subject is the kingship of Yahweh, or the foundations of praise derived from the fact that he reigns, or is king. As the foundation of praise on this account, reference is made in this group of psalms to his attributes; to what he has done in the works of creation; to what he has done for his people; and to the certainty that he will come ultimately to rule over all the earth, and to exercise just judgment among people.

This psalm consists of the following parts:

I. A statement of the fact that Yahweh reigns, and that this should make a deep impression on the world; that the people should tremble; that the earth should be moved, Psalms 99:1.

II. Reasons for this, or reasons why he should be reverenced and adored by mankind, Psalms 99:2. These reasons are two:

(1) The first is derived from the fact that he is a holy and a righteous God, and is therefore worthy of universal adoration, Psalms 99:2.

(2) The second is derived from what he has done for his people: for his merciful interposition in times of trouble, when Moses, and Aaron, and Samuel called upon his name; and from the fact that he answered his people when they cried unto him; and from the manner in which it was done, Psalms 99:6. He had shown himself ready to hear their protection in the cloudy pillar, he had answered their supplications, and had forgiven them. He had not swept them wholly away, or cut them off, but had spared them, and had shown mercy to them.