Psalms 96 Sing a New Song to the Lord

The substance of this psalm, and portions of the ninety-seventh, ninety-eighth, and hundredth, are found in 1ch 16:7-36, which was used by David's directions in the dedication of the tabernacle on mount Zion. The dispensation of the messiah was typified by that event, involving, as it did, a more permanent seat of worship, and the introduction of additional and more spiritual services. Hence the language of these psalms may be regarded as having a higher import than that pertinent to the occasion on which it was thus publicly used

1-3

All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise. new song — literally, "fresh," or new mercies (Ps 33:3; 40:3).

2

show forth — literally, "declare joyful tidings." salvation — illustrates His glory in its wonders of love and mercy.

4,5

For He is not a local God, but of universal agency, while idols are nothing.

6

Honour and majesty — are His attendants, declared in His mighty works, while power and grace are specially seen in His spiritual relations to His people.

7-9

Give — or, "ascribe" (Ps 29:1) due honor to Him, by acts of appointed and solemn worship in His house.

8

offering — of thanks.

9

beauty of holiness — (Ps 29:2). fear... him — (Ps 2:11).

10

Let all know that the government of the world is ordered in justice, and they shall enjoy firm and lasting peace (compare Ps 72:3, 7; Isa 9:6, 7).

11-13

For which reason the universe is invoked to unite in joy, and even inanimate nature (Ro 8:14-22) is poetically represented as capable of joining in the anthem of praise.