Psalm 97

The writer of this psalm saw the Lord coming to rule and reign on the earth. He exhorted his readers to prepare for that event by living appropriately in the present.

 1. The announcement of God's earthly reign 97:1

How do we know that the psalmist was describing a future reign of God and not His eternal reign? The marginal translation, "has assumed kingship,"captures the aspect of God's reign that this psalm presents. God's assumption of worldwide dominion, when Jesus Christ returns, will provide occasion for the whole planet to rejoice as never before.

 2. The appearance of the King 97:2-9

97:2-5 These verses reveal the appearance of the Lord in terms similar to other visions God gave His prophets (cf. Isa. 6:1-4; Ezek. 1; Rev. 1). The psalmist's words describe God's glory in figurative language. Clouds and thick darkness picture awesome power (cf. Deut. 4:11; 5:22-23; cf. Zech. 14:6-7). Fire represents God's consuming judgment (cf. Heb. 12:29). Elsewhere in Scripture the shaking of mountains announced the Lord's coming to earth (Exod. 19:18; cf. Mic. 1:4; Nah. 1:5).

97:6-9 When He comes to reign the heavens will announce His arrival (cf. Rev. 19:11). Everyone will see Him descend (Zech. 12:10). In view of this revelation, idol worshippers should realize their folly. The psalmist called all judges ("gods") to worship Yahweh. God's people can rejoice because He will rule over all the earth one day.

 3. The appropriate response 97:10-12

97:10 Since God loves righteousness it is only fitting that those who love Him should hate evil. By doing so, they become the objects of His blessing rather than partakers of His discipline.

97:11-12 Rejoicing and thanksgiving are also appropriate responses to God's gifts of understanding and joy.¹⁶¹

The vision of God coming to establish His kingdom that this psalm presents should move His people to prepare themselves for that great event (cf. 2 Pet. 3:10-11, 14).