Bible Commentaries

Psalm 150:1-6.

V:1. It is most probable, that this Psalm was composed on purpose to close the book, perhaps by Psalm 1:1-3.) The word translated " in his sanctuary," may be rendered " for his holiness : " and " the firmament of his " power," while the expression leads the thoughts to the visible heavens, and the bright luminaries which adorn it; (Notes, Genesis 1:6-8. Ezekiel 1:15-28;) was perhaps intended for the invisible heavens, and the glorious displays of the power of God, which excite the admiration and adoration of the blessed inhabitants of those happy regions.

V:3- 5. It would be vain to attempt an explanation of these various kinds of musical instruments, " because the " Hebrews themselves acknowledge they do not understand " them." Bp. Patrick. But it is obvious to remark, that God required his ancient people to employ their whole Psalm 33:2-3; Psalm 81:1-5; Psalm 149:3. Exodus 15:1; Exodus 15:20-21. Numbers 10:2-10. 1 Samuel 10:5-6. 1 Chronicles 15:16; 1 Chronicles 16:4-6; 1 Chronicles 16:37-43; 1 Chronicles 25:17. 2 Chronicles 5:11-14; 2 Chronicles 20:20-21; 2 Chronicles 29:25-30. Ezra 3:8-13.)

V:6. " Let every man living join himself to this sacred " choir, and at every breath praise the Lord, the Giver of " life, and of all good things. To him let all the world, " with one consent, give perpetual praise." Bp. Patrick. Can a more proper conclusion to this book be so much as imagined, than that contained in this striking verse ? The word praise occurs thirteen times in this short psalm.

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

Those who praise the Lord in his sanctuary above, behold displays of his power and glory, of which we can have no conception : but the greatest of all his mighty acts is known in his earthly sanctuary, and forms the foundation of our hope, and the subject of our admiring gratitude. fathomable love of our God, are more displayed in man's redemption, than in all his other works. Let us well study this subject, as our preparation for the world of glory : and let us celebrate the praises of our God and Saviour for it, according to our present capacities and to the utmost of our ability. And surely those expressions of joy and love, which the enraptured Psalmist, as from the third heaven, has so earnestly recommended, cannot be unsuitable to the sacred work, if properly used. Finally, if we begin by separating from the ungodly, and delighting in the sacred word; (Notes, i;) and proceed by lively faith and fervent prayer, to follow after holiness, resist temptation, and maintain communion with God; we may hope In close with exulting praise, and to end our lives, ardently exhorting all that have breath to praise the Lord.