Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 99

These psalms challenge the doubts created by the exile (see Psalm 89) and answer the questions asked in Psalm 90:11, 13. The Lord has established a kingdom (Psalm 93) that is characterized by:

• punishment of the wicked (Psalm 94),

• respectful obedience among his people (Psalm 95),

• justice for the poor (Psalm 96),

• celebration in Zion (Psalm 97),

• salvation for Israel (Psalm 98),

• holiness (Psalm 99), and

• praise (Psalm 100).

The Lord is the holy and righteous King (Isaiah 6:1–5). Mount Zion, where the temple of the Lord is located, metaphorically stands as the highest point on earth (Psalm 113:4; Isaiah 2:2; 6:1). From this high place, the "great King" (Psalm 47:2) can see, rule over, and receive praise from all nations and peoples.

The psalmist calls the nations to worship the Lord, the king of the earth who rules from Zion.

• It is appropriate to tremble and quake in response to the Lord’s holiness (see Psalm 96:9).

• The throne between the cherubim refers to the cover of the ark of the Testimony (Exodus 25:17–22).

The qualities of the Lord’s rule include:

• strength,

• justice,

• love,

• fairness, and

• righteousness (see Psalms 93:4; 97:2, 6–7, 12; 98:2–3, 9; 138:6).

God showed favor by responding to his people in the past, while holding sinners accountable.

Moses and Samuel were great models and leaders who had prayed on behalf of the Lord’s people (Exodus 32:31–32; 1 Samuel 12:23).

The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron from the pillar of cloud (Exodus 33:9; Numbers 12:5–6). For a while, the people responded to the revelation.