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Psalms 115:3
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The poet, with "And our God," in the name of Israel opposes the scornful question of the heathen by the believingly joyous confession of the exaltation of Jahve above the false gods. Israel's God is in the heavens, and is therefore supramundane in nature and life, and the absolutely unlimited One, who is able to do all things with a freedom that is conditioned only by Himself: quod vult, valet (Psa 115:3 = Psa 135:6, Wisd. 12:18, and frequently). The carved gods (עצב, from עצב, cogn. חצב, קצב) of the heathen, on the contrary, are dead images, which are devoid of all life, even of the sensuous life the outward organs of which are imagined upon them. It cannot be proved with Ecc 5:16 that ידיהם and רגליחם are equivalent to ידים להם, רגלים. They are either subjects which the Waw apodosis cf. Gen 22:24; Pro 23:24; Hab 2:5) renders prominent, or casus absoluti (Ges. ֗145, 2), since both verbs have the idols themselves as their subjects less on account of their gender (יד and רגל are feminine, but the Hebrew usage of genders is very free and not carried out uniformly) as in respect of Psa 115:7: with reference to their hands, etc. ימישׁוּן is the energetic future form, which goes over from משׁשׁ into מוּשׁ, for ימשּׁוּ. It is said once again in Psa 115:7 that speech is wanting to them; for the other negations only deny life to them, this at the same time denies all personality. The author might know from his own experience how little was the distinction made by the heathen worship between the symbol and the thing symbolized. Accordingly the worship of idols seems to him, as to the later prophets, to be the extreme of self-stupefaction and of the destruction of human consciousness; and the final destiny of the worshippers of false gods, as he says in Psa 115:8, is, that they become like to their idols, that is to say, being deprived of their consciousness, life, and existence, they come to nothing, like those their nothingnesses (Isa 44:9). This whole section of the Psalm is repeated in Ps 135 (Psa 115:6, Psa 115:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But our God is in the heavens,.... His habitation is in the heavens, as the Targum; the Septuagint and Arabic versions add, "and in earth": he is in both, and fills both with his presence; and cannot be contained in either. He is the Maker and Possessor of heaven and earth; the one is his throne, and the other is his footstool: he dwells in the highest heaven, and overlooks all persons and things on earth, and overrules all; he is higher than the highest, and his kingdom ruleth over all. He hath done whatsoever he pleased; in creation, in providence, and in grace: he hath made what creatures he pleased, and for his pleasure; and he does according to his will, and after the counsel of it, in heaven and in earth; and is gracious to whom he will be gracious; saves and calls men, not according to their works, but according to his own purpose and will; whose counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure; he is the most high God, and a sovereign Being; all that he wills are possible to him, and easily done by him, and which Heathens themselves own (x). (x) , Homer. Odyss. 10. v. 306. "Facile est omnia posse Deo", Ovid. de Arte Amandi, l. 1.
Psalms 115:3
To Your Name Be the Glory
2Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” 3Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Word for Today) Isaiah 11:1 - Part 1
By Chuck Smith7.5K26:00ExpositionalPSA 115:1PSA 115:3ISA 11:1MAT 6:33ROM 1:16In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of seeking a face-to-face encounter with God. He emphasizes the need for believers to have a personal relationship with God and to seek His presence in their lives. Pastor Chuck also highlights the judgment of God and the return of Jesus Christ to the earth. He introduces his new book, "Six Vital Questions of Life," which explores life-changing questions asked by the apostle Paul in the book of Romans. The sermon concludes with information on how to order the book and a preview of the next sermon on the book of Isaiah.
The Dejected Believer's Soliloquy. a Discourse Occasioned by the Decease of Mrs. Ann Button.
By John Gill0Hope in GodOvercoming DespairJOB 6:21JOB 22:29PSA 40:11PSA 84:2PSA 115:3ISA 45:2MAT 11:28ROM 7:23EPH 1:31PE 2:11John Gill preaches on the theme of the dejected believer's struggle with despair, drawing from Psalm 40:11. He reflects on the Psalmist's longing for God's presence amidst trials and afflictions, emphasizing the importance of self-encouragement and hope in God. Gill highlights that believers often face dejection due to sin, Satan's temptations, and the hiddenness of God, yet they are called to remember God's past faithfulness and to praise Him for His grace and mercy. He encourages the congregation to maintain faith and hope, assuring them that they will yet praise God, who is the health of their countenance and their God. The sermon serves as a reminder of the eternal hope and comfort found in God, especially in times of distress.
God's Tools and Instruments
By Thomas Brooks0Divine ProvidenceGod's SovereigntyJOB 1:20PSA 115:3PSA 135:6ISA 45:7AMO 3:6Thomas Brooks emphasizes God's sovereignty over all events, including disasters like the fire that devastated London. He asserts that every judgment, whether it be calamity or prosperity, is under God's command and serves His divine purpose. Brooks illustrates that even seemingly random occurrences are orchestrated by God's providence, and He uses various instruments, including the worst of men, to fulfill His will. The preacher encourages believers to recognize God's hand in all circumstances, affirming that nothing happens without His knowledge and permission. Ultimately, Brooks calls for a deeper understanding of God's authority and the need to trust in His plans, regardless of the trials faced.
God the Sovereign of All Kingdoms
By Samuel Davies0PSA 115:3PRO 21:1ISA 10:5DAN 4:25JOL 2:12Samuel Davies preaches about the sovereignty of God over the kingdoms of men, emphasizing that God's omnipotence did not end after creation but continues to govern the world. He explains that events in the material and rational world are carried out by God's agency, even when using secondary causes. Davies uses the example of King Nebuchadnezzar to illustrate how God can humble the proud and demonstrate His sovereignty over kingdoms. He argues that God's control over the fate of nations is evident through His perfections, declarations in Scripture, common sense, and the remarkable coincidences in critical times.
Predestination
By Thomas Bradbury0NUM 23:19JOB 23:13PSA 115:3PSA 135:6ISA 30:21JER 3:19DAN 4:35JHN 1:13ROM 11:29GAL 4:6EPH 2:10Thomas Bradbury preaches on the unfailing mercy and inexhaustible patience of God towards His wayward children, highlighting His gracious dealings in restoring, saving, and delivering them from bondage. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God's will and experiencing His lovingkindness and tender mercy. The sermon delves into the significance of key phrases in Jeremiah 3, such as the Father's question 'How shall I put thee among the children?' and the child's privilege of calling God 'My Father,' ultimately leading to the child's everlasting security in not turning away from God.
Vision of the Throne
By Denis Lyle0GEN 18:14EXO 28:17PSA 45:6PSA 115:3ISA 6:1MAL 3:6COL 3:111PE 2:5REV 4:8REV 4:10Denis Lyle preaches on the importance of true spiritual worship, emphasizing the need to worship God by recognizing His worth and glory. The sermon delves into Revelation 4-5 to understand how to worship God and give Him the glory He deserves. It explores the absence of the church during the Tribulation period, the significance of the trumpet call for believers, and the heavenly perspective of God's throne, highlighting His greatness, glory, grace, and government. The sermon also discusses the twenty-four elders around God's throne, representing redeemed saints, and the praise offered to God by the four living creatures, showcasing His holiness, sovereignty, omnipotence, eternality, self-existence, and immutability.
The Moral Nature and Fitness of Things Considered
By John Gill0Divine AuthorityMoral LawGEN 1:3PSA 115:3ISA 45:7DAN 4:35EPH 1:11John Gill addresses the sermon 'The Moral Nature and Fitness of Things Considered' by Samuel Chandler, critiquing the notion that moral good and evil exist independently of God's will. He argues that if moral distinctions arise from the nature of things, it implies a deity superior to God, which contradicts divine revelation. Gill emphasizes that moral obligations stem from God's will and nature, not from an abstract moral order, and warns against the implications of viewing moral fitness as a separate standard. He concludes that such views could lead to polytheism, deism, antinomianism, and libertinism, undermining the authority of God's law.
The Holiness of God
By A.W. Pink0Sovereignty Of GodHoliness Of GodPSA 99:9PSA 115:3PRO 16:9ISA 64:6ROM 3:23EPH 1:6HEB 12:14JAS 1:171PE 1:16REV 4:8A.W. Pink emphasizes the absolute holiness of God, asserting that no fallen creature can achieve acceptance with Him through their own actions, as even the best human efforts are tainted by sin. He highlights that God's holiness demands perfection, which is unattainable by humanity, yet through Christ, sinners can find acceptance and refuge. Pink further explains that true worship stems from recognizing God's greatness and sovereignty, which is characterized by His infinite wisdom and goodness. This understanding should lead believers to approach God with reverence, obedience, and heartfelt worship, acknowledging His sovereign will as ultimately good. The sermon concludes with the call to submit to God's sovereignty with a spirit of adoration and trust.
God Is Sovereign
By A.W. Tozer0TheanthropismGod's SovereigntyPSA 115:3ISA 46:10ROM 8:28COL 1:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the glory and sovereignty of God, urging believers to recognize His attributes and the importance of worshiping Him. He expresses a desire for new converts to grasp the majesty of God, which would ignite a deep yearning to honor Him. Tozer points out that many discouraged Christians struggle with the concept of God's sovereignty, which hinders their ability to follow Christ humbly and trustingly. He introduces the concept of 'theanthropism,' highlighting the profound mystery of the divine and human natures united in Jesus Christ. This union is central to understanding our relationship with God and the nature of our worship.
The Sovereignty of God
By A.W. Pink0Sovereignty Of GodDivine AuthorityJOB 42:2PSA 22:28PSA 103:19PSA 115:3PRO 21:1ISA 46:10DAN 4:35ROM 8:28EPH 1:111TI 6:15A.W. Pink emphasizes the sovereignty of God as a foundational truth that has been neglected in contemporary discourse. He explains that God's sovereignty signifies His supremacy, kingship, and ultimate authority over all creation, asserting that He acts according to His will without opposition. Pink laments the loss of understanding regarding this doctrine, which is essential for interpreting history and providence, and for strengthening Christian faith. He highlights that acknowledging God's sovereignty is crucial for recognizing His power and governance over nations and kingdoms. Ultimately, Pink calls believers to reclaim this vital truth that defines the nature of God as the Almighty.
The Sovereignty of God
By Ronald Hanko0GEN 50:20JOB 42:2PSA 115:3PRO 16:9ISA 14:24MAT 11:25LUK 22:22ROM 9:18EPH 1:11PHP 1:6Ronald Hanko preaches about the central truth of the Reformed faith, which is the sovereignty of God, emphasizing that predestination is not the central truth but rather a part of the doctrine. The absolute sovereignty of God is the core of Calvinism, faithful to its heritage, as seen in the confession of God's sovereignty by believers. The knowledge of God is highlighted as man's highest calling and greatest good, with salvation itself consisting of knowing God. The sermon delves into God's sovereignty over all things, including creation, men, salvation, and even the adversities of life, refuting objections and denials of God's sovereignty in various aspects of life.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The poet, with "And our God," in the name of Israel opposes the scornful question of the heathen by the believingly joyous confession of the exaltation of Jahve above the false gods. Israel's God is in the heavens, and is therefore supramundane in nature and life, and the absolutely unlimited One, who is able to do all things with a freedom that is conditioned only by Himself: quod vult, valet (Psa 115:3 = Psa 135:6, Wisd. 12:18, and frequently). The carved gods (עצב, from עצב, cogn. חצב, קצב) of the heathen, on the contrary, are dead images, which are devoid of all life, even of the sensuous life the outward organs of which are imagined upon them. It cannot be proved with Ecc 5:16 that ידיהם and רגליחם are equivalent to ידים להם, רגלים. They are either subjects which the Waw apodosis cf. Gen 22:24; Pro 23:24; Hab 2:5) renders prominent, or casus absoluti (Ges. ֗145, 2), since both verbs have the idols themselves as their subjects less on account of their gender (יד and רגל are feminine, but the Hebrew usage of genders is very free and not carried out uniformly) as in respect of Psa 115:7: with reference to their hands, etc. ימישׁוּן is the energetic future form, which goes over from משׁשׁ into מוּשׁ, for ימשּׁוּ. It is said once again in Psa 115:7 that speech is wanting to them; for the other negations only deny life to them, this at the same time denies all personality. The author might know from his own experience how little was the distinction made by the heathen worship between the symbol and the thing symbolized. Accordingly the worship of idols seems to him, as to the later prophets, to be the extreme of self-stupefaction and of the destruction of human consciousness; and the final destiny of the worshippers of false gods, as he says in Psa 115:8, is, that they become like to their idols, that is to say, being deprived of their consciousness, life, and existence, they come to nothing, like those their nothingnesses (Isa 44:9). This whole section of the Psalm is repeated in Ps 135 (Psa 115:6, Psa 115:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But our God is in the heavens,.... His habitation is in the heavens, as the Targum; the Septuagint and Arabic versions add, "and in earth": he is in both, and fills both with his presence; and cannot be contained in either. He is the Maker and Possessor of heaven and earth; the one is his throne, and the other is his footstool: he dwells in the highest heaven, and overlooks all persons and things on earth, and overrules all; he is higher than the highest, and his kingdom ruleth over all. He hath done whatsoever he pleased; in creation, in providence, and in grace: he hath made what creatures he pleased, and for his pleasure; and he does according to his will, and after the counsel of it, in heaven and in earth; and is gracious to whom he will be gracious; saves and calls men, not according to their works, but according to his own purpose and will; whose counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure; he is the most high God, and a sovereign Being; all that he wills are possible to him, and easily done by him, and which Heathens themselves own (x). (x) , Homer. Odyss. 10. v. 306. "Facile est omnia posse Deo", Ovid. de Arte Amandi, l. 1.