Psalms 8:4
Verse
Context
How Majestic Is Your Name!
3When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— 4what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him? 5You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
man--literally, "frail man," an allusion to his essential infirmity. son of man--only varies the form of speech. visitest--in favor (Psa 65:10). This favor is now more fully illustrated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
What is man, that thou art mindful of him?.... That is, the psalmist, while he was considering the greatness and glory of the celestial bodies, thought this within himself, and so expressed it; which is to be understood, not of man in general, nor of Adam in a state of innocence; he could not be called "Enosh", the word here used, which signifies a frail, weak, sickly mortal man; nor could he with any propriety be said to be the son of man, as in the following clause: nor of fallen man, or of Adam's posterity, descending from him by ordinary generation; for all things are not put in subjection to them, as is hereafter said of man: but this is to be understood of the man Christ Jesus, as it is interpreted in Heb 2:6; or of that individual of human nature which Christ assumed. The name of Enosh well agrees with him, who was a man of no note and esteem among men, a worm and no man, a man of sorrows and acquainted with griefs, encompassed with infirmities, and was subject to death, and did die. Now it was a marvellous thing that God should be mindful of that individual of human nature; that he should prepare it in his council and covenant; that among the vast numbers of individuals which it came up in his infinite mind to create, he should choose this, to exalt it, and appoint it to union with his own Son, and take that delight in it he did; that when it was formed by his Spirit, he should anoint it with the oil of gladness above his fellows; that he should take such providential care of it, and so often and so strongly express his affection for it; that he should regard it, and support it under sufferings; and when in the grave, did not leave it, nor suffer it to see corruption; but raised it from the dead, and gave it glory, and exalted it at his own right hand; and the son of man, that thou visitest him? The name of "the son of man" is the name of the Messiah, in Psa 80:17; and is often given to Christ, and used by him of himself in the New Testament. And this visiting of him is not to be understood in a way of wrath, though he was so visited by God, when he bore the chastisements of his people; but in a way of favour, by bestowing upon him without measure the gifts and graces of his Spirit; by affording him his gracious presence, and tilling him with spiritual peace and joy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:4 human beings (literally son of Adam): The Hebrew idiom son of man (or son of Adam) means a human being. Through the influence of Dan 7:13-14, it became a title with divine overtones in the New Testament. See Heb 2:6-8, where this passage is quoted.
Psalms 8:4
How Majestic Is Your Name!
3When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— 4what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him? 5You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Hebrews - Part 9): What Is Man That Thou Art Mindful of Him?
By A.W. Tozer5.2K27:26ExpositionalGEN 3:9PSA 8:4PSA 139:1ISA 53:6JHN 3:16ROM 5:8EPH 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the wickedness of mankind and how our daily conduct is evidence of our guilt. He argues that anyone who doubts the fall of man and the iniquity of the human race only needs to look at the news or observe people's behavior to be convinced. The preacher also reflects on the love and mercy of God, despite humanity's unworthiness. He highlights a news report about the Chicago Aircraft crash, where teenagers acted irreverently and people stole from the dead bodies, as an example of the iniquity that exists in every person. The sermon concludes by stating that history serves as an indictment of mankind's sinful nature.
What Kind of Being Is Man - Part 1
By Paris Reidhead4.2K50:31Sinful NatureGEN 9:2JOB 4:19JOB 7:17JOB 25:6PSA 8:4ISA 40:22JAS 3:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the nature of God and highlights several characteristics of God mentioned in the scripture. He emphasizes that God is right, truth, light, life, and love. The preacher uses an analogy of a father coming home to his children to illustrate the importance of genuine love and relationship rather than programmed actions. He concludes by stating that God desires a meaningful and genuine relationship with humanity, and if God had made humans incapable of choosing to love Him, it would have been a mere mechanical response rather than a heartfelt expression.
We See Jesus
By David Wilkerson2.7K42:54PSA 8:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus amidst the brokenness and chaos of the world. It highlights the need to see Jesus in every situation, to maintain faith and peace, and to avoid being entangled in political or divisive matters. The message encourages prayer for all people and finding identity, strength, and hope in Christ alone.
The Secret of a Happy Life
By J.C. Ryle1.4K1:13:05PSA 8:4PSA 34:8PSA 119:11PSA 119:105PSA 144:1PSA 144:15The sermon transcript discusses the importance of finding true happiness and the misconceptions surrounding it. It emphasizes that true happiness comes from the grace of God and living a righteous and godly life. The speaker encourages listeners to come to Christ for salvation and to resist the temptation of worldly desires. The transcript also provides hints for Christians to increase their happiness, such as being content with what they have and not envying others. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for a relationship with God and living according to His teachings in order to find true happiness.
Human Life and Its Value
By J. Glyn Owen1.4K43:48Human LifePSA 8:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the unique value and dignity of human life. He references the passage from the Epistle to the Hebrews that speaks of man being made lower than the angels but crowned with glory and honor. The speaker argues that society's failure to recognize the distinction between human beings and other creatures has led to the devaluation of human life. He calls for the proclamation of the word of God and the declaration of the meaning and purpose of life to combat this devaluation. Additionally, the speaker highlights the potential destiny of man as rulers of the universe and emphasizes the responsibility to not harm fellow human beings.
God Cares and Loves You 1 - Part 3
By Joshua Daniel1.1K09:50PSA 8:4LUK 15:4ROM 5:81CO 13:4This sermon reflects on the concept of love, highlighting the depth of God's unconditional love for humanity despite our flaws and shortcomings. It emphasizes the transformative power of God's love, using the analogy of the lost sheep to illustrate God's relentless pursuit of us. The speaker expresses gratitude for God's mercy and grace, acknowledging the wonder of being chosen and redeemed by God's love.
Jesus, a Friend of Sinners
By Jack Hyles58534:09PSA 8:4ISA 53:12MAT 27:46LUK 19:10ROM 5:81TI 2:5HEB 7:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the role of Jesus as a friend of sinners. He highlights how Jesus never engaged in sinful thoughts, words, or actions, yet he willingly gave his life for sinners. The preacher shares a personal story of encountering an obnoxious and dirty man who he later discovers has been transformed by God's grace. This experience leads the preacher to understand the importance of working with sinners and sharing the message of Jesus' love and redemption. The sermon concludes with the preacher's realization that both he and his own son were sinners in need of salvation, emphasizing the universal need for Jesus as a friend and savior.
(Through the Bible) Psalms - Part 1
By Zac Poonen51957:54PSA 1:2PSA 2:12PSA 3:3PSA 4:4PSA 5:3PSA 6:2PSA 8:4PSA 11:5PSA 19:7PSA 23:1This sermon delves into the Book of Psalms, highlighting its significance in the New Testament and the various authors behind its composition. It explores the division of Psalms into five books, drawing parallels to the first five books of Moses. The sermon emphasizes the importance of meditating on God's Word, seeking His guidance, and the power of praise and trust in God amidst trials and tribulations.
Four Foundational Aspects of the Millennial Kingdom (With Korean Translation)
By Mike Bickle241:02:46Millennial KingdomGod's Plan for HumanityGEN 1:26PSA 8:4Mike Bickle discusses the four foundational aspects of the Millennial Kingdom, emphasizing God's original plan for humanity to have dominion over creation and to be in a close relationship with Him. He explains that this plan includes a supernatural dimension (the New Jerusalem), a physical dimension (the Garden of Eden), a political dimension (the Kingdom of David), and a relational dimension (the house of prayer). Bickle highlights that these aspects will converge at the second coming of Jesus, fulfilling God's promises and restoring creation. He encourages believers to have a clear understanding of their eternal future, as it impacts their present lives and obedience to God.
Lecture on Hebrews 2
By John Nelson Darby0Human DignityChrist's RedemptionPSA 8:4John Nelson Darby explores the profound question from Psalms 8, 'What is man, that thou art mindful of him?' He emphasizes the contrast between man's insignificance and God's grand design, revealing that through Christ, humanity is elevated to a position of glory and honor. Darby explains that while angels are powerful beings, they do not share in the redemptive grace that God extends to humanity through Jesus, who became a man to redeem and associate us with Himself. He highlights the importance of Christ's suffering and how it enables Him to sympathize with our weaknesses, ultimately leading us to glory as joint-heirs with Him. The sermon concludes with the assurance that Christ, as our High Priest, understands our trials and provides grace in our time of need.
Letter: 9e 27 Mrs Ord, Hereford, 1838
By John Nelson Darby0Christ's Mediatorial RoleThe Divinity of ChristPSA 8:41CO 15:28John Nelson Darby addresses Mrs. Ord regarding the distinction between Christ's kingdom as Man and His divine glory as God, emphasizing that the kingdom given to Christ is separate from His Godhead. He explains that while Christ's dominion is established through His resurrection, it does not diminish His divine nature. Darby highlights the importance of understanding Christ's role as mediator and the significance of His obedience and subjection, which reflect His perfect humanity. He reassures that the truths of Christ's divinity and humanity are essential for spiritual communion and understanding God's glory. Ultimately, Darby encourages a deep faith in the revelation of Jesus as both God and Man, which is foundational to Christian belief.
The Suffering Son of Man Hebrews 2
By John Nelson Darby0Christ as High PriestThe Suffering of ChristPSA 8:4HEB 2:9HEB 10:12John Nelson Darby emphasizes the dual nature of Christ as both divine and human, highlighting His suffering and humiliation as essential for our salvation. He explains that Christ's role as the Apostle and High Priest is rooted in His experience of suffering, which enables Him to empathize with our weaknesses. The sermon underscores the significance of Christ's completed work on the cross, which purged our sins and perfected our conscience, allowing us to approach God with boldness. Darby also discusses the four reasons for Christ's suffering: to glorify God, to destroy death, to make reconciliation for sins, and to provide succor to the tempted. Ultimately, he calls believers to recognize the full efficacy of Christ's work and to live in dependence on His grace.
Notes of a Reading on Colossians 1 (1879)
By John Nelson Darby0Understanding Christ's AuthorityWalking Worthy of the LordPSA 8:4COL 1:3HEB 1:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of understanding the titles of God and Christ, particularly 'Father' and 'Lord,' which reflect our relationship as children and servants. He explains that Christ, as the Creator and established Heir, will ultimately take possession of all things after redemption, binding Satan and removing evil. Darby highlights the importance of recognizing our current position as raised with Christ, yet still awaiting our full inheritance in glory. He encourages believers to walk worthy of the Lord, filled with the knowledge of His will, and to rely on His power for endurance and joy. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's faithfulness in keeping us secure in our salvation.
All Riches Found in Christ
By Erlo Stegen0God's SacrificeSpiritual RichesPSA 8:4ISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 8:32Erlo Stegen emphasizes the profound truth that all riches are found in Christ, drawing from Romans 8:32 to illustrate God's immense love in sacrificing His Son for humanity. He compares this sacrifice to a mother's heartbreaking decision to give up her child for a better life, highlighting the depth of God's love and the significance of His gift. Stegen urges believers to recognize the wealth of spiritual blessings available through Christ, encouraging them to embrace their identity as heirs to God's promises. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their spiritual poverty despite the abundance provided by God, urging transformation through understanding this truth.
Job 9:2
By Chuck Smith0Relationship with GodMediationJOB 9:2PSA 8:4ISA 59:11TI 2:5Chuck Smith explores the profound need for a mediator, or 'daysman,' as expressed by Job in his suffering. He emphasizes Job's isolation and despair, highlighting the contrast between God's greatness and man's insignificance. Smith reveals that the ultimate answer to Job's cry is found in Jesus Christ, the one mediator who bridges the gap between God and humanity. Through Christ's sacrifice, believers can access God and experience a personal relationship with Him. The sermon calls for a submission to Christ, recognizing Him as the only way to approach God.
Psalms 8:4
By Chuck Smith0Relationship with GodHuman DignityGEN 1:27PSA 8:4ISA 43:7MAT 10:29JHN 1:14ROM 12:2EPH 2:10COL 3:101TI 3:16HEB 2:7Chuck Smith explores the profound question 'What is man?' by emphasizing that a true understanding of humanity begins with God. He highlights that God is mindful of us, having created us with purpose and dignity, and that our worth is not defined by our achievements but by our relationship with the Creator. Smith contrasts the view of man as a mere accident of evolution with the biblical perspective that we are made in God's image, crowned with glory and honor. He urges listeners to recognize their place in creation, acknowledging God's supremacy and our responsibility as stewards of His creation.
The Voice of Ezekiel (Continued) I
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Role of the ProphetHearing God's VoicePSA 8:4ACT 13:27T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the importance of recognizing the deeper 'Voice' behind the familiar words of the prophets, particularly in the context of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry. He highlights how Ezekiel, referred to as 'Son of Man', serves as a representative of God's sovereignty and the suffering aspect of the prophetic role. Sparks draws a connection between Ezekiel and Christ, noting that while Ezekiel was a 'Son of Man', Jesus is 'THE Son of Man', embodying the fullness of God's redemptive plan. He warns that the Jewish people's national prejudice and their unwillingness to accept a suffering Messiah blinded them to the true message of Christ. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper spiritual understanding to truly hear the voice of God amidst the familiar words of scripture.
Yes, God Loves Us
By A.W. Tozer0God's LoveHuman DignityGEN 1:27PSA 8:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes that a true understanding of life is divinely revealed, centered on the belief that God is the foundation of the universe. He argues against the notion that humans are merely special pets of God, asserting instead that humanity, created in God's image, holds a unique and beloved status in the universe. Tozer highlights that redeemed humanity is destined for a relationship with God, surpassing even the angels, and is called to worship Him eternally. This understanding reinforces the idea that God is the only certain foundation for our lives.
I in Them, and Thou in Me
By A.B. Simpson0Holy Spirit's WorkDivine PotentialPSA 8:4JHN 14:17ACT 1:8ROM 12:11CO 3:162CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 3:20COL 1:271PE 2:5A.B. Simpson emphasizes the vast potential of the human soul, created in God's image, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in realizing this potential. He encourages believers to allow God to cleanse and fill their hearts, enabling them to become the temple of His presence. Simpson highlights that through the Holy Spirit, dormant abilities are awakened, leading to a fuller understanding of God's purpose for our lives. Ultimately, he invites us to marvel at the divine craftsmanship in our lives and to recognize our worth in God's eyes.
What Kind of Being Is Man? Part 4
By Paris Reidhead0PSA 8:4JHN 8:36ROM 3:23ROM 6:62CO 10:5GAL 2:20PHP 4:81PE 1:13Paris Reidhead delves into the nature of man, emphasizing the importance of understanding what kind of being man is. He explores the concept of man being made in the image and likeness of God, highlighting the value and potential God has invested in every individual. Reidhead discusses the power of the human mind, its creative abilities, and the significance of thoughts, memories, and habits carried into the Christian life. He stresses the importance of recognizing the intrinsic capacity and abilities of man, including the mind's potential to imagine, plan, and achieve great things.
What Kind of Being Is Man? Part 5
By Paris Reidhead0GEN 1:1PSA 8:4ECC 12:1ROM 2:142CO 13:5COL 1:27Paris Reidhead delves into Psalms 8, exploring the profound question of what kind of being man is in the eyes of God. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing man's unique position as created by God, a little lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honor, and given dominion over all creation. Reidhead challenges the prevalent secular ideologies that deny God's role in creating man and highlights the responsibility and rebellion of humanity against God. He contrasts the worldview that man is essentially good with the biblical truth that man is imperfect, sinful, and in need of redemption through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
What Kind of Being Is Man? Part 1
By Paris Reidhead0GEN 1:27PSA 8:4JHN 1:29JHN 8:36JHN 17:23ROM 3:101CO 11:7Paris Reidhead delves into the nature of man, emphasizing the importance of understanding what kind of being man is and the historical conflicts surrounding anthropology. He explores the significance of man being made in the image of God, with the capacity to think, choose, and create, reflecting God's attributes of light, life, truth, and love. Reidhead traces the origins of sin, highlighting the pivotal moment when an intelligent being chose to go against God's will, leading to the fall of man. He concludes by underscoring the depth of God's love for humanity, despite our sinful nature, and the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.
The Finger of God
By Tom Macartney0PSA 8:4JHN 3:19ACT 20:24ROM 1:20EPH 6:10Tom Macartney preaches about the God-given signposts in a lost and confused world, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these signposts that point to God's truth and grace. The sermon highlights five ways in which the finger of God acts as a great signpost: through creation and man's creation, the Bible as God's true message, the spiritual and moral nature of man, the uniqueness of the gospel of grace, and the victory of the cross shown in transformed lives.
Consider the Hidden Judgments of God Lest You Become Proud of Your Own Good Deeds
By Thomas a Kempis0JOB 4:14PSA 8:4PRO 3:51CO 1:28JAS 4:10Thomas a Kempis, in 'The Disciple' sermon, reflects on the awe-inspiring holiness and judgment of the Lord, emphasizing the insignificance of humanity in comparison. He acknowledges the need for God's guidance, defense, and protection in all aspects of life, highlighting the frailty and instability of human nature without divine intervention. Kempis humbly submits to the unfathomable judgments of God, recognizing the vanity of human glory and the eternal truth of the Lord's sovereignty.
Man Has No Good in Himself and Can Glory in Nothing
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 8:4PSA 115:1PSA 146:31CO 1:31HEB 13:8JAS 4:6Thomas a Kempis preaches about the humility and dependence of man on God, acknowledging human insignificance and the need for divine grace and strength. He contrasts the unchanging nature of God with the ever-changing state of man, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's help for true conversion and steadfastness. Kempis highlights the vanity of self-glory and the true glory found in praising God and delighting in His name, rather than seeking human praise or worldly recognition.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
man--literally, "frail man," an allusion to his essential infirmity. son of man--only varies the form of speech. visitest--in favor (Psa 65:10). This favor is now more fully illustrated.
John Gill Bible Commentary
What is man, that thou art mindful of him?.... That is, the psalmist, while he was considering the greatness and glory of the celestial bodies, thought this within himself, and so expressed it; which is to be understood, not of man in general, nor of Adam in a state of innocence; he could not be called "Enosh", the word here used, which signifies a frail, weak, sickly mortal man; nor could he with any propriety be said to be the son of man, as in the following clause: nor of fallen man, or of Adam's posterity, descending from him by ordinary generation; for all things are not put in subjection to them, as is hereafter said of man: but this is to be understood of the man Christ Jesus, as it is interpreted in Heb 2:6; or of that individual of human nature which Christ assumed. The name of Enosh well agrees with him, who was a man of no note and esteem among men, a worm and no man, a man of sorrows and acquainted with griefs, encompassed with infirmities, and was subject to death, and did die. Now it was a marvellous thing that God should be mindful of that individual of human nature; that he should prepare it in his council and covenant; that among the vast numbers of individuals which it came up in his infinite mind to create, he should choose this, to exalt it, and appoint it to union with his own Son, and take that delight in it he did; that when it was formed by his Spirit, he should anoint it with the oil of gladness above his fellows; that he should take such providential care of it, and so often and so strongly express his affection for it; that he should regard it, and support it under sufferings; and when in the grave, did not leave it, nor suffer it to see corruption; but raised it from the dead, and gave it glory, and exalted it at his own right hand; and the son of man, that thou visitest him? The name of "the son of man" is the name of the Messiah, in Psa 80:17; and is often given to Christ, and used by him of himself in the New Testament. And this visiting of him is not to be understood in a way of wrath, though he was so visited by God, when he bore the chastisements of his people; but in a way of favour, by bestowing upon him without measure the gifts and graces of his Spirit; by affording him his gracious presence, and tilling him with spiritual peace and joy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:4 human beings (literally son of Adam): The Hebrew idiom son of man (or son of Adam) means a human being. Through the influence of Dan 7:13-14, it became a title with divine overtones in the New Testament. See Heb 2:6-8, where this passage is quoted.