Bible Commentaries

The Ark was brought in with great rejoicing, and we have the psalm sung on the occasion. This great psalm of praise sung by the trained musicians is a compilation of parts of three found in the Book of Psalms, and its three movements are distinguished by the three quotations.

The first part consists of the first fifteen verses of Psalms 105:1-45. This is a general ascription of praise which merges into a call to remembrance of the works of God, and of His government covenant with the people. A slight change is made. In the psalm from which the quotation is made it is declared that God remembered His Covenant. In the form in which it was sung when the Ark was brought in men are called on to remember that Covenant.

The second movement (verses 1 Chronicles 16:23-33) is a quotation from Psalms 96:1-13; Psalms 1:1-6; Psalms 2:1-12; Psalms 3:1-8; Psalms 4:1-8; Psalms 5:1-12; Psalms 6:1-10; Psalms 7:1-17; Psalms 8:1-9; Psalms 9:1-20; Psalms 10:1-18; Psalms 11:1-7; Psalms 12:1-8; Psalms 13:1-6. In this the sacrifice of praise moves on to a higher level, and expresses itself in adoration of God for what He is in Himself in majesty.

The third division (verses 1 Chronicles 16:34-36) is a quotation of the opening and closing sentences of Psalms 106:1-48, verses 1, 47, and 48. Here again praise moves into a yet higher sphere, and consists of an expression of thankfulness to God for what He is in Himself in mercy.

These movements indicate a growth of experience, centering in the presence of the Ark among a people as the symbol of divine interest and nearness. First, it was that around which God led them and made His Covenant with them. Second, it became the assurance of the display of His power and glory under differing circumstances in their history. Finally, its restoration, after a period of neglect, was the sure token of His mercy.