Bible Commentaries

PSALM 100

THE ARGUMENT

This Psalm seems to have been composed for the use of the Israelites in their thank-offerings, or upon other solemn occasions of praising God, as the title speaks; but withal it hath a further prospect, even to the days of the Messiah, as some of the Hebrew doctors acknowledge, and to the calling of the Gentiles, whom he invites to join with them in the praises of God their Lord and Maker.

An exhortation to praise God joyfully, Psalms 100:1,2, for his greatness, power, Psalms 100:3,4, goodness, and faithfulness to his church, Psalms 100:5.

Make a joyful noise; partly with voices and songs of rejoicing and thanksgiving; and partly with musical instruments, as the manner then was.

All ye lands; all the inhabitants of the earth. Or, all the land, i.e. all the people of Israel dwelling in this land. Although his invitation seems to be more general, extending also to the Gentiles, of whom many even in those days joined themselves to the church of God.

It is he that hath made us; both by creation, and by adoption and regeneration, whereby he made us his people, which also is called a creation or making, as Deuteronomy 32:6 Isaiah 29:23 43:7 Ephesians 2:10.

And not we ourselves; therefore we owe him homage and service, and him only, and not other gods, who made us not.

Enter into his gates; the gates of his courts; for the people might enter no further, and the courts had walls and gates as well as the house.