Psalm 99 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

99:1

Psalm 99:1-9. God‘s government is especially exercised in and for His Church, which should praise Him for His gracious dealings.

sitteth cherubim — (compare 1 Samuel 4:4; Psalm 80:1).

tremble be moved — inspired with fear by His judgments on the wicked.

99:2

great in Zion — where He dwells (Psalm 9:11).

99:3 name — perfections of justice, power, etc.

great and terrible name — producing dread (Deuteronomy 10:17), and to be praised by those over whom He is exalted (Psalm 97:9).

it is holy — or, “He is holy” (Psalm 99:5, Psalm 99:9; Isaiah 6:3).

99:4-5

To His wise and righteous government all nations should render honor.

king‘s judgment — His power is combined with justice.

he is holy — (compare Psalm 22:3).

99:6-8

The experience of these servants of God is cited for encouragement.

among priests, among upon the Lord [and] He spake pillar — may be referred to all three (compare Exodus 18:19; Leviticus 8:15; Deuteronomy 5:5; 1 Samuel 9:13).

99:7

cloudy pillar — the medium of divine intercourse (Exodus 33:9; Numbers 12:5). Obedience was united with worship. God answered them as intercessors for the people, who, though forgiven, were yet chastened (Exodus 32:10, Exodus 32:34).