Commentary by A. R. FAUSSET
PSALM 99
God's government is especially exercised in and for His Church, which should praise Him for His gracious dealings.
1. sitteth...cherubim—(compare 1Sa 4:4; Psa 80:1).
tremble...be moved—inspired with fear by His judgments on the wicked.
2. great in Zion—where He dwells (Psa 9:11).
3. thy...name—perfections of justice, power, etc.
great and terrible name—producing dread (Deu 10:17), and to be praised by those over whom He is exalted (Psa 97:9).
it is holy—or, "He is holy" (Psa 99:5, 9; Isa 6:3).
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 Psa 22:3).
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 Exd 18:19; Lev 8:15; Deu 5:5; 1Sa 9:13).
7. cloudy pillar—the medium of divine intercourse (Exd 33:9; Num 12:5). Obedience was united with worship. God answered them as intercessors for the people, who, though forgiven, were yet chastened (Exd 32:10, 34).