Psalms 99:6 – “Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel was among those who called on his name; they called on the Lord and he answered them.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 99:6 highlights how God responds to those who earnestly seek Him. The verse references Moses, Aaron, and Samuel—figures who played crucial roles in Israel’s spiritual history. Moses and Aaron served as priests, leading the people in worship and intercession before God. Samuel, though not a priest by birth, was a faithful leader who also called on the Lord in prayer. By mentioning these revered leaders, the psalmist reminds us that when God’s people call on Him with sincere hearts, He listens and responds. It emphasizes that God is approachable and attentive to those who seek Him.
Historical Context
Moses, Aaron, and Samuel lived in different periods of Israel’s history, yet they were united in their dedication to God.
- Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, serving as a mediator between God and the people. He spoke to God directly, especially on Mount Sinai, where he received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 19-20).
- Aaron, Moses’ brother, was the first high priest and led Israel in worship, offering sacrifices on their behalf (Leviticus 8).
- Samuel was a prophet who guided Israel during a time of great spiritual and political transition, including the anointing of Israel’s first kings, Saul and David (1 Samuel 3, 8-10).
By referencing these three, the psalmist emphasizes the enduring nature of God’s relationship with His people. God’s responsiveness to those who faithfully serve Him has been consistent throughout history.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals God as a personal and responsive God who listens to His people. The inclusion of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel shows that God is not distant or detached but is actively involved in the lives of His followers. The theological takeaway here is that God answers prayer. Whether it was Moses interceding for Israel after they sinned, Aaron offering sacrifices, or Samuel praying for guidance, God consistently responded. This truth assures believers that God hears and answers the prayers of His people today.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 99 uses a poetic structure to draw attention to God’s faithfulness and holiness. The mention of specific individuals like Moses, Aaron, and Samuel serves to ground the abstract concept of God’s responsiveness in real historical examples. The repetition of the idea that these leaders “called on the Lord” and “He answered them” emphasizes the reliability of God’s character. This verse serves as a transition, moving from a focus on God’s holiness to highlighting how that holiness is lived out in His interactions with His people.
Biblical Cross-References
This theme of God answering those who call on Him is found throughout Scripture:
- Exodus 33:11: “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.”
- 1 Samuel 7:9: Samuel interceded for Israel, and “the Lord answered him.”
- Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
- Psalm 34:17: “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles.”
These passages reinforce the promise that God listens to those who sincerely seek Him and respond with faith.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 99:6 serves as an encouraging reminder that God is still listening. The examples of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel are not just historical anecdotes; they are testimonies of how God interacts with His people. No matter what we are facing, we are invited to call upon God, knowing that He will hear us. It’s a call to deepen our prayer life, trusting that God will respond, even if His answers may come in ways we do not expect.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s willingness to answer those who call on Him shows His love for His people. He is not a distant deity who is uninterested in our lives. Instead, He draws near when we reach out to Him. Just as He answered Moses, Aaron, and Samuel in their times of need, He is ready to listen to us today. This kind of responsiveness reflects God’s heart of love and His desire for a close relationship with His children.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 99:6 points to Jesus, who is our ultimate High Priest and mediator. Just as Moses, Aaron, and Samuel interceded for the people, Jesus now intercedes for us at the right hand of God (Hebrews 7:25). Through Jesus, we have direct access to God (Hebrews 4:16). He fulfills the role of the mediator perfectly, ensuring that our prayers are heard. In John 14:13-14, Jesus promises, “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How often do you call upon God in times of need, and do you trust that He hears you?
- In what ways can you deepen your prayer life, following the examples of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel?
- How can you encourage others who may feel that God is distant and not listening to their prayers?
- What can you learn from the way Jesus intercedes for us today?
- How does knowing that God responds to His people impact your trust in Him during difficult times?
Psalm 99:6 encourages us to remember that God is faithful, approachable, and ready to respond when we seek Him. It challenges us to be people of prayer, trusting in the One who has proven throughout history that He hears and answers His people.