Overview

Psalm 99 is a powerful and celebratory hymn that exalts the sovereignty of God. It emphasizes God’s kingship, holiness, and justice while calling His people to worship in reverence and awe. The psalm is a declaration of God’s rule over Israel and the nations, highlighting the righteousness and justice of His reign. This chapter presents God as a transcendent King who is both exalted above all creation and intimately involved in the lives of His people. The psalmist reminds the congregation of God’s past deeds, particularly His faithfulness to the leaders of Israel, such as Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, and calls for worship and obedience in light of God’s holiness. Theologically, Psalm 99 underscores God’s moral purity, justice, and authority over the world, while also emphasizing His closeness to His people, acting as a divine ruler who is also a compassionate deliverer.

Historical and Literary Context

Psalm 99 is part of the final collection of royal psalms that celebrate God’s kingship over Israel and the entire earth. It is part of a series of psalms that affirm God’s sovereignty, justice, and holiness. The psalm is particularly concerned with the temple worship in Jerusalem, where God’s presence was symbolically present, and it is likely that it was used during temple worship to extol God’s supremacy.

Historically, this psalm calls to mind the events of the Exodus, the leadership of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, and the establishment of God’s covenant with Israel. The psalm celebrates God’s active presence in history, reminding the people of His guidance and protection in the past. It also reflects a time when Israel was experiencing or seeking the blessings of God’s justice and rule in the face of foreign threats or internal disobedience.

The literary structure of Psalm 99 is a call to worship that alternates between declaring God’s attributes and inviting His people to respond in reverence and praise. It is a hymn of praise to God, acknowledging both His transcendence and immanence.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. God’s Sovereignty and Kingship: Psalm 99 celebrates the rule of God as King. His throne is established in the heavens, and He reigns over all creation with absolute authority. This theme reflects God’s ultimate control over all things, a doctrine that affirms the inerrancy of His sovereign will.
2. God’s Holiness: The psalm emphasizes God’s holiness, stating that the Lord is “holy” three times (verse 3, 5, 9). This repetition stresses the importance of God’s purity and moral perfection. His holiness is central to the biblical understanding of His nature and is a reminder of the need for worshippers to approach Him with reverence and awe.
3. God’s Justice: God’s rule is characterized by justice. The psalm highlights His righteousness in ruling the nations (verses 4 and 8). God’s justice ensures that His reign is not arbitrary but is always aligned with His moral perfection. This serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of justice in our own lives and societies.
4. God’s Faithfulness to His People: Psalm 99 draws attention to God’s past actions on behalf of Israel’s leaders, such as Moses, Aaron, and Samuel. These figures represent God’s covenantal faithfulness, and their mention underscores the importance of God’s ongoing relationship with His people, offering assurance of His continued guidance.
5. The Call to Worship: The psalm calls for reverent worship of the holy and just God, with an emphasis on praising Him for His justice, holiness, and sovereignty. Worship is not merely a matter of ritual but is an expression of submission to God’s rightful reign over the world.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verse 1: 

“The Lord reigns, let the nations tremble; he sits enthroned between the cherubim, let the earth shake.”

This opening verse establishes the primary theme of the psalm: God’s reign as King over all creation. The phrase “The Lord reigns” affirms God’s sovereignty. His rule is absolute and unchallenged. The reference to the nations trembling implies that God’s reign is not only over Israel but extends over the entire world, including all the nations. This is a call for the nations to recognize and fear God’s supremacy.

The imagery of God sitting “enthroned between the cherubim” is significant. In the Old Testament, the cherubim were associated with God’s presence, particularly in the Holy of Holies, above the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:22). This imagery emphasizes God’s transcendence and holiness. His throne is established in the heavens, and He is sovereign over both heaven and earth. The phrase “let the earth shake” conveys the power and majesty of God’s presence, evoking a sense of awe and reverence.

Cross-references:

• 1 Chronicles 28:2-3: King David speaks of the Lord’s throne and His rule over Israel.
• Revelation 19:6: The heavenly declaration of God’s sovereignty over the nations.

Doctrinal Insight: This verse speaks to God’s absolute and universal reign, which calls all of creation to tremble in His presence. God’s sovereignty is a core evangelical doctrine, reminding believers that they serve a King who is supreme over every force in the universe.

Application: This verse challenges us to recognize God’s sovereignty in every aspect of our lives. As Christians, we are called to submit to God’s authority in our personal lives, in our churches, and in the world. Our worship should acknowledge His kingship, and we should live with the awareness that God’s reign demands our reverence and obedience.

Verse 2: 

“Great is the Lord in Zion; he is exalted over all the nations.”

This verse emphasizes God’s greatness, particularly in Zion, the symbolic center of God’s rule and worship. While God reigns over all nations, Zion represents the place where God’s presence is most strongly felt and His rule most clearly acknowledged. Exaltation is a central theme in this verse, highlighting that God is above all other powers and authorities.

Cross-references:

• Psalm 47:8: “God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne.”
• Isaiah 2:2-4: The exaltation of the Lord in Zion and His rule over the nations.

Doctrinal Insight: God’s greatness and exaltation are not just theological abstractions but are demonstrated in His actual rule over creation. This verse emphasizes that God’s greatness is particularly manifest in the place where He is worshiped—Zion. It reminds us that worship should be a response to God’s majesty and greatness.

Application: This verse calls us to exalt God in our worship, not just as a theological concept but as the reigning Lord of our lives. As believers, we should regularly acknowledge and celebrate God’s greatness, particularly through worship, prayer, and reflection on His supremacy over all things.

Verse 3: 

“Let them praise your great and awesome name—he is holy.”

This verse directs the people of God to praise His name, which is described as “great” and “awesome,” both attributes that highlight God’s supreme worth. The phrase “he is holy” serves as the climax of the verse, stressing the moral purity and separateness of God from all other beings. God’s holiness is the foundation of His worthiness to be praised.

Cross-references:

• Isaiah 6:3: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”
• Revelation 4:8: The holiness of God is declared by the four living creatures in heaven.

Doctrinal Insight: The holiness of God is central to understanding His nature. Holiness is not merely a characteristic but the very essence of who God is. His greatness and awe-inspiring nature are inseparable from His moral purity. In evangelical theology, God’s holiness calls His people to live in reverence and purity as a reflection of His nature.

Application: Christians should respond to the holiness of God with awe and reverence. The call to praise God’s holy name should inspire us to live lives that reflect His holiness, striving for purity and separation from sin in our daily walk.

Verse 4: 

“The King is mighty, he loves justice— you have established equity; in Jacob you have done what is just and right.”

This verse emphasizes God’s just rule. God is not a king who rules arbitrarily or capriciously but is a King who loves justice and establishes it. His reign is marked by equity—fairness and impartiality. The phrase “in Jacob you have done what is just and right” likely refers to God’s actions toward Israel, particularly His covenant faithfulness and His actions to establish justice within the nation.

Cross-references:

• Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.”
• Isaiah 9:7: “Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness.”

Doctrinal Insight: God’s justice is a vital doctrine in evangelical theology. His justice ensures that the world is governed according to His righteous standards, and His kingdom will be established on the basis of justice. This highlights that God’s reign is not just in power but is morally right and just.

Application: As Christians, we are called to reflect God’s justice in our own lives, whether in our personal relationships, in our dealings with others, or in our society. We must seek fairness, advocate for the oppressed, and stand up for righteousness, recognizing that God delights in justice.

Verse 5: 

“Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his footstool; he is holy.”

This verse calls for the worship of God in His sanctuary. The reference to God’s “footstool” speaks to the humility and reverence that should accompany worship. To worship at God’s footstool is to acknowledge His supreme authority and our position of submission before Him.

Cross-references:

• Psalm 132:7: “Let us go to his dwelling place, let us worship at his footstool.”
• Hebrews 10:19-22: A call to approach God with reverence and awe in light of Christ’s work.

Doctrinal Insight: The imagery of God’s footstool highlights His majesty and sovereignty. In evangelical theology, the call to worship at God’s footstool is an invitation to humble ourselves before the greatness of God, acknowledging His lordship and holiness.

Application: Worship should never be approached casually or flippantly. As we approach God in worship, we are to recognize His holiness and majesty. Our worship should be characterized by reverence and submission to His supreme authority.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Psalm 99 emphasizes the majesty, holiness, and justice of God, qualities that are essential to understanding Jesus Christ in the broader narrative of Scripture. The chapter highlights God’s rule and the necessity of recognizing His sovereignty and holiness—truths that are ultimately revealed in their fullness through Jesus Christ. Jesus, as the embodiment of God’s reign on earth, reflects the attributes of God described in this psalm. The holiness of God is most clearly seen in the person and work of Jesus, who lived a sinless life, died for humanity’s sins, and was raised from the dead, all while embodying perfect justice, righteousness, and truth.

In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the King who reigns eternally, the one who was and is seated at the right hand of God the Father (Matthew 28:18, Revelation 19:16). Psalm 99’s portrayal of God’s sovereignty and justice is echoed in Jesus’ teachings on the Kingdom of God. Christ is not only the King of Israel but the King of all creation, and His reign is one of justice, righteousness, and holiness.

Psalm 99 also invites a deeper understanding of Christ’s redemptive work. The call for worship at God’s footstool emphasizes humility, acknowledging God’s sovereignty. Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross, becoming the ultimate sacrifice for sin. His work on the cross not only satisfies God’s justice but also offers the grace that allows humanity to approach the holy God in worship. As Christians, we are invited to worship Christ as the Lamb of God, who has made a way for us to stand in God’s presence through His sacrifice.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Father

Psalm 99 provides a clear picture of God’s holiness, justice, and sovereignty, all of which are also fully revealed in God the Father. The psalm begins with a declaration of God’s reign, which reminds us of God’s authority and rule, a theme found throughout the Scriptures and emphasized in the teachings of Jesus (Matthew 6:10). God the Father is sovereign, and the psalm calls the earth and the nations to recognize His supreme authority. This authority is not distant or impersonal but is relationally manifest in His covenant with His people, Israel, and ultimately through the relationship He offers through Christ.

The Father’s justice is central to this psalm, and this is fully realized in the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Christ’s death, the Father’s justice is satisfied, as the wrath of God against sin is poured out on Jesus, and humanity is offered forgiveness and reconciliation. God the Father’s holiness, justice, and mercy are all interconnected and are seen most clearly through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The call to worship at His footstool in Psalm 99 points to the humility required in our approach to God, recognizing His majesty, which Jesus reveals in both His first coming and His final return.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Holy Spirit

Psalm 99 calls God’s people to worship and reverence, a call that is empowered and made possible through the Holy Spirit. While the psalm speaks about God’s sovereign rule and holiness, it is the Spirit who enables believers to recognize, respond to, and live out that reality. The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in illuminating the holiness of God, convicting hearts of sin, and empowering believers to live lives of obedience to God’s justice.

The Spirit enables the church to reflect God’s holiness and justice in the world. In the New Testament, the Spirit is referred to as the one who sanctifies believers, making them holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). In a similar way, the call for holiness in Psalm 99, as expressed in worship at God’s footstool, is made possible through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, who helps believers live out the holiness that God requires.

Moreover, the Spirit continually points believers to the truth of God’s kingdom, bringing the reign of Christ into the hearts of those who believe. In John 14:17, Jesus describes the Spirit as “the Spirit of truth,” who will be with us and will dwell in us. This echoes Psalm 99’s call to acknowledge God’s greatness and worship Him in spirit and truth. The Spirit also guides the church in bringing God’s justice and righteousness to the world, just as Christ did during His ministry.

Connection to God’s Love

Psalm 99 highlights the holiness, majesty, and justice of God—qualities that are at the core of His love for humanity. While the psalm depicts God as a righteous and just king, He also invites His people into relationship through reverent worship. This is a crucial aspect of God’s love: His desire for His people to know Him and respond to His holiness with humility and praise.

The psalm’s call to recognize God’s sovereignty and worship at His footstool ultimately points to the fact that God’s love is a love that purifies, redeems, and restores. God’s justice ensures that sin is not ignored, but His love is displayed in the provision of a way for humanity to be reconciled to Him. Through Christ’s sacrifice, believers are not only forgiven but are made holy, able to enter God’s presence and experience His love in a way that is both intimate and awe-inspiring.

This is where the connection to God’s love becomes clear in the broader redemptive story. God’s justice, holiness, and love are perfectly harmonized in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The sacrificial death of Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity—love that is just and merciful. In Christ, we experience the fullness of God’s love, as His perfect sacrifice allows us to be brought near to a holy God. This act of redemption not only restores the relationship between humanity and God but also empowers believers to live out God’s love in the world. The call to worship and adore God in Psalm 99 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who has made a way for all who believe to enjoy God’s love and grace forever.

Sermon Outline and Flow:

Title: Worshiping the Sovereign King: A Call to Reverence and Obedience

Introduction:

• Begin with a reflection on the state of the world—how often do we forget the sovereignty of God in the midst of personal struggles, societal unrest, or our daily routines?
• Introduce Psalm 99 as a song of praise, calling the people of God to acknowledge His holiness, justice, and sovereignty. Emphasize that true worship is not just about celebrating God’s goodness, but also acknowledging His righteousness and authority in our lives.
• Illustrate the importance of worshiping God as both King and Judge, and why this chapter is especially relevant today.

I. The Sovereignty of God (Psalm 99:1-3)

• Main Point: God reigns as the sovereign King over all creation, and He is worthy of our worship.
• Explanation: Verse 1 declares, “The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice.” This speaks of God’s rule over the earth and all its people. God’s sovereignty is not just in the heavens but also over the nations and every individual.
• Illustration: Just as a king oversees and governs his kingdom, ensuring law and order, so does God reign over all creation. Imagine a ruler who enforces justice for the good of the people; this is what God does in the cosmos, and we are invited to worship Him as the rightful King.
• Application: How do we acknowledge God’s rule in our daily lives? Worship should go beyond Sunday services and be reflected in how we live, how we treat others, and how we acknowledge God’s authority in all our decisions.

II. The Holiness of God (Psalm 99:4-5)

• Main Point: God is holy and just, and He demands reverent worship.
• Explanation: Verses 4-5 describe God’s justice and holiness: “The King is mighty, He loves justice—you have established equity; in Jacob you have done what is just and right.” God’s holiness is not just moral purity; it’s the foundation of His justice and fairness. His rule brings justice to the world.
• Illustration: The holiness of God is like a blazing fire—consuming, purifying, and powerful. Just as fire refines metal, God’s holiness refines and purifies our hearts.
• Application: As we approach God in worship, do we acknowledge His holiness? Are we aware that our worship must reflect reverence and awe before a holy God? Holiness is not just an attribute of God but a call for us to be holy as He is holy.

III. The Justice of God (Psalm 99:6-9)

• Main Point: God’s justice is demonstrated in His dealings with His people, and we are called to respond in obedience.
• Explanation: Verses 6-9 recount the examples of how God acted in justice in the past, specifically referring to Moses, Aaron, and Samuel who interceded for the people. These leaders recognized God’s justice and sought His mercy on behalf of the people.
• Illustration: In today’s world, we often see injustice and long for things to be made right. We seek justice in our society through legal systems and advocacy. But God’s justice is perfect, and it is always right. As believers, we have the assurance that God will right every wrong and establish justice in His perfect timing.
• Application: How do we live in light of God’s justice? We must understand that God is sovereign and just in all His ways, and we are called to reflect His justice in how we live. We should be advocates for justice in our world, showing mercy and truth, as God does with us.

Conclusion: The Call to Worship and Obey

• Main Point: True worship involves recognizing God as the sovereign King, acknowledging His holiness and justice, and responding in obedience.
• Explanation: Worship is not just an emotional response; it is a deliberate act of acknowledging God’s greatness and aligning our lives with His will.
• Illustration: Consider the example of a person who stands before a judge in a courtroom. They respect the authority and decisions of the judge because they recognize the judge’s role and righteousness. In the same way, we stand before God in worship, acknowledging His holiness, justice, and sovereignty.
• Application: We are called to worship with reverence, obedience, and humility. When we understand God’s greatness, we cannot help but respond in awe and submit to His rule in our lives. We are called to live lives of worship, reflecting the sovereignty, holiness, and justice of God in all we do.
• Call to Action: Challenge the congregation to examine their own lives: Are we living in obedience to the sovereign, holy, and just God we worship? How can we better reflect His justice in our communities? Let us commit to worshiping God in spirit and truth, acknowledging His reign, His holiness, and His justice in every area of our lives.

Illustrations and Examples:

• Story of a Justice System: Imagine a courtroom where a judge has complete authority, and the defendant is guilty. However, instead of sentencing them to the appropriate punishment, the judge extends mercy by offering a second chance. This is the dynamic we see in God’s justice—while He is just and must address sin, He also offers mercy through Jesus Christ, giving us the chance to repent and live.
• Holiness in Daily Life: A story of someone whose life changed after understanding God’s holiness can help illustrate the transformative power of recognizing God’s holiness. They may have lived in a way that disregarded God’s commands but after experiencing His holiness, their life was marked by an intentional pursuit of righteousness.

Application for Today’s Christian:

• Discipleship: True discipleship involves submitting to God’s sovereignty. Believers must continually align their lives with God’s Word and embrace the process of sanctification, growing in holiness and obedience.
• Stewardship: Understanding God’s sovereignty also calls us to steward our resources (time, money, talents) in a way that reflects His kingdom values. Worship is not just in song but in the way we manage all He has given us.
• Living Out Our Faith: Christians are called to reflect God’s justice and holiness in the world. This includes standing up for what is right, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. This is practical discipleship that goes beyond the church walls and transforms the world around us.

Reflection Questions

1. God’s Sovereignty in Your Life: How does recognizing God’s sovereignty impact the way you live your life? Are there areas in your life where you have not fully surrendered to God’s reign? How can you submit more fully to His rule?
2. Understanding Holiness: In what ways does the holiness of God challenge your behavior and attitudes? What are some practical steps you can take this week to live more intentionally in the light of God’s holiness?
3. Justice and Mercy: God’s justice and mercy are displayed in His dealings with His people. How do you balance these two aspects in your own life? How can you reflect both justice and mercy in your relationships with others, especially in situations of conflict or injustice?
4. Worship and Obedience: Psalm 99 calls us to worship God in reverence and obedience. What does it look like for you to worship God with both your heart and your actions? Are there areas where your obedience to God does not match the worship you offer Him?
5. Impact on the World: How does understanding God’s justice and holiness shape the way you engage with the world around you? Are there specific areas where God is calling you to advocate for justice, truth, and righteousness in your community?
6. Call to Action: Reflect on the call to worship and obey found in Psalm 99. What is God calling you to do as a result of hearing this message? How can you practically live out your worship of God by serving others and pursuing righteousness?