Delight & Devastation At The Lord’s Return
Brethren, the coming kingdom of the Messiah is an important theme of Scripture that runs from the Old Testament to the New. In Psalm 97 we get a glimpse into this future kingdom of our Lord.
The psalm begins with the retribution of the King (97:1-6). The psalmist calls for the entire world to rejoice and acknowledge the sovereignty of the Messiah (97:1). Thick dark clouds surround the Lord as He sends out His fiery wrath upon the wicked of the world in righteous judgement (97:2-3). Powerful lightning will light up the sky; and the wicked will tremble with fear at the presence of the Lord (97:4-5). The heavens will reveal His mighty power and people will see God’s glory displayed in awesome wonder (97:6).
The Lord will also eradicate the false worship of all idols at His rule (97:7-9). Those who worship idols will be put to shame because of the mighty judgments of God (97:7-8). Behind all idol worship is the work of demons, and all of these spiritual forces will bow to the Lord Most High (1 Cor 10:20;Ps 97:7,9). God’s people will rejoice at that time and be glad at the eradication of all idolatry (97:8).
In Psalm 97:10-12 the psalmist encourages the faithful who currently live in a world of darkness. He calls all believers who long for the Lord’s kingdom to remain loyal to Him. All those who love the Lord are called to forsake the evil of this world (97:10). Brethren, live your life knowing that great joy awaits you the future (97:11). Rejoice in the present as you acknowledge the greatness of your God and Saviour Jesus Christ, and remember all that He has done for you (97:12).