Psalms Chapter 87 A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song.
1 His foundation is in the holy mountains.
2 The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
3 Glorious things are spoken about you, city of God. Selah.
4 I will record Rahab and Babylon amongst those who acknowledge me. Behold, Philistia, Tyre, and also Ethiopia: "This one was born there."
5 Yes, of Zion it will be said, "This one and that one was born in her;" the Most High himself will establish her.
6 The LORD will count, when he writes up the peoples, "This one was born there." Selah.
7 Those who sing as well as those who dance say, "All my springs are in you."
Footnotes
- Verse 4 (Rahab)
- Rahab is a reference to Egypt.
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Psalms Chapter 87 A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song. Guide
This is a prophecy. The singer is looking on. The order of the earthly realisation of the Kingdom of God is seen as established. First, the city is contemplated at the centre of everything, with Jehovah as its God. Then the peoples of the earth are seen in their true relation to that city.
It is a most remarkable utterance. Though brief, it is as comprehensive and full of beauty as any of the inspired predictions. Without specific statement, the sovereignty of God is taken for granted. There is no argument given for this. It is a fact beyond dispute and needing no proof. Thus God has the city of His chosen people as the centre and foundation of His administration. His love is set upon the city, and her fame is wide-spread; glorious things are spoken of her. The outcome is seen in the effect produced upon the surrounding peoples. Her ancient enemies are finally to be born, that is realise their true life, through this governing city of God.
This is the highest function of the chosen people according to the purpose of God. Under His government they are to bring the other nations to Him, so that they also shall find their highest in His Kingdom. This is not a story of Israel conquering by force of arms, but of that higher victory not yet won, when by manifestation and administration of the Divine government, the peoples shall dance and sing in the finding of their fountains and fullness in God.
From "An Exposition of the Whole Bible" by G. Campbell Morgan.
Psalms Chapter 87 Commentary
Chapter Outline
- The glory of the church. -- (1-3)
- It is filled with the Divine blessing. -- (4-7)
Verses 1-3
Christ himself is the Foundation of the church, which God has laid. Holiness is the strength and firmness of the church. Let us not be ashamed of the church of Christ in its meanest condition, nor of those that belong to it, since such glorious things are spoken of it. Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, even Jesus Christ. The glorious things spoken of Zion by the Spirit, were all typical of Christ, and his work and offices; of the gospel church, its privileges and members; of heaven, its glory and perfect happiness.
Verses 4-7
The church of Christ is more glorious and excellent than the nations of the earth. In the records of heaven, the meanest of those who are born again stand registered. When God renders to every man according to his works, he shall observe who enjoyed the privileges of his sanctuary. To them much was given, and of them much will be required. Let those that dwell in Zion, mark this, and live up to their profession. Zion's songs shall be sung with joy and triumph. The springs of the joy of a carnal worldling are in wealth and pleasure; but of a gracious soul, in the word of God and prayer. All grace and consolation are derived from Christ, through his ordinances, to the souls of believers.
From the "Concise Commentary on the Bible" by Matthew Henry.