Psalms 89:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 89:7
7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.
Chapter Context
Psalms 89 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, redemption, faith. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 89:7
7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him.
Analysis
God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints (אֵל נַעֲרָץ בְּסוֹד־קְדֹשִׁים רַבָּה)—Na'aratz (feared, held in awe) describes reverent dread before God's holiness within the sod (council, secret assembly) of qedoshim (holy ones). This may refer to the heavenly court or to Israel's worship assemblies. And to be had in reverence of all them that are about him (וְנוֹרָא עַל־כָּל־סְבִיבָיו)—Nora (awesome, dreadful) extends to all who surround His throne.
True worship balances intimacy with reverence. While God invites us near through covenant love (hesed), His holiness remains terrifying. Isaiah 6:1-5 captures this—seraphim cover themselves in God's presence, crying 'Holy, holy, holy.' Hebrews 12:28-29 commands we serve God 'with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire.' The modern church often loses this balance, emphasizing intimacy without the trembling awe due to infinite majesty.
Historical Context
The 'assembly of the saints' connects to Israel's covenant community gathered for worship at the tabernacle/temple. God's manifest presence (Shekinah glory) made these encounters both inviting and terrifying—the same God who dwelt among His people also consumed Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-2) for irreverent approach.
Reflection
- How can you cultivate both intimacy with God and appropriate fear/reverence in your prayer and worship?
- In what ways might contemporary worship have lost the element of reverent fear? How can it be recovered?
- How does Jesus as our High Priest enable bold approach (Hebrews 4:16) while maintaining God's awesome holiness?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H410 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Jeremiah 10:10
- Parallel theme: Psalms 47:2, Jeremiah 10:7, Acts 5:11