BIG IDEA:
THE REIGN OF A HOLY GOD MAKES THE RIGHTEOUS GLAD AND THE WICKED TREMBLE
I. (:1-6) THE REIGN OF A HOLY GOD HAS COSMIC IMPLICATIONS
The Simple Truth =”The Lord Reigns”
— looking forward especially to fulfillment in the Millennial Kingdom when that reign on earth will be evident
A. The Whole Earth Rejoices
“let the earth rejoice”
“let the many islands be glad”
B. The King on His Throne Is Awesome
1. Awesome in Mystery
“clouds and thick darkness surround Him “
2. Awesome in Holiness
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne”
3. Awesome in Judgment
“Fire goes before Him “
“and burns up His adversaries round about”
C. The Whole Earth Trembles
“His lightnings lit up the world”
“the earth saw and trembled”
“the mountains melted like wax at the presence of the Lord,
at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth”
D. All People Witness the Testimony of His Glorious Reign
II. (:7-9) THE REIGN OF A HOLY GOD DESERVES LOYAL WORSHIP
The Simple Call = “Worship God”
A. God’s Perfection Makes Idolatry a Disgrace
“Let all those be ashamed who serve graven images”
“who boast themselves of idols”
B. God’s People Delight in Worshiping the Righteous King
“Zion heard this and was glad”
“the daughters of Judah have rejoiced”
“because of thy judgments, O Lord”
C. God’s Position Is Unrivaled
“Thou art the Lord Most High over all the earth”
“Thou art exalted far above all gods”
III. (:10-12) THE REIGN OF A HOLY GOD INSPIRES HOLINESS AND JOY
A. Love for God Must Issue in Holy Living
“Hate evil, you who love the Lord”
B. Aside: God’s Love for Us Includes Preservation and Deliverance
“Who preserves the souls of His godly ones”
“He delivers them from the hand of the wicked”
C. Joy and Thanksgiving Should Overflow
“Light is sown like seed for the righteous”
“and gladness for the upright in heart “
“Be glad in the Lord, you righteous ones”
“And give thanks to His holy name”