Introduction to Psalms 107-108
Book V
Psalm 107
Overall, Psalm 107 is considered one of Israel’s historical psalms, along with Psalm 106 and many of the royal psalms, among others. The overall outline of the historical psalms is to tell a story of a God who accomplishes “wonderful works”, although the Israelites, His chosen people, have proved faithless. In fact, acts of infidelity often seem to correspond to an eventual awe-inspiring work of mercy from the Lord. Although the exact timing of the writing of Psalm 107 is unsure, it was most likely written during a time of increased union among the Jewish people during the reign of King David (1010-970 BC). The psalm also includes several more specific themes which emphasize the general tone of praise and thanksgiving for the God of Israel.
The writer says, “Oh give thanks to the LORD! Let the redeemed say so. He brought them out of darkness. He stilled the storm. He raises up the needy. He breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron.”
City gates were normally made of wood, although here they were of bronze, the strongest gates then imaginable. Bars that secured city gates were usually constructed of wood but sometimes formed of bronze as well. “Can a man break iron…or bronze?” was a proverb of the time.
The writer says, “Oh give thanks to the LORD! Let the redeemed say so. He brought them out of darkness. He stilled the storm. He raises up the needy. He breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron.”
City gates were normally made of wood, although here they were of bronze, the strongest gates then imaginable. Bars that secured city gates were usually constructed of wood but sometimes formed of bronze as well. “Can a man break iron…or bronze?” was a proverb of the time.
Psalm 108
David says, “My heart is steadfast, O God. Your love is great above the heavens. God has spoken: ‘Judah is my scepter.’ Help us against the enemy!”
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