ARGUMENT

ARG. THOMAS. That we ought to sing of CHRIST with all our mind on spiritual trumpets. The Voice of the HOLY GHOST to the people. Concerning the HOLY GHOST. This Psalm relates to Pentecost, and the answer of CHRIST. Further, the Voice of the Apostles to the people. The Voice of CHRIST touching judgment to come. The Voice of the Apostles.

VEN. BEDE. The fifth of the Sabbath is the fifth day from the Sabbath, which is called Jove’s Day by the Gentiles, and by us the fifth week-day; wherefore GOD said: Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven; mystically denoting that there should be born persons of various merit from the waters of Baptism. The intention, then, of the title is of this sort; To the end, is to signify CHRIST the LORD; For the presses, the CHURCH tried by persecutors; Asaph, the congregation, the fifth of the Sabbath, Baptism. Whence we gather that the Psalm will speak of the regenerate congregation in the Church of the LORD. Hence too it is that Asaph is speaking historically to the Jews, but he is better understood spiritually by the Christian people.

In the first part of the Psalm Asaph speaketh to the faithful, that they may sound the praises of GOD on divers musical instruments for benefits many times received, Sing ye merrily to God our strength, &c. In the second part are the words of the LORD, threatening them against the worship of idols, that He alone may be adored Who is wont to repay: Hear, O My people. In the third part Asaph speaks again, rebuking unbelievers for being deceitful, though GOD’S gifts have been abundantly bestowed on them. The haters of the Lord should have been found liars, &c.

EUSEBIUS OF CÆSAREA. The calling of the Gentiles, and instruction touching the things which befell the former people.

S. ATHANASIUS. A Psalm of exhortation, and, to some extent, of command.