Verse Analysis

This verse captures the awe and reverence that is due to God because of His mighty works. The term "terrible" in this context refers not to fear in a negative sense, but to a profound respectful fear and admiration of God's power and majesty.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the duality of God's terrifying power and His benevolence. He interprets the verse as an acknowledgment of God's authority over nature and nations, suggesting that God's might compels acknowledgment even from His adversaries.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes highlights the idea of submission before God. He explains that the mention of enemies is a reminder that those who oppose God will ultimately recognize His supremacy. Barnes notes that acknowledging God’s power can lead to a transformation in the hearts of the resistant.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke interprets “terrible” as suggesting both a fear that leads to submission and a recognition of God’s sovereignty. He directs the reader to consider the historical contexts where God’s intervention led to the downfall of enemies, encouraging believers to trust in God’s ultimate control over all circumstances.

Connections with Other Scriptures

This verse provides rich opportunities for cross-referencing and exploring connections between Bible verses. Here are notable references that connect well with Psalms 66:3:

• Exodus 15:14-16 - The fear of God’s power leads other nations to tremble when witnessing His deliverance and might.
• Isaiah 45:23 - A prophecy that suggests all knees will bow to God, aligning with the theme of submission.
• Philippians 2:10-11 - This New Testament verse echoes the same idea that every knee shall bow to the name of Jesus, affirming God's authority.
• Romans 14:11 - Paul reiterates the universal acknowledgment of God’s lordship, supporting the concept of submission to divine authority.
• Matthew 28:18 - Jesus declares His authority over heaven and earth, a direct connection to the power described in Psalms 66:3.
• Revelation 5:13 - A vision of all creation praising God acknowledges His greatness and power.
• 1 Chronicles 16:25 - Affirming God's greatness and the need for all nations to recognize His might.
• Psalm 145:6-7 - This psalm describes the might of God’s actions, leading to a portrayal of His power that inspires worship and awe.
• Jeremiah 10:6-7 - The uniqueness of God as the one deserving fear and reverence above all, connects well to the themes in Psalms 66.
• Matthew 12:30 - Identifies the opposition to God, indicating that every battle against Him ultimately results in recognition of His omnipotence.

Thematic Interpretation

The verse encompasses key themes of:

• Awe of God’s Power: The psychological impact of recognizing God’s might leads humans to submit and acknowledge His sovereignty.
• Submission and Obedience: It portrays the necessity of aligning oneself with God’s will as a response to His greatness.
• Historical Contexts of Deliverance: References to biblical history showcase how God’s mighty acts have compelled entire nations to confront their stance towards Him.
• Inter-Biblical Links: This verse creates a dialogue across the Scriptures, bridging Old Testament themes with New Testament revelations regarding God’s authority.

Conclusion

Psalms 66:3 is not merely a statement about God's majesty; rather, it serves as a profound invitation to reflect on the nature of God's power and the rightful response of reverence and submission. Through the combined insights from commentaries and connections with other scriptures, one can derive a holistic understanding of this verse and its implications for faith and worship.