Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the immensity of God's righteousness, explaining that it is not limited to human standards but is infinite and perfect. He notes the importance of recognizing God's attributes in our worship and supplication, suggesting that His righteousness should lead us to deeper trust in His plans.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes explores the implications of God's deeds, pointing out that His works are beyond human comprehension. He stresses that acknowledging God’s works strengthens faith and underlines the importance of God’s protection, which inspires hope in His continued presence.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke comments on the rhetorical question posed in the verse, highlighting that it serves to elevate God's glory. He argues that the believer's acknowledgment of God's uniqueness in righteousness encourages a personal relationship, fostering a deeper sense of gratitude and reverence.

Cross-References and Related Verses

This verse connects powerfully with several other scriptures, establishing a thematic continuity throughout the Bible. Here are some key cross-references:

• Psalms 36:6 - "Your righteousness is like the great mountains; your judgments are like the great deep." This verse highlights the enormity and unsearchable nature of God's righteousness.
• Psalms 145:17 - "The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does." This verse reaffirms God's faithfulness and righteous character across all His dealings.
• Isaiah 45:21 - "Declare what is to be, present it—let them take counsel together. Who foretold this long ago? Who declared it from the distant past? Was it not I, the Lord? And there is no God apart from me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none but me." This speaks to God's unique position as the righteous one.
• Romans 3:25-26 - "God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished." This connects God's righteousness to the New Testament revelation in Christ.
• Revelation 15:4 - "Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed." This prophesies the universal acknowledgment of God’s righteousness.
• Psalms 119:142 - "Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true." This underlines the eternal nature of God’s righteousness.
• 2 Timothy 4:8 - "Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day." This confirms God's role as a righteous judge who rewards faithfulness.

Thematic Connections

The themes of righteousness and divine greatness found in Psalms 71:19 are woven throughout many biblical texts, creating a tapestry of inter-Biblical dialogue that enriches the understanding of Scripture.

• Righteousness: The concept of God’s righteousness appears in both the Old and New Testaments, revealing His just nature and moral perfection. It is essential in understanding salvation and divine judgment.
• Divine Greatness: God’s unmatched greatness is a recurring theme. As in Isaiah 40:12, "Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens?" This emphasizes His sovereign power and control.

Applying the Verse

Believers today can draw great comfort and inspiration from Psalms 71:19. Recognizing God's righteousness and greatness encourages a robust faith, bolstering hope during difficult times. It serves as a call to worship and trust in God’s mercy and justice in our lives and the world at large.

As we examine these cross-references and thematic connections, it's invaluable to employ tools for Bible cross-referencing such as a Bible concordance or a Bible cross-reference guide to deepen understanding. Exploring how these verses intersect enriches one’s study and appreciation of Scripture.