The LORD builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel.
God stirs us to praise Him for two reasons: His power and wisdom shown in governing all creation, and His special mercy to His chosen Church, restoring it when it falls, gathering it when scattered. The Psalm likely arose after Jerusalem's rebuilding, when the people saw God's hand return them from captivity.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 147:1-20
The Lord doth build up Jerusalem. God appears both ill the material and spiritual world as a Builder and Maker, and therein he is to be praised. His grace, wisdom, and power are all seen in the formation and establishment of the chosen seat of his worship; once a city with material walls, but now a church composed of spiritual stones.
Praise is our bounden duty and our highest pleasure, for it is good in itself and good for us; it answers why we were made. The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem from ruins and gathers the scattered exiles, proving Himself worthy of our most exalted song.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 147:1-11