As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah.
This psalm celebrates Jerusalem's deliverance when many kings conspired against it. The prophet gives thanks and insists that God's sanctuary on Mount Zion was erected precisely so His power would be manifestly shown for His people's salvation. The historical setting is most likely the siege under Ahaz, or the invasions in the days of Jehoshaphat and Asa, when the city was brought to utter despair yet suddenly delivered.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 48:1-14
What our fathers heard in promise, we behold fulfilled before us, the records of Zion proved true by present fact. The Lord bears two names here: Lord of Hosts speaks His power and sovereignty; our God speaks His covenant kindness toward us. No wonder He deals with us after the precedent of His lovingkindness and faithfulness. What God establishes stands forever; what kings establish crumbles with time.
AI summary
Compare what God has spoken with what He has done, and faith is confirmed: as we have heard, so have we seen. God's latter works for His people echo His former ones. What we have heard promised in Scripture we now see accomplished in providence. From this we may conclude that God will establish His church forever, not in Jerusalem, long since dust, but in the gospel church, which shall endure.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 48:8-14