What Is Man That You Are Mindful of Him? (Psalm 8) | Matthew Henry

Deep Dive into Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged in One Volume - Psalm 8Matthew Henry’s commentary on Psalm 8 describes the text as a solemn meditation on the glory and greatness of God. The psalm opens and closes with the same acknowledgment of God’s transcendent name, offering proof that His name is excellent throughout the earth. Henry posits that God’s glory is most clearly demonstrated through His goodness to humanity, noting that God is to be glorified for making Himself known to us. The commentary suggests that the moon and stars are cited rather than the sun because the psalmist was likely meditating during a night walk, yet these heavenly bodies still sufficiently demonstrate the Creator's wisdom and power.A central theme in Henry's analysis is God's ability to ordain strength out of the mouths of babes and sucklings. He interprets this threefold: as God's care for helpless infants in nature, His use of weak humans in providence, and specifically in the kingdom of grace, where He used unlearned apostles to dismantle the devil’s kingdom. This ensures that the excellency of power is attributed to God rather than men.The commentary deeply explores the psalmist's wonder that God is mindful of man. Henry notes that while man is a sinful, miserable creature, God has crowned him with glory and honor, placing him only a little lower than the angels. This position grants humanity dominion over the works of God's hands, including sheep, oxen, and the fish of the sea.Finally, Henry asserts that this psalm applies most specifically to Jesus Christ. Referencing the New Testament, he explains that Christ is the Son of Man who was made lower than the angels for the suffering of death, only to be crowned with glory and honor. Consequently, while believers should thank God for dominion over creatures, they must ultimately submit to Christ as the Lord over all.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730