Commentaries
Matthew Henry Concise
Puritan pastoral commentary (1710). Warm, devotional, and strong on practical application. Covers every chapter. Lighter on original languages.
Wesley's Notes
Methodist verse notes (1754). Clear and concise; useful for a quick plain reading of the text. Not every verse has a note.
Poole's Annotations
Nonconformist verse annotations (1685). Concise and text-focused, with strong attention to the Hebrew and Greek text. Praised by Spurgeon for its balance of brevity and depth.
Jamieson, Fausset and Brown
Evangelical critical commentary (1871). Strong on exegesis, word study, and cross-references. Dense and technical; best for readers who want scholarly depth.
Gill's Exposition
Reformed Baptist exposition (1746). Exhaustive treatment of Hebrew, Greek, and Rabbinic sources. Covers every verse with great depth; entries can be long.
Chapter Outline
vv. 1-10
Those who hate the worshippers of God, often put on the appearance of piety, that they may the easier hurt them. As death often meets men where they least expect it, we should continually search whether we are in such a state and frame of mind, as we would wish to be found in when called to appear before our Judge. Sometimes the ransom of a man's life is his riches. But those who think to bribe death, saying, Slay us not, for we have treasures in the field, will find themselves wretchedly deceived. This melancholy history warns us, never to be secure in this world. We never can be sure of peace on this side heaven.
vv. 11-18
The success of villany must be short, and none can prosper who harden their hearts against God. And those justly lose comfort in real fears, who excuse themselves in sin by pretended fears. The removal of a prudent and peaceable ruler, and the succession of another who is rash and ambitious, affects the welfare of many. Only those are happy and steady who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.