On the Psalms (fragments)
Section 6
On Psalm lxii. 6
Aliens (μετανάσται) properly so called are those who have been despoiled by some enemies or adversaries, and have then become wanderers; a thing which we indeed also endured formerly at the hand of the demons. But from the time that Christ took us up by faith in Him, we are no longer aliens from the true country—the Jerusalem which is above—nor have we to bear alienation in error from the truth.
Section 7
On Psalm lxviii. 18 . Of the Enlargement of the Church.
And the unbelieving, too, He sometimes draws by means of sickness and outward circumstances; yea, many also by means of visions have come to make their abode with Jesus.
Section 8
On Psalm lxxxix. 4 . Of the Gentiles.
And around us are the wise men of the Greeks mocking and jeering us, as those who believe without inquiry, and foolishly.
Section 9
On the Words in Psalm xcvi. 11 : “Let the Sea Roar (Be Moved), and the Fulness Thereof.”
By these words it is signified that the preaching of the Gospel will be spread abroad over the seas and the islands in the ocean, and among the people dwelling therein, who are here called “the fulness thereof.” And that word has been made good. For churches of Christ fill all the islands, and are being multiplied every day, and the teaching of the Word of salvation is gaining accessions.
Section 10
On Psalm cxix. 30–32
He who loves truth, and never utters a false word with his mouth, may say, “I have chosen the way of truth.” Moreover, he who always sets the judgments of God before his eyes, and remembers them in every action, will say, “Thy judgments have I not forgotten.” And how is our heart enlarged by trials and afflictions! For these pluck out the thorns of anxious thoughts within us, and enlarge the heart for the reception of the divine laws. For, says he, “in affliction Thou hast enlarged me.” Then do we walk in the way of God’s commandments, well prepared for it by the endurance of trials.
Section 11
On the Words in Psalm cxxvii. 7 : “On the Wrath of Mine Enemies.” Etc.
Hast thou seen that the power (of God) is most mighty on every side? For (says he) Thou wilt be able to save me when in the midst of troubles, and to keep them in check when they rage, and rave, and breathe fire.
Section 12
On the Words in Psalm cxxxix. 15 : “My Substance or (Bones) Was Not Hid from Thee, Which Thou Madest in Secret.”
It is said also by those who treat of the nature and generation of animals, that the change of the blood into bone is something invisible and intangible, although in the case of other parts, I mean the flesh and nerves, the mode of their formation may be seen. And the Scripture also, in Ecclesiastes, adduces this, saying, “As thou knowest not the bones in the womb of her that is with child, so thou shalt not know the works of God.” But from Thee was not hid even my substance, as it was originally in the lowest parts of the earth.