Verse Smart · Commentary comparison
What do the great Christian commentators say about Psalms 46:10? Below is a side-by-side look at how Matthew Henry, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, Albert Barnes, and John Wesley read this passage — where they agree, where they diverge.
Psalms 46:10 · WEB
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.”
Strong emphasis on the personal act of inner quietness and yielding.
Focus on God's absolute control and His inherent action, with human stillness as a response to that truth.
Summaries are AI-rendered overviews of public-domain commentaries (Henry, Calvin, Spurgeon, Barnes, Wesley). Always consult primary sources for study.
Late 17th - Early 18th Century
Henry emphasizes that humans should cease their striving and recognize God's supreme power and authority. He urges believers to be quiet, letting God work His plans, which will ultimately lead to His glory being recognized throughout the whole world.
“We must be still and know God is God, trusting His plans over our own.”
16th Century
Calvin explains this verse as a command for people to halt their frantic efforts and acknowledge God's sovereignty. He highlights that God's exaltation among nations and the earth will happen whether people recognize Him or not, but cessation from conflict allows for this divine truth to be known.
“God's control is absolute, and we must surrender our will to His recognized authority.”
19th Century
Spurgeon understood this as a call to quietness in the face of God's power, urging believers not to be anxious but to trust in God's ultimate triumph. He saw it as a promise that God will make Himself known and be honored universally, despite human opposition.
“In stillness, we find assurance of God's power and His ultimate victory.”
19th Century
Barnes interpreted 'Be still' as a call to cease from conflict and acknowledge God's divine intervention and power. He explained that God's ultimate vindication and supreme authority will be evident to all nations, making His name great on earth.
“Cessation from struggle leads to the recognition of God's sovereign power and glory.”
18th Century
Wesley saw this as an invitation to peace and trust in God's mighty power, especially during times of trial. He stressed that yielding to God's will and trusting His promises ensures His future exaltation amongst all peoples and lands.
“True peace comes from trusting in God's immense power and knowing He will be glorified.”