God rules over a universe of creatures and created things, marshaled in order, or arranged as armies for battle. His reign is universal. The inhabitants of the universe, of all ranks and orders, acknowledge His rule. “Hosts” is used at times of the heavenly bodies (see Gen. 2:1; Deut. 17:3), at times of the angels (Joshua 5:14; Ps. 103:21; Ps. 148:2). At the first response of the bearers of the ark (Ps. 24:8), the gates appear to have remained closed before the waiting procession. At this second response, “The Lord of hosts,” instead of “The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle,” appears to be a sort of glorious password that unlocks the city. The ritualistic effect is heightened. See also 1 Sam. 17:45; 2 Sam. 6:2; Isa. 1:9.
The psalm closes in perfect accord with the opening thought: God alone is ruler of the universe; He alone should be universally recognized. The ceremony of installing the ark in the hill of the Lord provides a fitting occasion for this proclamation.