“And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:”
The killing of famous kings extends the conquest account, emphasizing the decisiveness and comprehensiveness of God's judgment. Fame suggests reputation and seeming strength; yet even renowned military leaders fall before God's judgment. The doubling of great/famous kings creates emphasis on the divine power to overcome even the most formidable opposition. This verse demonstrates that human fame and power are irrelevant before God's determination to fulfill His purposes for His people.
Church Fathers on Psalms 136:18
1. “Give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures for ever” Psalm 135:1. This Psalm contains the praise of God, and all its verses finish in the same way. Wherefore although many things are related here in praise of God, yet His mercy is most commended; for without this plain commendation, he, whom the Holy Spirit used to utter this Psalm, would have no verse be ended. Although after the judgment, by which at the end of the world the quick and the dead must…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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