DrIBEX Ideas

There are psalms that portray Israel’s ideal ruler as a King. Sometimes the language about this King goes beyond the power and influence of even a David or Solomon. These are known as the Messianic Psalms, of which the first is here in Psalm Two. These psalms speak about the future “anointed one” (Ps. 2:2) and often portray Him as Ruler and Judge. On the other hand, some of them portray him as a righteous sufferer (Ps. 22; 69). Here he is portrayed as a King who is also God’s Son (Ps. 2:7, 12). Whether as Sovereign or as Sufferer, Jesus told us that He is in the Psalms (Luke 24:44).

Read the words of Ps. 2:1-12:

God the Father, along with His Son, is described as performing four actions in this Psalm:

The Lord hears the scoffers (vv. 1–3). God hears the ravings of the nations and the plots of their rulers. What is it that they really want? Freedom from God! But the way to real freedom is by submission, not by rebellion. To throw off God’s will is to invite bondage and destruction.

The Lord laughs at the scoffers (v. 4). Man does not worry God by all his noise and threats (the New Atheists?). He is on His throne and has everything in control. When the noise from the world frightens you, turn to the Lord and let Him take over. See how the early church did just this by referring to this Psalm (Acts 4:23–31).

The Lord speaks to His Son (vv. 5–9). God the Father announces that His King now sits enthroned in the Heavenly Zion where the raving nations can’t touch Him. God the Son announces that the nations will be His, so their rebellion is futile (v. 7–9). Psalm 2:7 is not a prayer request for missions; it is a statement of judgment on those who reject the Son (Rev. 19:15). David here affirms his faith in the promise of the Davidic Covenant (2 Sam. 7:16).

The Lord commands us to trust His Son (vv. 10–12). God the Spirit invites all rebels to submit to the Son and be blessed instead of destroyed (v. 10–12). To kiss the Son means to do homage to Him as Sovereign Lord. (The rare word for “son” - bar - is also used in Pr. 31:2). All those who trust Him are safe and blessed. I call Psalm 2:12 the John 3:16 of the OT.

Above the noise of the nations and their rantings, listen for the firm and assuring voice of the Living God. As was earlier promised in Psalm 1, you will be blessed if you put your trust in His Son (Ps. 1:1, 2:12)

O Lord, speak Your mighty word to the nations that they may turn back from the ways of destruction, and find peace and happiness through their reverence for You and Your Son. AMEN.

*From Awake O Harp, to be published in February.*