Reflections on Psalms 2

 Psalms 02(Contemporary English Version)

1. Why do the nations plot, and why do their people make useless plans?
2. The kings of this earth have all joined together to turn against the LORD and his chosen one.
3. They say, "Let's cut the ropes and set ourselves free!"
4. In heaven the LORD laughs as he sits on his throne, making fun of the nations.
5. The LORD becomes furious and threatens them. His anger terrifies them as he says,
6. "I've put my king on Zion, my sacred hill."
7. I will tell the promise that the LORD made to me: "You are my son, because today I have become your father.
8. Ask me for the nations, and every nation on earth will belong to you.
9. You will smash them with an iron rod and shatter them like dishes of clay."
10. Be smart, all you rulers, and pay close attention.
11. Serve and honor the LORD; be glad and tremble.
12. Show respect to his son because if you don't, the LORD might become furious and suddenly destroy you. But he blesses and protects everyone who runs to him.

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Though many make a futuristic application to this Psalm, giving it reference to Christ's reign in the millenium, it is more likely a royal psalm used by the Davidic kings in the Old Testament. In this context, every king anointed by a prophet was a "messiah," or anointed one. When David became king, his relationship to God was described as a Father-son relationship, taking on the meaning of a messianic title. As God's son, he inherited the kingdom from God, his father.

Given this context, this Psalm raises the question of why any nation would vainly plot against the king of Israel. As long as Israel's king was faithful to the Lord, it was futile for any nation to stand against Israel. It was equivalent to standing against the Lord. God, the One enthroned in heaven, laughed at such foolishness. Then His laughter turned to anger as He terrified them with His wrath.

Those who are followers of Christ can take some comfort in this Psalm as well, for in Christ God confirms us and has anointed us. (2 Corinthians 1:21) In Christ we become God's sons and receive God's hand of protection against those who are enemies of God and His people.