An Analysis Of the Second Psalm Of King David

by Joel Hendon⁽¹⁷¹⁾ Red Star

The second psalm, as assembled, is much different than the first one. We will approach this particular psalm as it is interpreted in the New American Standard Version. It would be well, however, for the interested student to read the King James Version since the psalm itself has a double meaning. One, it is bemoaning the fact that David is being pursued and his enemies long for his death. However, with a more modern translation, it also shows prophetically without doubt, the maltreatment and desire to slaughter of the Lord Jesus Christ which was to occur over 1,000 years later.

It would be wonderful if space would permit that we took each verse and compared the KJV rendering with the NAS, but alas, it would take far too much space for one article, so let me urge each student to do that on his own and see if it does not bring out the dual descriptions of David himself as well as the Lord Jesus.

This psalm, like the poetry in Psalm 1, is in three verse groups. Here is the first group:

1. Why are the nations in an uproar and the peoples devising a vain thing?

2. The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers take counsel together against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying,

3. "Let us tear their fetters apart and cast away their cords from us!" (Psalm 2:1-3 NAS)

Even though these verses actually fit in the manner of things pertaining to David. He was the Lord’s anointed and numerous kings plotted against him. But even more fitting is the plight of Jesus on the earth. He was not only the Son of God, but the anointed of God also and the nations sought him. A verse of confirmation in this respect is found in the New Testament written by Luke::

"For truly in this city there were gathered together against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predestined to occur. "And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence, while You extend Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders take place through the name of Your holy servant Jesus." And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:27-31 NAS)

In verses 4 through 6, David poetically describes the scorn of God towards those who dare challenge Him:

4. He that sitteth in the heavens will laugh: The Lord will have them in derision.

5. Then will he speak unto them in his wrath, And vex them in his sore displeasure:

6. Yet I have set my king Upon my holy hill of Zion.

(Psalm 2:4-6 ASV)

Verses 7 through 9 deals with the Sonship of Jesus and God’s acknowledgement of him. These verses cannot be denied that they are prophetic.

7. I will tell of the decree: Jehovah said unto me, Thou art my son; This day have I begotten thee.

8. Ask of me, and I will give [thee] the nations for thine inheritance, And the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.

9. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; Thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

(Psalm 2:7-9 ASV)

And the final 3 verses, numbers 10, 11, 12 , David concludes the psalm as he does the first psalm and many others, with a warning from God to those who would reject His Son.

10. Now therefore be wise, O ye kings: Be instructed, ye judges of the earth.

11. Serve Jehovah with fear, And rejoice with trembling.

12. Kiss the son, lest he be angry, and ye perish in the way, For his wrath will soon be kindled. Blessed are all they that take refuge in him. (Psalm 2:11-12 ASV)

Article submitted Tuesday, June 14, 2011 & read 47 times.

Please log in to leave your comments.

» left by Christofer French from Denver (318 days 10 hours ago.)

Thorough analysis and well drafted. The import of your article is self evident. You truly have a tremendous grasp of these issues.

» left by Joel Hendon⁽¹⁷¹⁾ (318 days 7 hours ago.)

Thank you Christopher, I always appreciate your comments.

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