Psalms — Bible Lesson 5* *Meditation Passage: Psalm 2* *Psalm 2 — “The Royal Psalm”*
*Just for your thoughts.*
Psalms—Bible Lesson 5*
Meditation Passage: Psalm 2*
Psalm 2—"The Royal Psalm”*
Psalm 2 is commonly referred to by Bible scholars today as the “Royal Psalm.”*
There is hardly another psalm that is referred to as many times in the New Testament as Psalm 2. The words or ideas of this psalm are referred to in approximately 18 places in the New Testament.
Psalm 2 is also known as a “Messianic Psalm” because of its clear reference to the Messiah and His kingship.
It is important to understand that “Royal Psalm” is not an official title given in Scripture. It is a term used by biblical scholars to describe a particular literary type of psalm, especially psalms dealing with the king, kingship, enthronement, and the rule of God’s anointed king.
Why is Psalm 2 called a “Royal Psalm”?
The themes of the king, anointing, the throne, kingship, opposition, and authority over the nations are central to this psalm.
These themes can be clearly seen in Psalm 2:2, 6–8, and 10–12.
In this world, we can see governments and rulers exercising authority. At times, we see governments and political authorities standing against God and the Gospel. Sometimes, it may even appear that forces are attempting to prevent the purposes and rule of God from being established in this world.
When we see these things, believers can easily become discouraged.
But Psalm 2 reminds us of a great truth: above the governments and authorities that are visible to our eyes, there is the invisible rule and sovereign authority of God.
Human rulers may boast about their authority, but the throne of God cannot be shaken.
That is why the psalmist gives this warning:
“Be wise now therefore, O ye kings:
be instructed, ye judges of the earth.”
— Psalm 2:10
He continues:
“Serve the LORD with fear,
and rejoice with trembling.”
— Psalm 2:11
There is another important truth that we must remember. Satan does not possess independent or unlimited authority. Whatever authority he exercises is subject to the sovereignty of God and operates within the limits permitted by God.
Therefore, whatever may happen in our nation, the knowledge that there is a divine government above the governments of this world—one that remains sovereign over them—gives us great faith and comfort.
In this temporary, earthly life, the governments of this world do not possess the ultimate authority over us. Our ultimate King is God.
The invisible rule of God is present over heaven and earth. As we look forward to receiving the unshakable Kingdom, we do not need to live in fear because of the changing governments that surround us today.
God has appointed boundaries and seasons for the nations of the earth. Human governments are not outside the sovereign authority of God.
Even the activities of Satan cannot go beyond the sovereignty of God or exercise ultimate authority over us.
This is the great lesson Psalm 2 teaches us:
Governments may change. Rulers may change. Circumstances may change. But the throne of God cannot be shaken. The reign of Christ, God’s Anointed King, will endure forever. Therefore, we should not live in fear, but trust in God.
In the Lord’s work,