Lecture Notes: Psalm 2 Study

Introduction to Psalm 2

Psalms 2:1-12 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

• Context: A continuation of the Bible study in Psalms, following Psalm 1.
• Focus: Unlike Psalm 1 which focuses on an individual, Psalm 2 has a broader scope, focusing on nations.
• Type: A Messianic psalm and an end-times psalm.

Key Themes in Psalm 2

1. The Heathens’ Rebellion (Verses 1-3)

• Scope: Nations conspiring against the Lord and His anointed, Christ.
• Historical and Future Perspective: Reflects a continuous human history of rebellion.
• End-Time Prophecy: Predicts future global rebellion against Christ.
• Examples: References to historical empires and modern global aspirations for a one-world government.

2. The Lord’s Ridicule (Verses 4-5)

• Divine Response: God’s reaction to human rebellion is laughter, illustrating His sovereignty.
• Comparison with Wisdom: Proverbs 1 describes wisdom’s response to rejection.
• Consequence: God’s wrath will ultimately be revealed against rebellion, especially in end times.

3. The Son’s Reign (Verses 6-9)

• Messianic Prophecy: Jesus’ resurrection and future reign during the millennium.
• Jesus’ Glorified Body: Discusses the resurrection body of Christ.
• Millennial Reign: Jesus will rule with a rod of iron, establishing a just government.
• Comparison: Reflects Satan’s attempts to imitate God’s future reign through false governments.

4. The World’s Reconciliation (Verses 10-12)

• Advice to Nations: Submit to God’s authority.
• Advice to Individuals: “Kiss the Son”; a call for personal submission to Christ.
• Outcome: Blessing for those who trust in Him.

Key Verses and Cross-References

• Acts 4:25-26: Quotes Psalm 2, confirming David as the author.
• Acts 13:33: Indicates the resurrection as the fulfillment of “Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee.”
• Revelation 13: Discusses the end-times government and religion.

Conclusion

• Human History: A repeated theme of rebellion against divine authority.
• God’s Sovereignty: Despite human attempts, God remains in control.
• Call to Action: Individuals and nations are encouraged to submit to the authority of Christ and experience His blessings.

Chat …More detail on the first and second coming of Jesus?

The Bible describes two distinct comings of Jesus Christ:

**First Coming:** *

**Purpose:** To live a sinless life, die on the cross as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, and rise again, conquering death. This fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. * **Nature:** Jesus came humbly, as a servant, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53: “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and we hid, as it were, our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.” He was born in a manger, lived a relatively unknown life, and ultimately suffered a brutal death.

* **Results:** The first coming provided the opportunity for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. His death atoned for the sins of the world, and His resurrection provides the hope of eternal life.

**Second Coming:**

* **Purpose:** To establish His kingdom on earth and judge the living and the dead. This is often referred to as the “Parousia” in the New Testament. *

**Nature:** The second coming will be glorious and triumphant. Jesus will return in power and glory, with the armies of heaven, and the entire world will see Him. This is depicted in Revelation and other prophetic passages. It will mark the beginning of a literal, earthly kingdom that will last 1000 years (the Millennium). *

**Results:** The second coming will bring about the final judgment, the defeat of evil (Satan), the establishment of God’s perfect kingdom on earth, and the ultimate restoration of all things. Those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior will be glorified and reign with Him. Those who have rejected Him will face eternal judgment.

The earth will be renewed, and there will be no more death, sorrow, or pain. While the exact timing of the second coming is unknown (Matthew 24:36), the Bible offers many signs that indicate its proximity.

These signs include widespread lawlessness, global unrest, technological advancements, and the rise of a powerful, world-controlling figure (Antichrist). The overarching message is that believers should be prepared and watch for His return.