Psalm 2 functioned in Israel as an enthronement psalm depicting the installation of a Davidic successor. It would have been read by the newly anointed king whom God declared “my son” as a part of the sacramental drama of enthronement. It issues a warning to the princes of the earth that rebellion against God’s universal rule as mediated through his chosen one is utter foolishness because God has given him the authority and ability to levy devastating judgment. The proper response envisioned in the psalm requires that the princes of the earth to serve, rejoice, and pay homage (i.e., kiss) to the Lord. The newly enthroned king functioned not only as God’s mediatorial judge (2:8, 9), but also as God’s compassionate emissary (2:10-12).
Our lives are wrapped up in this sacramental drama. Jesus is enthroned and is being enthroned not just as a mediatorial Davidic ruler but as the Creator-King himself. His compassionate message to the nations extends throughout the earth and the ages by means of his holy body, the Church. Thus, we are commissioned (the mission of God) to spread this warning to the nations that rebellion against Jesus’ universal rule will result in utter destruction. We proclaim not only the message of impending judgment but also the message of compassion that the nations can find blessing and happiness if they serve, worship, and trust the King.
Happy are all those who seek refuge in the King!
BD
Our lives are wrapped up in this sacramental drama. Jesus is enthroned and is being enthroned not just as a mediatorial Davidic ruler but as the Creator-King himself. His compassionate message to the nations extends throughout the earth and the ages by means of his holy body, the Church. Thus, we are commissioned (the mission of God) to spread this warning to the nations that rebellion against Jesus’ universal rule will result in utter destruction. We proclaim not only the message of impending judgment but also the message of compassion that the nations can find blessing and happiness if they serve, worship, and trust the King.
Happy are all those who seek refuge in the King!
BD