Psalm 2: The Hope of The Coming King

By: Edward Cortez

 

Psalm 2 is one of those Messianic psalms that points to the future arrival of an eternal King – Christ the Lord. He is described as the “One enthroned in heaven (verse 4)” who is the absolute, sovereign ruler of the universe with whom no nation, ruler, or power can ever match or compare with. Jesus’ fi rst coming was the incarnation when He came as a human being to suffer and die for the sins of mankind. He is coming again a second time as the triumphant and reigning King.

“Why do the nations conspire, and the peoples plot in vain? (verse 1),” begins the psalmist. There are no political or social institutions ever founded by man that can fully solve humanity’s problems. The League of Nations rose from the ashes of World War I. It was replaced by the United Nations with the same intent of promoting world peace. But world peace proves to be as elusive as ever. Ukraine continues to suffer the brunt of a devastating war unleashed by Russia. The Middle East has never seen any rest from centuries of confl icts. Myanmar is again spiraling out of control due to another civil war.

Throughout history there is a desperate call for a new world order in which peace, prosperity, and the rule of law will prevail. But it will only come when a new King, a far greater Ruler than anyone in history, will begin to reign. David, the author of Psalm 2 and one of the greatest human kings of Israel himself saw this day – millenniums ahead of his time, “I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain (verse 6).”

While we await the coming of the King of kings and Lord of lords, today, right now, we can welcome Him into our hearts by faith. World peace may be beyond our reach in this life, but internal, personal peace with God through a relationship with His Son, Jesus, is possible. Then we can “serve the Lord with fear, (verse 11)” not out of intimidation and coercion but out of a sense of awe and wonder and humility to His awesome power, unfathomable wisdom, and perfect judgment.