Psalms
Summary
Psalm 2 is a royal and messianic psalm that depicts the nations' rebellion against God's appointed King. While the rulers of the earth plot to break their chains, the LORD "sits in the heavens and laughs" at their futility. He declares His decree: that He has set His King on Zion and has begotten Him as a Son. The psalm concludes with a solemn warning to the kings of the earth to serve the LORD with fear and to "kiss the Son," for blessed are all who take refuge in Him. It is a powerful affirmation of God's ultimate sovereignty over the world's powers.
Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth take their stand, and the rulers conspire together, against the LORD and against his Anointed One:
"Let us break their chains in pieces," they say, "and cast their ropes from us."
The One who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.
Then he rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying,
"I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill."
I will proclaim the decree of the LORD: He said to me, "You are my Son; today I have begotten you."
"Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, and the ends of the earth your possession."
"You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel."
Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you judges of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son [1], lest he be angry and you perish in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.