Psalms 1–2

Psalm 1 and Psalm 2 serve as an introduction to the entire Psalter, highlighting two complementary themes: the blessed life characterized by delighting in and meditating on God's law (Psalm 1) and the sovereignty of God's anointed King, the Messiah, who will rule righteously (Psalm 2).

Psalm 1 describes the blessed person who avoids evil influences and instead delights deeply in the law of the Lord, meditating on it "day and night." The Hebrew word for "delight" implies a strong, favorable inclination or “bending” toward God's Word. This meditation is not a passive or emptying of the mind but an active, continual reflection on God’s character, commands, promises, and moral instruction. Such a person is stable and fruitful spiritually, like a tree firmly planted by water, in contrast to the wicked who are unstable and fleeting like chaff blown by the wind.

Psalm 2 shifts focus to God's sovereignty and messianic promise. It depicts God's anointed king, called His "Son," who will subdue the nations and reign in righteousness. The enemies' rebellion against God ultimately fails, as God’s king is established firmly. This Psalm anticipates Jesus Christ as the ultimate Messiah, the fulfillment of God’s covenantal promises. Thus, Psalms 1 and 2 together frame the Psalter's overall message: the way of the righteous is lived by meditating on God’s law, and hope is placed in God’s sovereign messianic King who will bring justice and peace.

In summary:

  • Psalm 1: The blessed life is marked by delighting and meditating continuously on God’s law, leading to stability and prosperity.
  • Psalm 2: God’s sovereign King (the Messiah) is established to rule and bring victory over opposition.

These two psalms set the tone for the entire book of Psalms — a call to live by God's Word and to trust in His coming King.

Popular posts from this blog

Romans 4

Romans chapter 4 teaches that Abraham was declared righteous by God because of his faith, not by works or obedience to the law, including circumcision . Paul uses Abraham as the prime example to show that justification—being made right before God—comes through faith alone, which is a gift from God and not earned by human effort. Key points in Romans 4 include: Abraham believed God, and that belief was counted to him as righteousness (Romans 4:3, referencing Genesis 15:6). If Abraham had been justified by works, he would have had something to boast about, but justification is by faith, not works (Romans 4:2, 4–5). Paul anticipates a Jewish objection that Abraham was made righteous through circumcision (a work), but counters that Abraham was declared righteous before he was circumcised, making circumcision a sign or seal of the righteousness that was already credited to him (Romans 4:9–12). Abraham became a spiritual father not only to Jews but also to Gentiles who believe by faith...
Read more