The Basis For Boldness In Evangelism: Psalm 2

The Psalm contains a prophecy of the reign of Christ the Prince. This does not refer to His reign as God the Son - Creator of the world, but of His reign as man the son i.e. the mediating reign of Jesus as redeemer.

1. We need to let the NT teach us what the OT means. Ps. 2 is a great example of this because the NT has a good deal to say about it.
1. Acts 4:24-28 Why do the nations rage?
1. teaches us that vv.1-2 of the psalm prophesy the crucifixion.
2. the murder of Christ was predestined. God used the wickedness of men to save the world.
3. God accomplished this, in spite of the "great conspiracy."
1. Herod, Pilate, Gentiles, People of Israel (esp. priests & leaders).
2. Nothing is going to happen, that takes God by surprise.



2. Acts 13:30-33, Today You are begotten.
1. we learn that v. 7 of our psalm is a prophecy of the resurrection.
2. This verse is quoted in two other places also.
1. Heb1:5 shows us that this passage shows the supremacy of Christ over angels.
2. Heb 5:5 quotes it as describing Christ entering His office as high priest.
3. Put this together, we see that in the resurrection, Christ is begotten from the dead, enters into His high priestly work, and is made higher than the angels.



3. Revelation refers to v.9 three times concerning Christ's rod of iron.
1. Rev 19:15-16 refers to Christ's rule over the nations.
2. Rev 12:5 refers simply to Christ's rule over the nations.
3. Rev 2:26-29 teaches us that Christ rules the nations through His saints. (Rev 1:6, 5:10) Christ has made us kings and priests on the earth.



2. But the psalm has twelve verses.
1. We know that 1-2 are about the crucifixion, that v. 7 is about the resurrection, and that v. 9 addresses the reign of Christ over the world through the Church.
2. What then do we learn from the rest of the psalm?
1. tells us that the nations' resent the yoke of Christ, however "easy" it might be V. 3.
2. This Brings us to the laughter, wrath and displeasure of God.
1. Just when men were congratulating themselves on their victory - God had a good laugh V. 4f.
2. The sun was dark, the disciples scattered, our Lord in anguish, the Sanhedrin gloating, Satan triumphant, Peter wretched, Judas in despair, and Mary in tears.
3. And yet God will do what He has intended to do through all this. Despite their pitiful little schemes, the Lord will establish His King (v. 6), however little they like it.
3. After the crucifixion, and just following the resurrection, God extends an invitation to His Son, Jesus Christ - He invites Him to just ask (V.8)
1. What belongs to Jesus Christ now? What nation is not His present possession? Can you find one? Is there one He didn't want?
2. Remember, the rod of iron extends over all of them (v. 9).
4. It is therefore the responsibility of Kings, Presidents, Judges, Rulers & all people to seek wisdom and receive instruction. They are summoned to serve God, with fear, joy, and trembling (v.10- 12).

1. How does this knowledge effect evangelism? Much in every way:
1. Understanding the position occupied by Jesus, gives us the boldness to do evangelism.
1. In Acts 2, Peter argues that Jesus has ascended to Heaven and reigns as David's heir and upon this basis summons the people to submit to their Lord and king.
2. The disciples are made bold by this knowledge Acts 4:31
2. Jesus is Prophet, Priest and King.
1. In Him we have been made P, P & Kings...
2. We are called, as such, to summon men to kiss the Son.

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This page was last modified on January 16, 2007