Psalms 2:12 KJV

Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

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Psalms 2:12 Bible Commentary

Psalms 2:12 - Commentary Overview

Verse: "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."

Introduction

This verse forms a crucial part of Psalm 2, which addresses the rebellion of nations against God’s anointed king. The psalm emphasizes both the futility of resisting God and the blessings that come from submission to His authority. In Psalms 2:12, the call to "Kiss the Son" signifies an invitation to honor and submit to Christ's authority, highlighting themes of reverence, fear, and faith.

Exegetical Insights

Various commentators provide rich insights into the theological significance of this verse.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry notes that the phrase "Kiss the Son" indicates an act of homage. In ancient cultures, a kiss was a gesture of allegiance to a king. Thus, this verse serves as a command to the nations to submit to the rightful authority of God’s chosen one, the Messiah. The urgency of "lest he be angry" demonstrates the seriousness of divine judgment against rebellion. Henry emphasizes the blessing associated with trust in the Son, contrasting it with the danger of incurring His wrath.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Barnes elaborates on the significance of "the Son" being a reference to God’s anointed, and implicitly to Jesus Christ. He explains that trusting in the Son is pivotal for personal peace and stability. Barnes highlights that the psalmist portrays the Son not only as a ruler but as a refuge for those who believe. The phrase "when his wrath is kindled but a little" suggests that even a minor anger from God can lead to devastating consequences. Therefore, this serves as both a warning and an invitation.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke interprets "Kiss the Son" as a profound acknowledgment of the authority and supremacy of Christ. He points out that the biblical notion of 'kissing' indicates a personal relationship and intimacy with God. Clarke also emphasizes the dire warning surrounding the consequences of ignoring this call. The phrase "Blessed are all they that put their trust in him" acts as a comforting promise, ensuring believers of their security in the face of uncertainty and opposition.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates key theological themes relevant for pastors, students, and theologians today.

Christological Significance

The "Son" mentioned here is recognized in Christian theology as the pre-existent Christ, affirming His deity and messianic role. Understanding this verse increases the awareness of the reverence due to Jesus as the King—an essential truth for worship and discipleship.

The Nature of Divine Wrath

The warning of divine wrath reminds believers of the holiness of God. It presents the seriousness of sin and rebellion against God. The phrase "when his wrath is kindled but a little" underscores the reality that God’s anger, though perhaps momentary, should not be taken lightly. This also emphasizes the need for repentance and a right relationship with God.

The Assurance of Blessing

The concluding words of the verse offer profound assurance: "Blessed are all they that put their trust in him." This reflects the core of the gospel—faith in Christ results in divine favor and blessing. The implications for pastoral ministry are clear: preaching must always contain both a call to repentance and a promise of security for those who trust in Christ.

Practical Applications

For pastors and leaders, the principles gleaned from this verse provide concrete applications for ministry.

  • Call to Worship: Use this verse to emphasize the importance of heartfelt worship and reverence toward Christ in church services.
  • Preach Repentance: Encourage congregants to recognize and forsake any resistance to Christ’s lordship in their lives.
  • Affirm Trust in God: Regularly remind believers of the security found in faith and the blessings that flow from a relationship with Christ.
  • Teach on Divine Attributes: Offer teachings that explore the nature of God’s holiness and wrath, balanced with His love and mercy.

Conclusion

Psalms 2:12 serves as both a summons to reverence and a promise of blessing. It reminds us of the eternal significance of Christ’s reign and the importance of placing our complete trust in Him. These reflections, drawn from esteemed biblical commentators, encourage a deeper understanding and a more profound response to the divine call encapsulated in this powerful verse.