Chapter Summary

The psalm of the king; rejected, established and finally reigning.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 2

1. According to verse 1, the "rage" of the nations and the plots of the people are "in vain" (ESV). From the rest of this chapter, how does the psalmist prove that this is true?
2. How is the opposition detailed in verses 2-3 relevant to today? How do modern-day believers face actions "against the LORD and against his Anointed"? (ESV)
3. Verses 4-6 are a response to the threats of the kings and rulers of this world. What peace and assurance of God's power is there to be found for believers in these verses?
4. Is God indifferent towards the forces of opposition that believers face in this world? What evidence is found throughout the chapter to prove he is not?
5. Where in this text is the "Son" of the Lord mentioned (hint: he is mentioned more than once). Who is the Son? What is his role in and outside of this psalm?
6. According to verse 8, what is the inheritance of the Son? How might this bring comfort to believers not of Jewish heritage?
7. The psalmist presents the kings and rulers with a warning to choose wisdom rather than foolishness, which implies they are not beyond redemption. How might this understanding impact the way we pray for the rulers and authority figures set over us?
8. Look at verse 11. Are "fear" and "trembling" wrong when it comes to considering God? (ESV) Why or why not?
9. According to verse 12, what happens to those who reject the Son? What does it look like to do the opposite, to "Kiss the Son"? (ESV)
10. While "fury" and "wrath" belong to the Lord and the Son in this psalm, what action is the believer called to take in the face of oppression (found in verse 12)? (ESV) Does this serve as an encouragement to you? Why or why not?

Key Words/Phrase

God’s King, v. 6.

Characters

God, Christ, kings of earth.

Strong Verse(s)

8, 12.