Song of the Great King
0 Amens
Intro: Sentimentality rules, and often obscures truth. We need more than a baby in a manger.
Big Idea: Jesus offers the hope of restoration to God’s design.
Context: It is by or for David, probably referring to the events of 2 Sam. 10. It’s promises refer to the promises given via Nathan in 2 Sam. 7. Its ultimate fulfillment is in Jesus according to the Apostles who used it often to explain what Messiah has done & will do. Quoted in Acts 4:24-27; 13:33; Hebrews 1:5; 5:5; Rev. 2:27; 12:5.
I. Jesus entered a dangerous, broken world (vs. 1-3).
- This Psalm begins with danger- the danger of rebellious vassal kings.
- Adam rebelled against God. This world became a dangerous, broken place. Ill. palate
- Nations & leaders conspired, joining together to overthrow YHWH. Ill. Terrorists
- At Jesus’ birth, Herod plotted to destroy Him. Acts 4:24-27 applies this to His death.
- The Anointed One reigns as God’s representative to accomplish God’s purposes.
- Prophets, priests & kings were anointed with oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit: messiahs.
- At His baptism, the Spirit visibly descends to anoint Him for his office of Messiah.
- Nations sought to remove the bonds- their obligations to the great King.
- Many think freedom is found in casting off authority- but are tyrannized. Ill. teens
- God binds us with “cords of love”- His law seeks our good, offers life & freedom.
Transition: Jesus, as Messiah, enters into hostile territory to accomplish a mission.
II. Jesus the One Chosen to restore order to creation (vs. 4-9).
- Contrasting earthly kings is “the One enthroned in heaven.” He is the True King.
- God laughs, mocking the rebels and their impotent plans. Ill. Eli hitting
- His rebuke is terrifying- bravado disappears. The rebuke: I installed my King (Acts 2).
- Jesus’ prophetic ministry: offering to us the words of God’s eternal decree (Heb. 1).
- “Become” does not point to actual paternity, but to present one in loving relationship.
- Jesus, like David, was rejected after His anointing: Voice declared His eternal Sonship.
- Rom. 1 & Acts 13:33 tie this to His coronation, publicly put forth, to His resurrection.
- Nations are His inheritance: restoring the nations to obedience to God thru the gospel.
- Those who resist will be destroyed like pottery. Jesus loves & protects church. Ill. Hulk
Transition: God sent Jesus into hostile territory on a mission to restore creation to its design.
III. Take refuge in Messiah to enjoy the restoration (vs. 10-12).
- The implications of God’s decree are drawn out by a series of commands.
- 1st, “Get a clue & learn.” We are invited to gain insight from corrective discipline.
- Consequences for disobedience are meant to teach us we have chosen poorly.
- 2nd, “Serve joyfully.” Worship is obedience & vice versa. Rejoice in God’s choice.
- An element of fear & trembling remains: He is a great & powerful King! Ill. Betty/Aslan
- The fear of the Lord => beginning of wisdom: listening to the right Person. Ill. kids
- 3rd, “Kiss in allegiance”- a public sign of allegiance promising obedience. Ill. Pope
- Unbelief, which fuels rebellion, angers Jesus. He destroys all who remain His enemies.
- 4th, “Take refuge” in the One in whom all true blessing is found. Ill. Rock of Ages
- This is a promise given to promote obedience. Jesus is kindly disposed to receive us!
- We hide from God’s wrath at our disobedience in the Mediator His provided.
Conclusion: Jesus is the Messiah the Father has chosen to put creation back to right. That process began with His birth, His anointing and earthly ministry, death & resurrection for us, and now his heavenly ministry for us and in us. Jesus also accomplishes these great purposes thru us in evangelism. Where are you in all this? Still raging, plotting and seeking freedom from God’s authority? Or have you sought refuge in Messiah, embracing His blessing & serving Him?
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