Psalms
Psalm 2
6The two kingdoms. This struggle be tween the kings of the earth and God’s Anointed announces the Book of Revelation. God has come among us. His presence is a challenge to those who would like to be lords of the earth. There will be no lasting peace here below.
1 Why do the nations conspire? 1 Why do the peoples plot in vain?
2 The kings of the earth brace themselves
2 and the rulers together take their stand
2 against the Lord and his anointed.
3 They say, “Let us break their bonds!
3 Let us cast away their chains!”
4 The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
4 the Lord looks at them in derision.
5 Then in anger he speaks to them,
5 terrifying them in the fury of his wrath:
6 “Behold the king I have installed,
6 in Zion, upon my holy hill!”
7 I will proclaim the decree of the Lord.
7 He said to me: “You are my son.
7 This day I have begotten you.
8 Ask of me and I will give you
8 the nations for your inheritance,
8 the ends of the earth for your possession.
9 You shall rule them with iron scepter
9 and shatter them as a potter’s vase.”
10 Now therefore, learn wisdom, O kings;
10 be warned, O rulers of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear
11 and fall at his feet;
11 lest he be angry and you perish
11 when his anger suddenly flares.
11 Blessed are all who take refuge in him!