The messianic psalms are those psalms which specifically speak of Israel’s coming Messiah. It may be the entire psalm (e.g. Ps. 2; 110), a passage in the psalm (e.g. Ps. 16:8-11; 40:6-10), or even a single verse (e.g. Ps. 41:9; 68:18). But in every case, at least some portion of the psalm anticipates Christ.
Identity
The New Testament identifies almost every messianic psalm by directly quoting it and applying it to Jesus Christ. Still, there are a few psalms which, although not quoted in the New Testament with reference to Christ, are nevertheless undoubtedly messianic. J. Sidlow Baxter writes, “Take psalm [72]. Its title is simply ‘A Psalm for (or concerning) Solomon’; but we cannot read it discerningly without exclaiming: ‘A greater than Solomon is here!’”
Themes
Two major themes pervade these psalms: on the one hand we read of Messiah’s rejection and sufferings; but, equally, we read of His glory and reign. This dichotomy is so great that some have concluded that there must be two Messiahs: one to suffer and one to reign. But once we are introduced to Jesus Christ, the veil is lifted, and we see clearly that all of these seemingly contradictory prophecies are harmonized in Him.
Study
What richer ground of study could we hope to find? Concerning the life and work of Messiah, these psalms give us a sweeping portrait, touching on His preincarnate glory, incarnation, earthly life, ministry, betrayal, sufferings, crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, return, and reign. Concerning His person and offices, they present One who is God, man, Son, servant, king, Messiah, priest, judge, sufferer, shepherd, corner-stone, and bridegroom. Study suggestions for these psalms include the names, attributes, offices, work, and life of Christ. Any such study would be an immensely profitable and encouraging undertaking.
1 J. Sidlow Baxter, Explore the Book (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1966).