Two battles are fought at Zion’s Hill. The first time, He’s crushed (Isa 53:4); the next time, they will be.
Psalm 2 is a thriller! The first scene (vv 1-3) is a battle diorama of sorts, like a boy playing with toy soldiers. “The kings of the earth set themselves…against the Lord and against His Anointed [Messiah]” (v 2). But no matter how many “nations” gather, it’s all “a vain thing” (v 1). In fact, their agreed plan to break free from the God who gave them breath is laughable in heaven. See, here is God’s throne room (vv 4-6). How does He respond to their foolish plot? With “derision” (v 4) and “deep displeasure” (v 5). Who do they think they are? And who have they chosen as their enemy combatant? It’s “the Lord…who sits in the heavens” (vv 2, 4). But wait! Like the showdown at the Valley of Elah, a champion comes forth to represent the Lord’s side (vv 7-9). Someone has left heaven to single-handedly engage this vast enemy. Shockingly, it’s God’s own “Son” (v 7), coming to claim His kingdom (v 8). Setting up camp at a place God calls “My holy hill of Zion” (v 6), there He will make His stand. He’s been there before, when “Herod, with his men of war, treated Him with contempt” (Lk 23:11). The slaughter at Calvary seemed to end in defeat, but was in fact the greatest victory ever won. Yet these now arrayed against Him have despised His offer of “peace through the blood of His cross” (Col 1:20). This time, however, it will not be a reed in His hand, but “a rod of iron,” and God warns He will “dash them to pieces” (Ps 2:9). But wait! The battle hasn’t started yet, you silly warriors (vv 10-12). There’s still time to lay down your puny weapons. “Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way” (v 12). The God of patience pleads for you to be wise (v 10) and concludes: “Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him” (v 12).