Psalms 2:11
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
Serve the Lord with fear,.... Not the creature, neither more, nor besides, nor with the Creator; God and mammon cannot both be served; nor any fictitious and nominal deities, the idols of the Gentiles, who are not gods by nature; but the true Jehovah, the one and only Lord God, he only is to be worshipped and served, even Father, Son, and Spirit. Here it may be understood either of the Lord Christ, the Son of God, who is to be served by the kings and judges of the earth, he being King of kings, and Lord of lords; or rather of Jehovah the Father, since the Son seems to be distinguished from him in Psa 2:12, and the service these persons are called unto lies not in the discharge of any office in the church, as in preaching the word, which is serving God in the Gospel of his Son; and hence the ministers of the word are eminently called the servants of the most high God; for kings and judges are not required hereby to lay aside their crowns and sceptres, and leave their seats of justice, and become preachers of the Gospel; but in acting according to the will of God revealed in his word, and in the whole worship of him, both internal and external: and this is to be done "with fear", not with fear of man, nor with servile fear of God, but with a godly and filial fear, with a reverential affection for him, and in a way agreeable to his mind and will; with reverence and awe of him, without levity, carelessness, and negligence; and rejoice with trembling; some reference may be had to the joy in public worship, as at sacrifices and festivals, and the music in divine service under the law; and the singing of psalms and hymns and spiritual songs under the Gospel; and especially to the Gospel dispensation itself, which is a time of joy and rejoicing; the Gospel is good tidings of great joy; the kingdom of God is not in things external, but in joy in the Holy Ghost; and, above all, respect is had to a rejoicing in Christ Jesus, in his person, righteousness, and salvation: and which is consistent with "trembling"; not with a fearful looking for of judgment, but with modesty and humility; in which sense this word, when joined with "fear" as here, is used Phi 2:12, and stands opposed to pride, haughtiness, and arrogance; men should so rejoice in Christ as to have no confidence in the flesh, or assume any degree of glory to themselves, or have any rejoicing in themselves, but wholly in Christ, giving all the glory of what they have to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:11-12 rejoice: Rulers must welcome the Son as their true and only King. • Submit to God’s royal son (or Submit to God’s royal Son, or kiss the son): Kissing was an expression of submission (Hos 13:2). • The Lord gives joy to all who fear him (Ps 1:1-2) and trust him (18:30; 34:22; 119:1-3).
Psalms 2:11
The Triumphant Messiah
10Therefore be wise, O kings; be admonished, O judges of the earth. 11Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12Kiss the Son, lest He be angry and you perish in your rebellion, when His wrath ignites in an instant. Blessed are all who take refuge in Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Fear of the Lord
By Derek Prince6.5K2:17:57Fear Of GodPSA 2:11PRO 1:24PRO 19:231PE 1:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses three important points. First, God's Spirit is searching for individuals with a heart that is fully committed to Him. Second, when God finds such a person, He will strengthen and support them. Third, the fear of the Lord is a crucial characteristic of someone with a right relationship with God. The speaker acknowledges that the phrase "fear of the Lord" may have negative connotations, but emphasizes its importance. The sermon encourages listeners to cultivate the fear of the Lord in their lives and offers a book and cassette for further study on the topic.
Of the Fear of God.
By John Gill0True WorshipFear Of GodPSA 2:11PSA 34:9PSA 103:13PSA 130:4PRO 8:13ECC 12:13ISA 50:10MAL 4:2MAT 10:28HEB 12:28John Gill emphasizes the profound significance of the fear of God in true worship, asserting that it encompasses both internal and external expressions of faith. He explains that fearing God is not about being afraid of Him, but rather about reverence and respect, which leads to obedience and a life aligned with His commandments. Gill contrasts this godly fear with various forms of ungodly fear, such as servile or hypocritical fear, and highlights that true fear of God results in a hatred of sin and a commitment to righteousness. He concludes by affirming the blessings and promises that come to those who fear the Lord, including His protection, provision, and acceptance.
The Fear of the Lord
By Andrew Murray0Fear Of The LordTrust in GodPSA 2:11PSA 22:23PSA 34:9PSA 112:1PSA 135:20PRO 1:7PRO 9:10ISA 41:10ACT 9:311JN 4:18Andrew Murray emphasizes the dual nature of fear in the Scriptures, distinguishing between sinful fear, which stems from unbelief, and the reverent fear of the Lord, which is rooted in trust and leads to blessings. He explains that the fear of the Lord is essential for spiritual life, providing wisdom, protection, and joy, and is characterized by humility, vigilance, and zeal. Murray encourages believers to cultivate a childlike fear of God that honors Him and fosters a deep relationship, assuring that those who fear the Lord will not fear anything else. He highlights the importance of instilling this reverent fear in children, as it prepares them for a joyful walk with the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a united heart that reveres God's name, promising that such fear will lead to love and joy in God.
Hebrews 6:7-12
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 2:11PRO 24:11LUK 10:37ROM 1:181CO 10:12GAL 6:102TI 2:25HEB 6:9John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of heeding the warnings in the Bible with fear and trembling, emphasizing the consequences of bearing thorns and thistles instead of fruits. He urges believers to fear falling into sin, to be diligent in their faith, and to show compassion and kindness to all, not just to fellow believers. Chrysostom encourages the congregation to imitate the Samaritan in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, showing mercy and care to those in need, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Homily 17 on Ephesians
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 2:11MAT 5:45MAT 6:141CO 13:112CO 6:14EPH 4:32John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of imitating God by being kind, tender-hearted, and forgiving towards one another, just as God forgave us through Christ's sacrifice. He emphasizes the need to walk in love, following Christ's example of sacrificial love. Chrysostom warns against engaging in jesting, filthiness, and foolish talking, urging believers to instead give thanks and avoid behaviors unbecoming of saints. He highlights the significance of imitating God as beloved children and living a life of love and forgiveness, reflecting the sacrificial love of Christ.
Philippians 2:12-16
By St. John Chrysostom0JOB 1:21JOB 6:7PSA 2:11PSA 69:20EPH 6:12PHP 2:12PHP 2:172TI 4:6HEB 4:12John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of working out one's salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the need for personal responsibility and diligence in following God's will. He encourages believers to do all things without murmuring and disputings, to be blameless and harmless, shining as lights in a dark world, holding forth the word of life. Chrysostom reminds the audience to rejoice in suffering for Christ's sake, to find joy in presenting themselves as sacrifices to God, and to maintain a spirit of gratitude and thanksgiving in all circumstances.
We Believe That the Divine Presence Is Everywhere
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PSA 2:11PSA 46:7PSA 137:1PRO 15:3COL 3:16St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the omnipresence of God, reminding believers that the eyes of the Lord are watching over both the good and the evil at all times. He encourages unwavering faith in God's presence, especially during acts of worship and service. St. Benedict urges the congregation to serve the Lord with reverence and to sing praises wisely, acknowledging the presence of angels. He calls for a harmonious connection between the mind and voice during psalmody, highlighting the importance of conducting oneself in a manner pleasing to God and His heavenly beings.
They Are Attended With a Christian Tenderness of Spirit.
By Jonathan Edwards0EXO 34:8PSA 2:11PSA 33:18PSA 51:17PSA 147:11PRO 28:14ISA 66:2HOS 13:1ROM 11:201PE 3:15Jonathan Edwards preaches about the contrast between gracious affections that soften the heart and false affections that harden it. Gracious affections lead to a Christian tenderness of spirit, promoting a deep sense of sin, a dread of displeasing God, and a humble reverence in worship. True grace increases convictions of conscience, making the heart tender towards sin, while false conversions diminish conscientiousness. Gracious affections, including godly sorrow, joy, and hope, all contribute to this Christian tenderness of heart, fostering a balance of holy assurance and reverential fear.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
Serve the Lord with fear,.... Not the creature, neither more, nor besides, nor with the Creator; God and mammon cannot both be served; nor any fictitious and nominal deities, the idols of the Gentiles, who are not gods by nature; but the true Jehovah, the one and only Lord God, he only is to be worshipped and served, even Father, Son, and Spirit. Here it may be understood either of the Lord Christ, the Son of God, who is to be served by the kings and judges of the earth, he being King of kings, and Lord of lords; or rather of Jehovah the Father, since the Son seems to be distinguished from him in Psa 2:12, and the service these persons are called unto lies not in the discharge of any office in the church, as in preaching the word, which is serving God in the Gospel of his Son; and hence the ministers of the word are eminently called the servants of the most high God; for kings and judges are not required hereby to lay aside their crowns and sceptres, and leave their seats of justice, and become preachers of the Gospel; but in acting according to the will of God revealed in his word, and in the whole worship of him, both internal and external: and this is to be done "with fear", not with fear of man, nor with servile fear of God, but with a godly and filial fear, with a reverential affection for him, and in a way agreeable to his mind and will; with reverence and awe of him, without levity, carelessness, and negligence; and rejoice with trembling; some reference may be had to the joy in public worship, as at sacrifices and festivals, and the music in divine service under the law; and the singing of psalms and hymns and spiritual songs under the Gospel; and especially to the Gospel dispensation itself, which is a time of joy and rejoicing; the Gospel is good tidings of great joy; the kingdom of God is not in things external, but in joy in the Holy Ghost; and, above all, respect is had to a rejoicing in Christ Jesus, in his person, righteousness, and salvation: and which is consistent with "trembling"; not with a fearful looking for of judgment, but with modesty and humility; in which sense this word, when joined with "fear" as here, is used Phi 2:12, and stands opposed to pride, haughtiness, and arrogance; men should so rejoice in Christ as to have no confidence in the flesh, or assume any degree of glory to themselves, or have any rejoicing in themselves, but wholly in Christ, giving all the glory of what they have to him.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:11-12 rejoice: Rulers must welcome the Son as their true and only King. • Submit to God’s royal son (or Submit to God’s royal Son, or kiss the son): Kissing was an expression of submission (Hos 13:2). • The Lord gives joy to all who fear him (Ps 1:1-2) and trust him (18:30; 34:22; 119:1-3).