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This psalm is supposed by some to have been written about the time of the coronation of Solomon. The heathen might then be the subject nations outside of Palestine, which threatened rebellion at this time. The seventh verse is applied to Christ in Hebrews 1. Let us use the psalm in this higher application of it to Christ.

I. THE REBELLION OF THE WORLD AGAINST CHRIST.

1. Is an unrighteous rebellion. Rebellion against evil powers is a righteous thing. But Christ's rule is infinitely just and good and merciful.

2. Is an unsuccessful rebellion. "The people imagine a vain thing" if they think they can overthrow the rule of Christ. That belongs to the eternal order. The sea can shatter granite cliffs, but the throne of Christ is for ever and ever.

3. Such rebellion recoils upon the heads of the rebels. Every blow we strike against justice, love, and goodness rebounds upon ourselves; but we cannot injure God, however we may grieve his Fatherly heart.

II. CHRIST IS KING OF MEN.

1. By Divine appointment. (Ver. 6.) And therefore God is said to laugh at, deride, and utter his wrath in sore displeasure against those who oppose him (vers. 4 6).

2. By Divine nature and character. "Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee" (ver. 7). The Divinest Being of all history, and, therefore, a King by the highest of all rights.

3. A King by the actual and possible extent of his empire. "I will give thee the nations for thine inheritance," etc. (ver. 8). He who has conquered a world is its rightful ruler. Christ is now worthy; but one day he will actually conquer the world.

III. THE UNAVOIDABLE INFERENCE. That we should be reconciled to God, and be at one with Christ. The wrath of God is unendurable, but "blessed are all they that put their trust in him." - S.

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KJV: Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

WEB: Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing?