Meaning of Psalms 22:28

This verse, Psalm 22:28, unequivocally asserts the absolute sovereignty of God over all of creation, specifically emphasizing His ultimate authority and rule over every nation on earth. The psalmist, likely David, is articulating a profound theological truth amidst his own suffering and perceived abandonment, as detailed in the preceding verses of Psalm 22. This declaration serves not as a statement of present political reality, which often sees human rulers and nations in conflict, but as a foundational confession of faith in God's supreme and eternal dominion. It is a declaration that, despite appearances and the machinations of human powers, God is the ultimate King, whose purposes will inevitably prevail.

Context and Background

Psalm 22 is a lament, a cry of deep anguish and distress, often interpreted as a prophetic foreshadowing of the suffering of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The psalmist describes intense personal suffering, persecution, and a feeling of being forsaken by God. It is within this context of profound personal hardship and a world seemingly indifferent or hostile to God that the psalmist makes this powerful affirmation of divine sovereignty. The contrast between the psalmist's personal plight and the declaration of God's universal rule highlights the steadfastness of faith even in the direst circumstances. This is not a statement made from a position of comfort, but from a place of deep spiritual conviction.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary theme is Divine Sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "dominion" (מֶמְשָׁלָה - memshalah) signifies rule, authority, and government. This points to God's inherent right and power to govern. The phrase "he rules over the nations" (וְהוּא מֹשֵׁל בַּגּוֹיִם - v'hu moshel bagoyim) underscores that His authority extends beyond any single people or kingdom; it is universal. Another key message is Trust and Hope. Even when circumstances seem to contradict this truth, the psalmist places his ultimate trust in God's overarching control. This verse offers a profound source of encouragement, assuring believers that their ultimate security lies not in human leaders or political stability, but in the unchanging reign of God.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, Psalm 22:28 calls believers to a posture of humility and worship. Recognizing God's supreme rule humbles human pride and directs adoration towards the true King. It also fosters resilience in suffering. When facing personal crises or societal turmoil, this verse reminds us that God is not out of control. His ultimate plan encompasses all nations and all events. It encourages a long-term perspective, looking beyond immediate circumstances to the eternal reign of God, which guarantees justice and vindication. For individuals, it means surrendering personal ambitions and anxieties to His will, trusting that His rule will ultimately bring about righteousness.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is foundational to the entire biblical narrative. It echoes the creation accounts in Genesis, where God establishes His authority over all that He made. It is a promise that is developed throughout the Old Testament, particularly in the prophetic books, which speak of God's judgment on nations and His ultimate establishment of His kingdom. In the New Testament, this theme culminates in Jesus Christ, who is presented as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Revelation 19:16). His reign, though spiritual in its present manifestation, is destined to become fully realized, fulfilling God's ultimate dominion over all nations. The Great Commission itself is an expression of this divine mandate, sending believers to disciple nations under Christ's authority.

Analogies

One analogy to understand God's dominion is that of a master craftsman and his creation. The craftsman has complete knowledge of his materials and the ultimate vision for his work. While the individual pieces might appear flawed or incomplete from a limited perspective, the craftsman's sovereign hand guides the entire process to a perfect conclusion. Another analogy is that of a conductor leading an orchestra. The conductor, though not playing every instrument, has the authority and vision to bring all the individual parts into a harmonious whole, directing each musician according to the score. The nations, with their diverse voices and actions, are like the instruments, all ultimately responding to the divine conductor's leading.

Relation to Other Verses

Psalm 22:28 finds resonance with numerous other biblical passages.

• Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This establishes God as the initial sovereign creator.
• Jeremiah 10:7: "Who would not fear you, O King of the nations? For that is your due. Among all the wise ones of the nations and in all their kingdoms, there is none like you." This prophetic declaration directly addresses God's rule over nations.
• Daniel 2:21: "He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding." This highlights God's active involvement in the rise and fall of human governments.
• Matthew 6:10: In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches believers to pray, "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." This reflects the ultimate desire for God's dominion to be fully realized.
• 1 Timothy 6:15-16: "which he will display at the proper time—he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen." This New Testament passage reiterates God's supreme and eternal sovereignty.