◄ Psalm 22 ►
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Summary The Psalm of the Cross Psalm 22 is a testament to the enduring faith one can have in God, even amidst suffering. It teaches us that in our darkest hours, we can look back at God's faithfulness and forward to His deliverance, which leads us to praise Him. This Psalm encourages us to remember that every trial we face is an opportunity to strengthen our faith and commitment to God. The Cry of Desolation (Verses 1-2) David begins the Psalm by expressing feelings of abandonment. He questions why God seems distant during his time of distress, a time when he cries out without a seeming response. Remembering God's Faithfulness (Verses 3-5) Despite his despair, David recalls the faithfulness of God towards his ancestors. He acknowledges that they trusted in God and were delivered from their trials. David’s Torments (Verses 6-8) David vividly describes his torments and feelings of insignificance. He tells of his enemies mocking his faith in God. Confidence in God's Plan (Verses 9-10) Despite his current suffering, David reaffirms his trust in God, remembering how God has been with him since his birth. Plea for Deliverance (Verses 11-18) David presents a fervent plea to God for deliverance. He portrays his dire situation, surrounded by enemies who, like wild animals, are ready to attack him. Divine Intervention (Verses 19-21) He pleads for God’s urgent intervention, seeking deliverance from his afflictions. Proclamation of Praise (Verses 22-24) Upon foreseeing his deliverance, David proclaims his intention to testify of God's goodness among his brethren and to praise God in the congregation. An Invitation to Praise God (Verses 25-31) The Psalm concludes with an exhortation to all – the humble, those who seek God, the nations – to turn to the Lord and worship. David also prophesies that future generations will proclaim God's righteousness to a people yet unborn. Psalm 22 is a poignant composition by David that conveys the deep distress of someone who, despite feeling forsaken by God, continues to express steadfast faith. The Psalm begins with a heart-wrenching cry for help, takes the reader through an intense description of suffering, and concludes with a confident prophecy of deliverance and global worship. Teaching Points The Cry of Despair The psalm opens with a profound sense of abandonment, reflecting both David's personal struggles and the future suffering of Christ (Psalm 22:1-2). Trust in God's Faithfulness Despite his anguish, David recalls God's past faithfulness to Israel, highlighting the importance of remembering God's deliverance (Psalm 22:3-5). The Suffering Servant The vivid imagery of suffering in verses 6-18 parallels the crucifixion of Jesus, emphasizing the prophetic nature of this psalm (Psalm 22:6-18). A Shift to Praise The tone shifts from lament to praise as David anticipates God's deliverance and vows to declare His name to future generations (Psalm 22:22-31). Messianic Fulfillment The psalm is a powerful testament to the messianic prophecy, fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Practical Applications Finding Hope in Despair When feeling abandoned or in distress, remember that God is present and has a plan for deliverance. Trusting God's Faithfulness Reflect on past experiences of God's faithfulness to strengthen your trust in Him during current trials. Embracing Suffering with Purpose Recognize that suffering can have a redemptive purpose, as seen in the life of Christ. Proclaiming God's Goodness Share testimonies of God's deliverance and faithfulness with others to encourage and build up the faith community. People 1. The Psalmist (David) The primary speaker in the psalm, traditionally identified as King David. He expresses deep anguish and a sense of abandonment by God, yet ultimately trusts in God's deliverance. The psalm begins with the cry, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1), which is echoed by Jesus on the cross in the New Testament. 2. God Referred to throughout the psalm as the one whom the psalmist calls upon for help and deliverance. The psalmist acknowledges God's holiness and past faithfulness to Israel, saying, "Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel" (Psalm 22:3). 3. The Ancestors (Fathers of Israel) Mentioned as those who trusted in God and were delivered. The psalmist recalls, "In You our fathers trusted; they trusted and You delivered them" (Psalm 22:4). 4. The Mockers (People) Those who ridicule and scorn the psalmist, reflecting the mockery Jesus faced during His crucifixion. The psalmist describes them: "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads" (Psalm 22:7). 5. The Congregation of the Righteous Implied as those who will ultimately praise God for His deliverance. The psalmist anticipates declaring God's name to his brothers and praising Him in the assembly: "I will proclaim Your name to my brothers; I will praise You in the assembly" (Psalm 22:22). 6. The Afflicted (Poor) Those who will be satisfied and praise God, as mentioned towards the end of the psalm. The psalmist declares, "The poor will eat and be satisfied; those who seek the LORD will praise Him" (Psalm 22:26). 7. Future Generations Implied as those who will hear of God's righteousness and acts of deliverance. The psalm concludes with a vision of future generations serving the Lord: "They will proclaim His righteousness to a people yet unborn—for He has done it" (Psalm 22:31). In the original Hebrew, the psalm uses terms like "אֵלִי" (Eli, "My God") and "אָבוֹתֵינוּ" (avotenu, "our fathers"), which emphasize the personal and communal relationship with God. The psalm's vivid imagery and prophetic elements have made it a central text in Christian theology, particularly in its connection to the passion of Christ. Places 1. The Assembly of the Wicked This is a metaphorical place mentioned in Psalm 22:16, "For dogs surround me; a band of evil men encircles me." The "assembly" or "band" refers to a gathering of those who oppose and persecute the psalmist, symbolizing a place of hostility and danger. 2. The Dust of Death In Psalm 22:15, the psalmist says, "You lay me in the dust of death." This phrase symbolizes a place of extreme suffering and near-death, reflecting the psalmist's deep distress and sense of abandonment. 3. The Horns of the Wild Oxen In Psalm 22:21, the psalmist cries out for deliverance "from the horns of the wild oxen." This imagery represents a place of peril and threat, as wild oxen were known for their strength and danger in ancient times. 4. The Congregation Psalm 22:22 states, "I will proclaim Your name to my brothers; I will praise You in the assembly." Here, the "congregation" or "assembly" is a place of worship and community, where the psalmist vows to praise God among fellow believers. 5. The Ends of the Earth In Psalm 22:27, it is written, "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD." This phrase signifies a place of universal reach, indicating that the message of God's deliverance will extend to all corners of the world. 6. The Great Assembly Psalm 22:25 mentions, "From You comes my praise in the great assembly." This "great assembly" is a place of public worship and testimony, where the psalmist acknowledges God's faithfulness before a large gathering. Events 1. Cry of Abandonment The psalm begins with a profound cry of abandonment, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1). This expression of distress is echoed in the New Testament by Jesus on the cross, highlighting a deep sense of separation from God. 2. Plea for Deliverance The psalmist pleads for God's help, expressing trust in God's past faithfulness to Israel, "In You our fathers trusted; they trusted and You delivered them" (Psalm 22:4). This reflects a reliance on God's historical acts of salvation. 3. Scorn and Mockery The psalmist describes being scorned and mocked by others, "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads" (Psalm 22:7). This mirrors the mockery Jesus faced during His crucifixion. 4. Physical Suffering The psalmist vividly describes physical suffering, "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are disjointed" (Psalm 22:14). This imagery is often associated with the physical agony of crucifixion. 5. Encirclement by Enemies The psalmist feels surrounded by enemies, "For dogs surround me; a band of evil men encircles me" (Psalm 22:16). This can be seen as a metaphor for the hostile forces against Jesus. 6. Casting Lots for Garments The psalmist notes, "They divide my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing" (Psalm 22:18). This specific event is directly fulfilled in the New Testament account of the crucifixion. 7. Prayer for Rescue A plea for rescue and deliverance is made, "But You, O LORD, be not far off; O my Strength, come quickly to help me" (Psalm 22:19). This reflects a deep yearning for divine intervention. 8. Declaration of Praise The tone shifts to praise and a vow to declare God's name, "I will proclaim Your name to my brothers; I will praise You in the assembly" (Psalm 22:22). This signifies a transition from suffering to hope and future testimony. 9. Universal Worship The psalm concludes with a vision of universal worship, "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD" (Psalm 22:27). This anticipates the global impact of the Messiah's work. 10. Future Generations The psalmist speaks of future generations serving the Lord, "They will proclaim His righteousness to a people yet unborn" (Psalm 22:31). This points to the enduring legacy of God's salvation. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 27:46 Jesus quotes Psalm 22:1 on the cross, highlighting its fulfillment in His suffering. Hebrews 2:12 The author of Hebrews cites Psalm 22:22, connecting it to Jesus' role in declaring God's name to His brethren. Isaiah 53 The Suffering Servant passage in Isaiah parallels the themes of suffering and redemption found in Psalm 22. Romans 8:28 This verse reassures believers that God works all things for good, even in times of suffering. Prayer Points For Trust in God's Presence Pray for a deepened trust in God's presence and faithfulness, even when He seems silent. For Strength in Suffering Ask for strength and perseverance during times of trial, recognizing the redemptive purpose in suffering. For Boldness in Proclamation Pray for the courage to share personal testimonies of God's deliverance and faithfulness with others. For Understanding of Christ's Sacrifice Seek a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifice of Jesus, as foreshadowed in Psalm 22. As we study Psalm 22, may we find comfort in knowing that our Savior has walked the path of suffering before us and that through Him, we have the promise of deliverance and eternal hope. Bible Study Questions 1. How do you relate to David's feeling of abandonment in verses 1-2? 2. What can we learn from David's remembrance of God's faithfulness to his ancestors in times of despair (verses 3-5)? 3. In your life, how have you handled mockery or scorn due to your faith, as David did (verses 6-8)? 4. How does David's unshakeable faith, despite his situation, inspire you (verses 9-10)? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt surrounded by 'enemies.' How did your faith influence your response (verses 11-18)? 6. How does this Psalm help you understand the role of prayer during times of crisis (verses 19-21)? 7. What are the ways you testify of God's goodness in your life (verses 22-24)? 8. How do verses 25-31 inspire you to invite others to praise God? 9. In Psalm 22, David moved from lament to praise. What does this teach you about the nature of faith? 10. What is the significance of David's prophecy about future generations (verse 31)? 11. In what ways does Psalm 22 encourage you to maintain hope in seemingly hopeless situations? 12. How can you apply the lessons from Psalm 22 to a current situation in your life? 13. How does Psalm 22 change your perspective on suffering and deliverance? 14. Why do you think David continued to express his faith in God despite feeling abandoned? 15. How can Psalm 22 guide us in responding to personal trials in our day-to-day lives? 16. How can we use David's experiences in Psalm 22 to help others who might be going through a similar situation? 17. How does Psalm 22 inform our understanding of the concept of sacrifice and redemption? 18. What lessons can we learn about community from David's call to collective worship? 19. How does Psalm 22 enhance your understanding of the relationship between lament and praise? 20. How can we use the insights from Psalm 22 to strengthen our faith and commitment to God? Topics 1. Cry of Abandonment The psalm begins with a profound sense of abandonment: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1). This cry is echoed in the New Testament by Jesus on the cross, highlighting its messianic significance. The Hebrew word "עזבתני" (azavtani) conveys a deep sense of being left behind or forsaken. 2. Plea for Deliverance The psalmist pleads for God's intervention: "O my God, I cry out by day, but You do not answer" (Psalm 22:2). This reflects a persistent seeking of God's presence and help, emphasizing the Hebrew root "שׁוע" (shava), meaning to cry out for help. 3. God's Holiness and Trustworthiness Despite feelings of abandonment, the psalmist acknowledges God's holiness: "Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel" (Psalm 22:3). The Hebrew word "קדוש" (qadosh) underscores God's sacred and set-apart nature. 4. Historical Trust in God The psalmist recalls the trust of the ancestors: "In You our fathers trusted; they trusted and You delivered them" (Psalm 22:4). This reflects a historical pattern of reliance on God, rooted in the Hebrew concept of "בטח" (batach), meaning to trust or be confident. 5. Personal Scorn and Mockery The psalmist describes being scorned and mocked: "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads" (Psalm 22:7). This experience of derision is captured in the Hebrew "לעג" (laag), meaning to mock or deride. 6. Prophetic Suffering The psalmist vividly describes suffering: "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are disjointed" (Psalm 22:14). This imagery is prophetic of the suffering Messiah, with "שפך" (shafach) indicating being poured out or emptied. 7. Divine Nearness and Help Despite the suffering, there is a plea for God's nearness: "But You, O LORD, be not far off; O my Strength, come quickly to help me" (Psalm 22:19). The Hebrew "קרוב" (qarov) emphasizes the desired closeness of God. 8. Declaration of Praise The psalm transitions to a declaration of praise: "I will proclaim Your name to my brothers; I will praise You in the assembly" (Psalm 22:22). This reflects a shift from lament to worship, with "הלל" (halal) meaning to praise or boast in God. 9. Universal Worship The psalmist envisions a future where all nations worship God: "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD" (Psalm 22:27). The Hebrew "שוב" (shuv) signifies turning or returning, indicating repentance and worship. 10. Righteous Rule and Legacy The psalm concludes with a vision of God's righteous rule: "For dominion belongs to the LORD and He rules over the nations" (Psalm 22:28). The Hebrew "מלך" (malak) denotes ruling or reigning, affirming God's sovereignty. Themes 1. Forsakenness and Lament Psalm 22 begins with a profound sense of abandonment, as expressed in the opening verse: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1). This theme of forsakenness is central to the psalm, capturing the deep anguish and sense of isolation experienced by the psalmist. The Hebrew word "עזבתני" (azavtani) conveys a sense of being left behind or deserted, emphasizing the depth of the psalmist's lament. 2. Mockery and Scorn The psalmist describes being mocked and scorned by others: "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads" (Psalm 22:7). This theme highlights the ridicule and derision faced by the psalmist, reflecting a common experience of suffering and humiliation. The Hebrew root "לעג" (la'ag) for "mock" underscores the contempt and derision directed at the psalmist. 3. Physical Suffering and Distress The psalm vividly portrays physical suffering: "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are disjointed" (Psalm 22:14). This theme of physical distress is expressed through vivid imagery, capturing the psalmist's intense pain and weakness. The Hebrew word "שפך" (shafach) for "poured out" conveys a sense of being completely emptied or exhausted. 4. Desperation and Plea for Deliverance The psalmist cries out for deliverance: "But You, O LORD, be not far off; O my Strength, come quickly to help me" (Psalm 22:19). This theme of desperation and urgent plea for divine intervention reflects the psalmist's reliance on God as the ultimate source of help and salvation. The Hebrew word "חוש" (chush) for "come quickly" emphasizes the urgency of the plea. 5. Faith and Trust in God Despite the suffering, the psalmist expresses trust in God: "In You our fathers trusted; they trusted and You delivered them" (Psalm 22:4). This theme of faith and trust underscores the psalmist's belief in God's faithfulness and past acts of deliverance. The Hebrew root "בטח" (batach) for "trusted" conveys a sense of confidence and reliance on God. 6. Vindication and Praise The psalm transitions to a theme of vindication and praise: "I will declare Your name to my brothers; in the assembly I will praise You" (Psalm 22:22). This shift reflects the psalmist's confidence in eventual deliverance and the desire to publicly proclaim God's goodness. The Hebrew word "ספר" (saphar) for "declare" indicates a recounting or telling forth of God's deeds. 7. Universal Worship and Dominion The psalm concludes with a vision of universal worship: "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD" (Psalm 22:27). This theme of global recognition and worship of God highlights the psalmist's hope for a future where all nations acknowledge God's sovereignty. The Hebrew root "זכר" (zakar) for "remember" suggests a calling to mind and turning towards God. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions