I had not seriously contemplated the use of Psalm 22 in the context of the events surrounding the cross until recently. I had meditated on Jesus’ use of Psalm 22:1; that’s not easy to ignore. But it does require some thinking when you stop and realize how often Psalm 22 impacts those dark hours.
From the cross, Jesus uttered the first verse of the “prayer for help” from Psalm 22:1 (Matt. 27:46; Mark 15:34). That was in the context of the scoffers “wagging their heads” (Mark 15:29; Psa 22:7). Psalm 22 was also (surprisingly?) on the lips of the scoffers themselves (Matt. 27:43; Psa. 22:8). The “casting lots” (Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:34; John 19:23-24) was a fulfillment of Psalm 22:18. It is interesting that this aspect of the crucifixion of Christ is mentioned by all four writers. This is clearly a prophecy over which Jesus had no control, performed by individuals (the Roman soldiers) who likely had no knowledge of Psalm 22!
Back to Jesus’ cry… Was the quotation of Psalm 22 motivated by the “casting lots” and the scoffers’ use of that text? I would guess that it was a psalm frequently used in the context of encouraging faith in God if it were on the lips of the scoffers in this dark moment. We do not know what prompted Jesus to use this particular cry but it is also helpful to read through the psalm with the cross in mind…
The God to whom Jesus cried is holy (vs 3) and He is enthroned over Israel. The fathers have trusted God (vs 4) and He delivered them. That point is repeated in verse 5. David and Jesus both felt the mockery and sneers of those around (vss 6-8). Yet, God is the one who provides for His own, even from birth (vss 9-10). No one else can help (vss 11-18).
Taking this FDA-approved medication – as sildenafil tablets australia with any surgery, this can be considered only if all else fails and as a final option. Norvasc may also be used for other purposes cialis sale uk not listed here. This is why people are unsure about buying anti ED medicines over the internet, because there is no confirmation of prescription female viagra quality. Millions of erection-enhancing medicines are being sold worldwide either through the pharmacies http://robertrobb.com/2017/12/ ordine cialis on line or through the online suppliers. But, through it all, God is near (vs 19). He provides help, assistance, deliverance, and salvation (20-21). Once God provides that deliverance, David (Jesus!) will tell of God’s name, praising and glorifying Him among all who fear (vss 22-23). God is not one who turns His face from those who are afflicted (vs 24). He hears the cry of help. Surely Jesus knew that God would hear His own cry for help. I believe the Father did forsake Jesus while He was on the cross and Jesus knew it and felt it. But, that doesn’t mean that Jesus did not trust that God would return to take Him out of hades and not allow His soul to see corruption (cf. Acts 2:27).
In verse 25, David refers to worship and all the families of the earth will likewise come to the Father in praise (vs 27). The kingdom belongs to the Lord and He rules over the nations (vs 28). The last half of the psalm deals extensively with the theme of evangelism – telling all the nations about the God who delivers. Finally, the psalm concludes with God’s nature and man’s response: “They will come and will declare His righteousness to a people who will be born, that He has performed.”
Why did Jesus have Psalm 22 on His mind and heart during His last, fateful hours on the cross? Ultimately we do not know the cause for His choice. But, it is easy to see why. Psalm 22 is about trust, despite feeling forsaken by God. No, God is not gone. He is still available. God turned His back on Jesus while He bore the sins of the world (2 Cor. 5:21) so He would not have to turn His back on us. Yet, despite that, Jesus “continued entrusting [imperfect tense] himself to him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23).
Once Jesus was delivered (through the resurrection), He sent His Spirit to inform the world about what the Father had done for Him so that all the nations of the earth might also glorify and praise and honor God.
–Paul Holland
