The first half of this Psalm (vs. 1-22) describes a level of suffering that goes beyond David's experience. The Speaker is forsaken by God (vs. 1, 2) and ridiculed by all men (vs. 6-8). Verses 1, 16, and 18 have a clear fulfillment in the passion of Christ (Matt 27:35, 46).
In the second half of this Psalm (vs. 22-31) there is a complete reversal, from suffering to victory, that is only explained by the resurrection. Christ is pictured in the midst of His church, calling His people 'brethren' (cf. Heb 2:12). The conclusion of this Psalm shows the result of Christ's work in its greatest proportions. Many will be blessed by the suffering of one (vs. 27-31). Christ quoted the first and last lines of this Psalm from the cross (Matt 27:46; John 19:30), making it very possible that He sang the entire Psalm in His dying moments. |