Psalm 22 is one of the most poignant and profound pieces of scripture in the Old Testament. Attributed to King David, this psalm is a powerful expression of anguish, faith, and ultimately, hope. It is often referred to as the "Psalm of the Cross" because of its prophetic nature and its striking parallels to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The main message of Psalm 22 can be understood through its three distinct movements: the lament of abandonment, the plea for deliverance, and the declaration of praise and hope.
The psalm begins with a heart-wrenching cry of desolation: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1, ESV). This opening line is famously echoed by Jesus on the cross, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34). The sense of abandonment and deep distress is palpable as David describes his feelings of being forsaken by God. He feels isolated and surrounded by enemies, mocked and scorned by those around him. "All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; 'He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!'" (Psalm 22:7-8, ESV). This vivid imagery not only captures David's personal experience of suffering but also foreshadows the suffering of Christ.
Despite the overwhelming sense of abandonment, David does not lose faith. He recalls the faithfulness of God to his ancestors, acknowledging that God has been a refuge for those who trust in Him. "In you our fathers trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them. To you they cried and were rescued; in you they trusted and were not put to shame" (Psalm 22:4-5, ESV). This remembrance serves as a foundation for his plea for deliverance. David's faith remains steadfast even in the face of extreme adversity, exemplifying a deep trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and goodness.
As the psalm progresses, the tone shifts from lament to a fervent plea for help. David vividly describes his physical and emotional agony, painting a picture of utter helplessness. "I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax; it is melted within my breast; my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death" (Psalm 22:14-15, ESV). This graphic depiction of suffering resonates deeply with the crucifixion narrative, where Jesus endures immense physical and spiritual torment.
In the midst of his suffering, David's plea for deliverance becomes more urgent. He calls upon God to come quickly to his aid, to rescue him from the jaws of death. "But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid! Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog! Save me from the mouth of the lion!" (Psalm 22:19-21, ESV). This desperate cry for salvation underscores the depth of David's reliance on God, even when all seems lost.
The turning point of the psalm occurs in verse 21, where David's plea is met with divine intervention. The tone shifts dramatically from despair to hope and praise. "You have rescued me from the horns of the wild oxen!" (Psalm 22:21, ESV). This declaration of deliverance marks a significant transition in the psalm, as David moves from a place of suffering to a place of profound gratitude and worship.
In the final section of the psalm, David's focus shifts from his personal deliverance to a broader proclamation of God's faithfulness and sovereignty. He vows to declare God's name to his brethren and to praise Him in the assembly. "I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you" (Psalm 22:22, ESV). This public declaration of God's goodness serves as a testimony to others, encouraging them to trust in the Lord.
David's vision extends beyond his immediate circumstances, as he envisions a future where all nations will worship God. "All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you. For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations" (Psalm 22:27-28, ESV). This prophetic vision of universal worship underscores the psalm's ultimate message of hope and redemption. It points to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, whose suffering and triumph bring salvation to all people.
Psalm 22 concludes with a note of triumph and assurance. David expresses confidence that future generations will continue to proclaim God's righteousness and deliverance. "Posterity shall serve him; it shall be told of the Lord to the coming generation; they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn, that he has done it" (Psalm 22:30-31, ESV). This forward-looking perspective reinforces the enduring nature of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His salvation.
In summary, the main message of Psalm 22 is one of profound faith and hope in the midst of suffering. It captures the raw emotions of abandonment and anguish, yet it also highlights the unwavering trust in God's deliverance and the ultimate triumph of His redemptive plan. The psalm's prophetic elements point to the suffering and victory of Jesus Christ, offering a powerful reminder of God's steadfast love and faithfulness. Through its vivid imagery and heartfelt expressions, Psalm 22 encourages believers to hold fast to their faith, even in the darkest of times, and to proclaim God's goodness to all generations.
