Psalm 82: Defend the Poor and Orphans

Introduction: Psalm 82, a psalm of Asaph, is a divine revelation that presents God as the supreme Judge presiding over a divine council. The psalmist calls for justice in the world, rebuking the gods or judges for their corruption. The psalm ends with an appeal to God, the true and just ruler, to rise and govern all nations. This study aims to explore the theological implications of Psalm 82, utilizing cross-reference verses from the Bible.

I. The Divine Council (Psalm 82:1)

Psalm 82:1 introduces a divine council in which God presides. “God presides in the great assembly; he renders judgment among the gods.” This verse presents a scene where God stands in judgment over other gods or rulers of the earth. This may be interpreted literarily as God judging the divine beings, or metaphorically as God judging human rulers (Exodus 22:9, 28; John 10:34-35). This verse also reaffirms the sovereignty and supreme authority of God (Psalm 95:3; Isaiah 45:5-6; 1 Corinthians 8:5-6).

II. The Judgment on Unjust Rulers (Psalm 82:2-4)

In verses 2 through 4, God rebukes these gods or rulers for their failure to uphold justice. They favor the wicked (Psalm 82:2), neglect the poor, fatherless, and destitute (Psalm 82:3), and fail to rescue the weak and needy (Psalm 82:4). These verses underscore the biblical mandate to fight against injustice and protect the weak and oppressed (Isaiah 1:17; Proverbs 31:9, Micah 6:8).

III. The Consequences of Injustice (Psalm 82:5-7)

Verses 5 through 7 pronounce judgment upon the ignorant and corrupt rulers. Because they lack knowledge and understanding (Psalm 82:5), their actions destabilize the foundations of the earth. Their divine status and authority won’t exempt them from death (Psalm 82:6-7). These verses echo the biblical principle that sin and corruption lead to spiritual and physical death (Ezekiel 18:4; Romans 6:23).

IV. The Appeal for Divine Intervention (Psalm 82:8)

In the final verse, the psalmist appeals to God to rise and judge the earth, for all nations are His inheritance (Psalm 82:8). This verse reflects the ultimate hope of the righteous: that God will eventually bring His perfect justice to the world (Psalm 96:13; Isaiah 2:4; Revelation 19:11).

Conclusion: Psalm 82 presents a divine revelation in which God stands as the ultimate Judge presiding over a divine council. The psalmist rebukes the unjust rulers, highlighting the consequences of their injustice, and ends with a hopeful appeal to God to bring His justice to the nations. This psalm serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His heart for justice, and a call to every believer to uphold righteousness and justice in their spheres of influence.