By Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

Read: Psalm 22:1-31

“I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.” (Psalm 22:22)

By Rev. Ron Purkey

There are three familiar and beloved psalms that present Jesus Christ as the Shepherd, each one emphasizing a different aspect of his person and his work. Psalm 22 pictures the Good Shepherd dying for the sheep (John 10:11); Psalm 23 the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep (Hebrews 13:20-21); and Psalm 24 the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep (1 Peter 5:4). In other words, Christ died for us (past), Christ lives for us (present), and Christ will come for us (future). There will be a second coming, and we will all be accountble for our life.

First, Christ is the Good Shepherd (Psalm 22:1-21). This psalm presents the crucifixion of Christ in verses 1-21 and his resurrection in verses 22-31. Since the Jews did not know of crucifixion back in David’s time, this vivid description of Christ’s death on the cross could only have been penned by inspiration of the Spirit. It is interesting to contrast the two sections of this psalm. In verses 1-21 we see Christ’s suffering and crucifixion, while in verses 22-31 we see his glory and resurrection. The first passage depicts pain and prayer; the second passage depicts praise and promise. And the first shows Christ in the midst of his enemies; the second, Christ in the midst of the church.

It is not difficult to see the fulfillment of this chapter in the New Testament story of the cross: Verse 1 — Christ spoke these words — (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). Verse 2 — Alternate light and darkness (Matthew 27:45). Verses 6-8) — The reproach of the people (Matthew 27:39-44). Verses 11-12 — No help was offered Him (Matthew. 26:56). Verse 16 — His hands and feet pierced (Matthew 27:35). Verse 17 — People staring at him (Luke 23:35). Verse 18 — Gambling for his garments (John 19:23-24)

Second, Christ is the Risen Savior (Psalm 22: 22-31). The scene changes, and we move into resurrection. See Hebrews 2:11-12 for the New Testament explanation of this. Jesus Christ is no longer on the cross; He is in the midst of his brethren (the church) declaring the glory of God. Verse 24 must be read in connection with Hebrews 5:7. This final section is filled with praise: in the church (verse 22), in Israel (verses 23-26), and among the Gentiles (verses 27-31). Verse 31 (NKJV) ends, “He has done this,” paralleling Jesus’ words, “It is finished.” Because of Jesus Christ’s work on the cross, salvation has been accomplished and all who come to Him by faith will have their sins forgiven.

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines at www.rcpbibleoutlines.com free on the website. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.