Psalm 45

The overflowing heart (vs. 1)--This psalm is Messianic. Not only is part of it quoted in Hebrews 1, but, even though we are dealing with poetical language, the descriptions in this chapter could hardly apply to any man, poetry or not. The psalm opens with a prologue; the "inditing" of the KJV simply means "overflowing." And indeed, our hearts should overflow when we think of the glories of the Savior.

Various descriptions of the Messiah (vs. 2-9)--He is "fairer than the sons of men," whose lips (messages) are full of grace, and thus He is blessed forever by God (v. 2). He is mighty and majestic "because of truth, humility, and righteousness" (vs. 3-5). He is, indeed, God (v. 6), Who rules "forever and ever," with a "scepter of righteousness." This is the passage that is quoted in Hebrews 1:8-9 and applied to Jesus. Note that, contrary to Jehovah's Witnesses' doctrine, Christ is truly God. But in Psalm 45, we also get an interesting insight into the triune nature of deity: "Therefore God, your God, has anointed You" (v. 7). Jesus is God, yet in the scheme of redemption worked out in heaven, He is, in effect, "outranked" by the Father (cf. I Cor. 11:3). This, of course, is only a temporary arrangement designed for accomplishing the salvation of man. The Father sent the Son Who sent the Holy Spirit. There is no inequality or superiority here, any more than man is "superior" to woman. Different roles have been assigned to make various tasks easier and more efficient. This Messiah is "scented" with the most fragrant spices (v. 8), and worthy of praise by the highest and noblest (v. 9). The daughters of kings are His servants.

Exalt and worship Him (vs. 10-17)--The theme of verse 9 is expanded through much of the rest of the psalm. The "daughter" of verse 10 might be the "kings' daughters" of verse 9, though there is a plurality in verse 9 that is lacking in verse 10. Regardless, He is so exalted that the "daughter" is commanded to "forget your own people also, and your father's house." Our highest allegiance is to be to Him (Luke 14:26). He desires us, too, but we should "worship Him" (v. 11). Again, that language cannot apply to man, even poetically; only God is to be worshipped. As they should, the rich and the powerful honor Him in various ways (vs. 12-15). His "sons" shall be "princes in all the earth" (v. 16), and He will be remembered and praised "forever and ever" (v. 17). A beautiful psalm lauding the virtues and worthiness of Jesus, the Christ.