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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 82, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [A Psalm of Asaph.] God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods. {of Asaph: or, for Asaph}
Psalms 82:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah.
Psalms 82:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. {Defend: Heb. Judge}
Psalms 82:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 Deliver the poor and needy: rid {them} out of the hand of the wicked.
Psalms 82:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course. {out...: Heb. moved}
Psalms 82:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 I have said, Ye {are} gods; and all of you {are} children of the most High.
Psalms 82:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.
Psalms 82:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
8 Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations.
Psalms 82:8 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.