Psalm 82 is one of David’s psalms in the Bible, which suggests that God will do just justice and protect them from dealing with injustices. One of the interesting sentences of this psalm is the sentence “You are gods” which may make some readers question at first. In this article, we will examine the meaning and context of this sentence and why it is mentioned in Psalm 6:82.
Being encouraged, empowered and supported is something we all love.
We should surround ourselves with people who love us and want the best for us, and we should expect those people to give us encouraging words.
God is our model and he speaks to us with love and life. But does he only say positive things? In our emotional culture, we often shy away from the idea of God’s loving correction. In other words, we don’t like God telling us we’re wrong.
However, if we have friends and a community around us who love us, shouldn’t they address destructive behavior? Yes, with love, but doesn’t love include correction?
The Bible clearly states that parents and friends should hold each other accountable for what is right. Otherwise, we destroy ourselves and others. As God’s love refines us, we must do the same to one another.
Psalm 82:6 contains a mysterious phrase: “You are gods”. Jesus Christ also mentions this phrase in one of his teachings.
What does God want to say through this phrase? Is he positive and encouraging? Perhaps in his love, he has a deeper purpose by saying, “You are gods.”
The historical and biblical background of Psalm 6:82
The phrase “you are gods” is at the center of Psalm 82. Psalm 82 was written by Asaph, whose name is attributed to Psalm 12 in the Book of Psalms.
Historical context:
The era of King David: King David established the worship of God and the ark of the covenant in a separate tent outside Jerusalem, called “David’s Tent”. Part of this worship was constant praise before the ark of God’s covenant.
The role of Asaph: According to 1 Chronicles 6:39, King David appointed Haman as the main musician and singer and Asaph, along with Moses of Meravi, as his main assistants. 2 Chronicles 5:12 credits Asaph with leading the praise and worship at the dedication of Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem.
Asaph’s Training: Asaph was trained through King David’s revolutionary new system of praise and worship in Jerusalem and became the leader after Solomon built the new temple.
Biblical context:
The beginning of Psalm 82: Psalm 82 introduces God as the one who stands in the midst of a group of mighty ones, His gate in heaven, and God judges among them “Elohim” (plural for divine beings such as angels).
The psalmist’s question: Then Asaf asks the audience a question: “How long will you judge with deviation and oppression in your judgments?”
Judges of Israel: Judges of Israel were a system of tribal leadership throughout the nation, men who helped settle disputes between those under their care according to God’s law. They were supposed to judge with justice and fairness, not with corruption or discrimination.
The psalm’s instructions: The psalm continues to provide clear instructions about justice for the nation of Israel, especially the judges and leaders. They should have defended the poor and the orphan, given justice to the needy, and freed the oppressed from the hands of the wicked.
What “Ye are Gods” means to Christians today
While the original meaning of the phrase “you are gods” in Psalm 6:82 refers to divine judges or rulers, its relevance goes beyond the ancient historical setting and provides valuable insight for us in today’s world as well.
1. Identity as children of God:
The phrase “you are gods” emphasizes the biblical teaching that we are God’s children, especially in the New Testament. Jesus Christ emphasizes this truth in the New Testament by referring to himself as the Son of God and by offering believers the opportunity to become children of God through faith in him.
Realizing that we are spiritually connected to God as His children highlights our unique identity, relationship, and heritage as part of His family.
2. Reflecting the image of God:
This phrase also reflects the concept of being created in the image and likeness of God. Just as the judges in the past were supposed to represent divine justice on earth, we as disciples of Jesus are called to reflect God’s character, love, and justice in our lives.
This teaching emphasizes the importance of living a moral and virtuous life, as well as embodying Christ-like qualities in our interactions with others.
3. Responsibility and spiritual authority:
While we may not have divine authority in the same sense as the ancient judges, we do have spiritual authority through Christ. This authority includes the power to overcome sin, darkness, and spiritual opposition.
It also entails responsibility to share the message of salvation, to bring healing and to contribute to the advancement of God’s kingdom on earth. We must do this with honesty and vigilance, realizing the importance and seriousness of our calling as ministers of God’s reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11-21).
important points:
The phrase “you are gods” in Psalm 82:6 refers to divine judges.
In the New Testament, we are known as children of God.
We are also made in the image and likeness of God.
We have spiritual authority and responsibility to reflect God’s character and message.
Today in the article : Why Does Psalm 82:6 Say ‘Ye Are Gods’? We reviewed useful information about the Bible and the way of Jesus. If you wish, you can view other articles of Ali Vahidi about Christianity
