Thursday 22 October 2026

Psalm 2:1-8

Background
Over the last few days we have seen the need for some humility before Scripture, so we work first on how it challenges us, before challenging others.

Today, verse 7 gives a different need for humility. A footnote reads 'Meaning of Greek uncertain'. Many scholars have dedicated their lives to give us the very best Bible texts and translations yet in a few cases, after all that work, they need a footnote like this. Having worked with Bible translators I believe that the best modern translations are incredibly accurate and reliable but even then it is good to be reminded that some humility is a good thing when we start making claims about exactly what a text means and how it applies (especially to other people). This is key to why we relate a passage to other parts of Scripture that support or particularly challenge our interpretation of it.

Verse 10 says that we have been sanctified. It can connect us with a wide range of Scripture around the theme of atonement (how we are made 'at one' with God - here referred to as being sanctified).

First we see a reminder that atonement is by God's will. God has acted through Jesus to resolve the separation caused by our sin. We can claim no credit. We often try to claim that we are special or faithful, rather than accepting that atonement is by God's grace – see Ephesians 2:8-9.

Secondly, we see that atonement happens through the 'offering of the body of Jesus Christ'. While we are confident that Jesus has brought us back to God (atoned for us), the way it happens is still not fully understood. There are multiple theories of atonement which try to explain this and they all have scriptural support. So we need some humility in recognising that 'offering' (which fits particularly with the letter to the Hebrews) is one understanding among several of how Christ sanctified us.

Thirdly, we see that Jesus' death atoned for us – once and for all. Nothing further is needed for anyone. The wonder and joy of this is the confidence that it's an offer that includes even us, who have no special entitlement.

To Ponder:

• How do you feel about certainty that there is atonement, coupled with uncertainly about the means by which Jesus atoned for us? Why?
• Do you agree that Jesus' atonement for us, 'once and for all', has the potential to be unifying and inclusive across all human diversity? How might we build on that?

Bible notes author: The Revd Dave Warnock
Dave is a Methodist minister without an appointment. After much DIY, he and his wife Jane have now launched their 1977 sailing boat and are building up to sailing around the world as sustainably as possible. Their intention is to model sustainable living and help encourage connections between sustainability and faith. They also want to see sailing have a positive impact on vulnerable coastal communities. For more information, see their blog and YouTube channel