Psalms Index
  Previous  Next 

Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible, by John Wesley, [1754-65], at sacred-texts.com


Psalms Chapter 82

Psalms 82:1

psa 82:1

Standeth - To observe all that is said or done there. Mighty - Kings or chief rulers. By their congregation he understands all persons whatsoever of this high and sacred order. Judgeth - Passes sentence upon them. The gods - Judges and magistrates are called gods, because they have their commission from God, and act as his deputies.

Psalms 82:2

psa 82:2

How long - The psalmist speaks to them in God's name. Accept - By giving sentence according to your respect or affection to the person.

Psalms 82:5

psa 82:5

They - The magistrates of whom this psalm treats. Know not - The duty of their place. Nor will - Their ignorance is wilful. Walk on - They persist: it is their constant course. In darkness - In their sinful courses. The foundations - This corruption of the supreme rulers, flows from them to their inferior officers and members.

Psalms 82:6

psa 82:6

Have said - I have given you my name and power to rule your people in my stead. All - Not only the rulers of Israel, but of all other nations. Children - Representing my person, and bearing both my name and authority.

Psalms 82:7

psa 82:7

Like men - Or, like ordinary men.

Psalms 82:8

psa 82:8

Arise - Take the sword of justice into thine own hand.


Next: Psalms Chapter 83