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Lutheran Lens Commentary: Psalm 46:8-11

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Lutheran Lens Reading of Psalm 46:8-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Psalm 46:8-11 through the lens of Law and Gospel, recognizing both God's sovereignty over creation (Law) and His promise of peace through Christ (Gospel). In this passage, the call to 'be still and know that I am God' is an invitation to rest in the Gospel promise, knowing that our salvation is accomplished by Christ alone. The imagery of God making wars cease points us to the ultimate peace brought by Christ's victory over sin and death. This text is Christological, anticipating the final reconciliation of the world through the cross.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew word 'רָפָה' (raphah) in verse 10, often translated as 'be still,' carries the sense of 'cease striving' or 'relax.' In our tradition, this supports the understanding of resting in God's finished work, emphasizing the Gospel promise of peace. The phrase 'I will be exalted' reflects God's sovereign action, underscoring the Law's demand for recognition of His authority. Our tradition emphasizes the assurance found in God's declaration, not in human effort.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that may emphasize God's sovereignty in a deterministic sense, we focus on the assurance of the Gospel, where God’s sovereignty is exercised for our salvation through Christ. Pentecostal and charismatic traditions might read the 'be still' command as a call for personal spiritual experiences, whereas we see it as an assurance of God's redemptive action in Christ.

Pastoral Application

A Lutheran Lens pastor should emphasize the comfort and assurance of God's promise in Christ when preaching this passage. The congregation should be reminded that their peace and stillness come not from their efforts but from resting in the finished work of Christ. Highlight the reality of simul justus et peccator, encouraging believers that despite their ongoing struggle with sin, they are fully justified in Christ. The call to 'be still' is an invitation to trust in the means of grace as the means by which God delivers His peace and presence to us.

Cross-References: Isaiah 2:4; Matthew 11:28-30; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:14-18; Colossians 1:19-20

Doctrinal Connections: Law and Gospel; theology of the cross; justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; Christ's victory over sin

Topics & Themes

Law and Gospeltheology of the crossjustification by faith alonesimul justus et peccatorChrist's victory over sin

Scripture References

Psalm 46:8-11

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