4/30/19
Augustine. Exposition on the Book of Psalms. Schaff, Philip (editor). New York: Christian Literature Publishing Col, 1886. Nicene and Post-Nicene Church Fathers: Series 1: Volume VIII. Re-published 2014, Catholic Way Publishing. Kindle electronic edition, ISBN-13: 978-1-78379-372-3.
“Psalm 21”
Augustine introduces this as a Psalm “of Christ” (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320487). He views the “strength” in verse one to be the Christ, in whom the king would rejoice. His desire, that is, the Christ’s desire, was accomplished (v. 2), in that he ate the Passover, laid down his life, and took it up again (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320494). In verse three he is corwned with blessings, including his disciples. Verse four speaks of the eternity of the risen Christ. Verse five speaks of his glory, held at the Father’s right hand in heaven (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320500). Augustine continues to comment on each verse’s application to Christ as the king. He is blessed in God’s presence (v. 6), humble and trusting in the Father (v. 7), even during the time of his crucifixion and resurrection (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320506). When Christ comes in judgment, described in verse eight, Augustine points to the punishment of his enemies, who he says will burn with “the consciousness of their ungodliness” until they are devoured by eternal fire (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320512). Augustine points out that verses 10-12 also speak of the Lord’s judgment. He will separate his enemies and their offspring from his blessings, because they all planned evil against him, an evil Augustine sees as the plan to have him put to death (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320519).
In the end, with all his honor, the Lord and King whom Augustine recognizes as Jesus, is exalted as he has shown himself to be the great and powerful Lord (Augustine Psalms, loc. 320525).