Why do heathen nations rage? Why vain things do people mind?

Verse 1

Why do heathen nations rage? Why vain things do people mind? Kings of earth in plots engage, Rulers are in league combined.

Verse 2

Thus against the Lord they speak, Thus against His Christ they say, "Let us join their bands to break, Let us cast their cords away."

Verse 3

He shall laugh who sits above, God Most High shall scorn them all; Them in anger fierce reprove; Burning wrath shall on them fall.

Verse 4

"Yet according to My will, Have I set My King to reign; Him on Zion’s holy hill, My Anointed I’ll maintain."

Verse 5

Thus hath said the Lord Most High, "I will publish the decree; Thee I own My Son, for I Have this day begotten Thee.

Verse 6

"Ask, for heritage I’ll make All the heathen nations Thine; Thou shalt in possession take Earth to its remotest line.

Verse 7

"Let Thy rod of iron fall; Break them with Thy scepter’s sway; Dash them into pieces small, Like the potter’s brittle clay."

Verse 8

Therefore, kings, be wise, give ear; Hearken, judges of the earth; Learn to serve the Lord with fear, Mingle trembling with your mirth.

Verse 9

Fear His wrath, and kiss the Son, Lest ye perish from the way, When His wrath is but begun, Blest are all that on Him stay.