Psalms 82:6

Psalm 82:6 (KJV) is a profound verse often quoted and sometimes misunderstood, where God declares to certain individuals, "I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High." This statement comes from a psalm where God is depicted as presiding over a divine assembly, judging those in authority.

Context

Psalm 82 opens with God standing in the "congregation of the mighty" (or "divine council"), judging the "gods." The preceding verses (Psalm 82:1-5) clarify that these "gods" are not literal deities but corrupt human rulers, judges, or powerful authorities on earth. They are being rebuked for their failure to administer justice, defend the poor and fatherless, and show impartiality. God reminds them of their high calling and inherent dignity, even as He pronounces judgment upon their unrighteous actions.

Linguistic Insights

• "Ye are gods" (Hebrew: elohim): The Hebrew word elohim, while most often referring to the one true God, can also be used in a broader sense to refer to divine beings (like angels), or, as in this context, to human beings who hold positions of immense authority or power, acting as God's representatives on earth. They are "gods" in the sense that they represent divine authority and judgment to the people. This usage highlights the weighty responsibility entrusted to them.
• "children of the most High" (Hebrew: Elyon): Elyon is another majestic name for God, emphasizing His supreme sovereignty. To be called "children of the Most High" underscores that these rulers derive their authority from God Himself. It speaks to their elevated status and the divine origin of their delegated power, making their failure to uphold justice all the more egregious.

Key Themes and Messages

• Delegated Authority and Accountability: The verse powerfully conveys that all human authority, especially in matters of justice and governance, is ultimately delegated by God. Those who wield power are not autonomous but are accountable to the Supreme Judge for how they exercise that power.
• The High Calling of Humanity: Even in their fallen state, humans, particularly those in leadership, are reminded of their inherent dignity and high calling as those created in God's image and entrusted with significant responsibility.
• Divine Judgment on Unrighteous Rule: Despite being called "gods" and "children of the Most High," these rulers face condemnation for their injustice and corruption (Psalm 82:7). God's justice ultimately prevails over human failure.
• Jesus's Use of the Verse: This verse gained significant prominence when Jesus quoted it in John 10:34-36 to defend Himself against accusations of blasphemy. He argued that if the Scriptures call those to whom the word of God came "gods," how much more legitimate is it for Him, whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, to call Himself the Son of God? Jesus highlighted that if mere human judges could be called "gods" due to their delegated authority, His unique divine sonship was undeniable.

Practical Application

Psalm 82:6 serves as a timeless reminder for several aspects of life:

• For Leaders: Those in positions of power—whether in government, business, or ministry—are called to exercise their authority with integrity, fairness, and a deep commitment to justice, remembering that they are ultimately serving under the Most High God. Their actions have eternal consequences.
• For Every Individual: While the primary context is rulers, the verse also subtly affirms the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, as we are all, in a broader sense, "children of the Most High" by creation. This should inspire us to live lives that reflect God's character and purposes, striving for righteousness and advocating for the vulnerable.
• Seeking Justice: The psalm calls us to lament injustice and pray for righteous leadership, trusting that God will ultimately judge all unrighteousness and establish true justice on the earth.