[380] This is discussed more fully in an article in the Churchman, April, 1912, by the present writer.
We pass on now to another most remarkable prophecy; for this well-known Psalm describes what can only be regarded as a crucifixion. The decisive verse is of course, They pierced my hands and my feet; but even apart from this, the various sufferings described cannot all be endured in any other form of death, such as stoning or beheading. And the Psalm agrees with the Death of Christ, both in its numerous details, and in its whole scope and meaning. We will therefore consider this close agreement first, and then some of the objections.
(1.) Its close agreement.
We need not quote the Psalm, as it is so well known; but will point out the agreement verse by verse.
Ver. 1. His feeling forsaken by God, and using these actual words: 'My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?'
2. as well as praying for deliverance during the previous night;
3. though in spite of His sufferings, He casts no reproach upon God.
4. His belonging to God's chosen people, the Jews, so that He could speak of our fathers;
5. who had so often been helped by God before.
6. His pitiable condition in being exposed to the scorn and reproach of men, and despised by the people.