But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.
Kings blinded by pride claim boundless liberty, but they must answer to the Supreme Judge who sits above them all. The Psalmist first reminds them of their duty, then, seeing they will not hear, calls on God Himself to vindicate His righteous judgment.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 82:1-8
But ye shall die like men. What sarcasm it seems! Great as the office made the men, they were still but men, and must die. To every judge this verse is a memento mori! He must leave the bench to stand at the bar, and on the way must put off the ermine to put on the shroud. And fall like one of the princes.
God gave magistrates the title of gods and made them His agents for justice; yet pride so easily puffs up a man with such honour that he forgets himself. How hard it is to bear exaltation without falling into the conceit that lifts him above his measure.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 82:6-8