What does Psalm 2:12 mean?

The psalmist, David (Acts 4:25), continues his counsel to the kings and rulers by telling them to kiss the Son to avert His anger. This contrasts with their plans to defy God (Psalm 2:1–6).

"Kiss" suggests homage. When Elijah was depressed in the desert and feeling that he was the only one who worshiped the Lord, the Lord told him, "Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him" (1 Kings 19:18). In biblical times a kiss on the cheek was an expression of friendship. Judas, the betrayer of Jesus, feigned friendship with Jesus by kissing him (Matthew 26:47–49). In 1 Thessalonians 5:26, Paul commanded the Christians to "greet all the brothers with a holy kiss." Today, at least in Western cultures, a firm handshake and/or a hug is an equivalent sign of friendliness.

This psalm makes it clear that failure to establish a friendly relationship with the Anointed One brings about His anger and wrath that results in damnation (John 3:36). Revelation 20:10–15 reveals that this fate involves being cast into the lake of fire. However, those who "kiss the Son" are blessed and protected by Him (John 3:16–18). This is a summary of the gospel message: that we can be saved only through faith in Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 16:31).