GOD’S MESSIAH
Psalm 110:1–7
Contemporary believers may have difficulty making the connection between Psalm 110 and the person and role of Christ.
The New Testament authors, such as the author of the Book of Hebrews, did not have such difficulty. Psalm 110 is a messianic prophecy describing the coming Messiah as David’s Lord, King and eternal High Priest.
In a discussion in Matthew 22 with the Pharisees regarding the Messiah, Jesus quoted Psalm 110. Jesus asked the Pharisees their opinion of the Messiah — “Whose son is he?” (v. 42). The Pharisees correctly answered that the Messiah was “the son of David.”
Jesus then asked, “How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him ‘Lord’?” Jesus then quotes Psalm 110:1.
Although brief, this may be the most important messianic psalm. It is quoted in the New Testament more than any other psalm.
Jesus as King (1–3)
The first verse gives a hint of the deity of Jesus. The first reference is to Yahweh, as indicated by all capital letters in most translations of Scripture: “This is the declaration of the LORD to my Lord.” God (Yahweh) commands the second Lord, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.”
This second Lord is sometimes interpreted to be King David. More often, however, the figure is seen as the Davidic King or Messiah, who is exalted by God and is the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people.
The rightful ruler of the realm was not King David but the coming Lord. “Lord” implies authority. The prophesied King would possess power and dominion. The enemies of this promised King will be trampled in defeat.
The scepter — a symbol of a king’s authority — will be instrumental in defeating the enemies. God’s people will volunteer for service to the King.
Jesus as Priest (4)
In Israel, the same person could not normally serve as king and priest. Melchizedek provided a biblical example of one man who held both roles. In the epistle to the Hebrews, the author connected the roles of Melchizedek and Jesus. Melchizedek was the king of Salem — the king of peace and priest of God Most High.
Since the Bible does not mention the parents of Melchizedek and he was without father, mother or genealogy, he resembled the Son of God in his priestly role forever. God chose our Lord the King to be our eternal High Priest.
Jesus as Victor (5–7)
Both the Old Testament and New Testament portray Jesus as King. Notice the description of the actions of this eternal Priest. He will crush kings, judge nations, crush world leaders and drink from a brook. He will “lift up His head,” which is a descriptive phrase of dignity, honor and exaltation. This psalm concludes with the end of the age and affirms the victory of our Messiah.
Psalm 110 was important to New Testament authors. The six New Testament passages that cite Psalm 110 all refer to Jesus’ exaltation between the Ascension and the Second Coming.
Since Jesus is our High Priest, we need to draw near to Him with our prayers.
By Mark Rathel
Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in DeFuniak Springs, Florida
