Psalm 110
Psalm 110 is a royal psalm that prophetically describes the reign of the Messiah as both King and Priest. It reflects on the authority given to the Messiah by God and highlights the combination of kingship and priesthood in His role. This psalm is often quoted in the New Testament, affirming Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy.
Psalm 110:1 (NKJV)
1 The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at My right hand,
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.”
The psalm begins with God addressing the Messiah, who David refers to as “my Lord.” It reveals a divine conversation in which the Messiah is invited to sit at God’s right hand, a position of authority. This verse points to the future triumph of the Messiah, who will reign until His enemies are subdued under His feet. The New Testament identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy (Matthew 22:44; Acts 2:34-35).
Psalm 110:2 (NKJV)
2 The Lord shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion.
Rule in the midst of Your enemies!
This verse emphasizes the Messiah's strength and authority, symbolized by the “rod” or scepter that will go forth from Zion, the seat of God’s kingdom. Despite opposition, the Messiah is declared to rule in the presence of His enemies, showing His dominion will extend even over hostile forces.
Psalm 110:3 (NKJV)
3 Your people shall be volunteers
In the day of Your power;
In the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning,
You have the dew of Your youth.
The Messiah’s followers will willingly align with Him in His reign, reflecting their devotion and readiness. The poetic imagery of the "womb of the morning" and "dew of Your youth" suggests freshness, vitality, and strength that will characterize His reign. The people of God are depicted as holy and radiant in service to their King.
Psalm 110:4 (NKJV)
4 The Lord has sworn
And will not relent,
“You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek.”
This verse announces the Messiah’s role not only as King but also as an eternal Priest. The reference to Melchizedek, a priest-king from Genesis 14, emphasizes the uniqueness of the Messiah’s priesthood, which transcends the Levitical order. The New Testament relates this to Jesus, highlighting His everlasting priesthood (Hebrews 7:17).
Psalm 110:5-7 (NKJV)
5 The Lord is at Your right hand;
He shall execute kings in the day of His wrath.
6 He shall judge among the nations,
He shall fill the places with dead bodies,
He shall execute the heads of many countries.
7 He shall drink of the brook by the wayside;
Therefore He shall lift up the head.
These verses describe the Messiah’s victory over opposing nations. In the day of His judgment, He will bring justice to the world, defeating rulers and nations that oppose God. The imagery of drinking from the brook suggests refreshment and triumph, symbolizing that the Messiah will remain strong and victorious, lifting His head in celebration of His conquest.