Overview

Psalm 110 is a Messianic psalm, regarded as one of the most significant prophetic texts in the Hebrew Scriptures. It presents a divine king, enthroned at the right hand of God, who will rule over His enemies and establish a kingdom of justice and peace. This chapter is a declaration of God’s ultimate sovereignty and the role of the Messiah, highlighting the kingly and priestly ministry of Christ, as well as the eternal nature of His reign. The chapter’s theological significance lies in its clear foreshadowing of Jesus Christ’s role as both the King and Priest, demonstrating His central role in the redemptive plan of God. Psalm 110 also provides insight into God’s justice, His dominion over the world, and His plan for ultimate victory over evil. It is often cited in the New Testament, particularly by Jesus and the apostles, as a direct prophecy of Christ’s ascension and enthronement.

Historical and Literary Context

Psalm 110 is attributed to David, making it part of the royal psalms that celebrate the kingship of Israel. This psalm stands as a declaration of God’s covenantal promises to the Davidic line and God’s plan for a future Messiah who would reign as a king in righteousness. The psalm is written in a prophetic style, where David speaks of a future event in a present-tense tone, as though it has already occurred. The psalm begins with an oracle of God to His chosen king, and it presents a vision of a king sitting at God’s right hand, waiting for His enemies to be made His footstool. The psalm also reveals a unique combination of royal and priestly themes, describing the Messiah as a priest “after the order of Melchizedek,” a mysterious figure introduced in Genesis 14.

This chapter has profound theological implications, particularly in the context of Israel’s expectation of a king from David’s line who would restore Israel’s fortunes and rule over all nations. Psalm 110 was not only significant in the Old Testament but also in the New Testament, as it is frequently quoted, most notably in Matthew 22, Acts 2, and Hebrews 5-7, to affirm the identity and authority of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of this prophecy.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

God’s Sovereignty

Psalm 110 reinforces the theme of God’s sovereignty over all creation. God’s declaration to David’s greater descendant, the Messiah, reveals that He is the ultimate ruler who holds dominion over all things. The Messiah’s reign will be established not by human strength but by God’s direct intervention and authority. This is crucial in understanding God’s eternal plan of redemption, where the reign of Christ will establish justice and peace, not just for Israel but for all the earth.

The Priest-King Figure

The chapter introduces the concept of a priest-king, with the Messiah being both a king and a priest “after the order of Melchizedek.” This dual role was unprecedented in Jewish tradition, where kings and priests were distinct offices. The Messiah’s priesthood is not based on genealogy or human authority but on a divine calling from God. This theme is significant for understanding the uniqueness of Christ’s ministry. He is not only the sovereign ruler of all creation but also the one who intercedes for humanity as the perfect high priest.

Christ’s Role as the Ultimate Judge

Psalm 110 speaks of the Messiah’s judgment upon the nations and His ultimate victory over His enemies. This connects to the broader biblical teaching on the final judgment when Christ, as King and Judge, will reign with righteousness and execute judgment over all evil. The judgment of God is a key theme in the Bible and highlights His justice, holiness, and the certainty that all sin will be dealt with according to God’s perfect standards.

The Eternal Reign of the Messiah

The chapter points to the eternal reign of Christ. His throne will be established forever, and He will sit at the right hand of God. This aspect is important for understanding Christ’s eternal priesthood and kingship. Jesus is not a temporary or earthly ruler but reigns eternally with all authority, seated at God’s right hand, until all His enemies are put under His feet.

The Victory of Christ

Psalm 110 also speaks of the Messiah’s triumph over His enemies. His reign will result in the subjugation of all opposition. This theme ties directly to the biblical hope of Christ’s second coming, when He will fully and finally defeat evil. The victory of Christ is a central hope for Christians, offering both present encouragement and future assurance that God’s purposes will be fulfilled.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis 

Verse 1: “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'”

This verse begins with a divine oracle from the Lord (God the Father) to David’s Lord (the Messiah). The phrase “Sit at my right hand” is highly significant as it implies the position of power and authority in the ancient world. In the New Testament, this is frequently understood as a reference to Christ’s ascension to heaven where He is seated at the right hand of the Father, a position of ultimate authority and dominion (see Acts 2:34-36, Colossians 3:1, Hebrews 1:3). Jesus Himself quotes this verse in Matthew 22:44 to demonstrate that He is the Messiah, the fulfillment of this prophecy.

The phrase “until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet” indicates the eventual defeat of Christ’s enemies. In the ancient world, placing one’s feet on the neck of an enemy symbolized complete victory and subjugation. This points to the future judgment of Christ, when all opposition to His reign will be defeated (1 Corinthians 15:25-26, Revelation 19:11-16). For believers, this is a source of hope and assurance that evil will ultimately be vanquished and that Christ will reign in triumph.

Doctrinal Insight: This verse highlights the exaltation of Christ to the right hand of God and underscores His position as both King and Judge. It is essential to recognize that Christ’s current reign is both a present spiritual reality and a future physical event when He will fully subdue all His enemies.

Application: For Christians today, this verse reminds us that Jesus is not distant or inactive but is actively ruling at God’s right hand. This should encourage believers to trust in His sovereignty, knowing that all opposition to God’s kingdom will ultimately be defeated. It calls for perseverance in faith, knowing that our Lord reigns, and His victory is assured.

Verse 2: “The Lord will extend your mighty scepter from Zion, saying, ‘Rule in the midst of your enemies.'”

In this verse, the Lord promises to extend the Messiah’s scepter—a symbol of authority and kingship—from Zion, the city of God. The scepter being extended speaks to the ongoing nature of Christ’s reign. While Jesus is already enthroned in heaven, this verse points to the time when His rule will be made manifest in the world, especially during the millennial reign. The phrase “rule in the midst of your enemies” suggests that, even though Christ rules, His enemies are still present. This acknowledges the reality of spiritual warfare on earth and the eventual victory that Christ will establish over all opposition.

Doctrinal Insight: This verse speaks to the present and future nature of Christ’s rule. His kingdom is already established spiritually but will one day be established fully and visibly on earth. It also speaks of the Church’s role in advancing the kingdom in the present age, even while facing opposition.

Application: This verse encourages believers that, although they may face opposition and trials, Christ’s rule is unstoppable. It calls us to remain faithful in proclaiming the kingdom of God, knowing that Christ is ultimately in control and will bring about His perfect reign.

Verse 3: “Your troops will be willing on the day of battle. Arrayed in holy splendor, your young men will come to you like dew from the morning’s womb.”

This verse describes the Messiah’s followers—those who will assist Him in His conquest and rule. The “troops” refer to the people of God who, on the day of battle, are described as being willing and ready to serve. This symbolizes the voluntary and eager obedience of Christ’s followers in advancing His kingdom. They are “arrayed in holy splendor,” indicating that their service is sanctified and righteous. The imagery of “dew from the morning’s womb” suggests freshness, vitality, and life, highlighting the spiritual regeneration of God’s people as they align with His purposes.

Doctrinal Insight: This speaks to the vitality and holiness of the Church in the last days. The followers of Christ are described not just as subjects in His kingdom but as active, willing participants in the battle against evil. Their service is marked by holiness and devotion.

Application: Christians are called to actively participate in God’s kingdom work, willingly and with joy, as we anticipate Christ’s victory. This calls for personal commitment to holiness and a readiness to serve, even amid spiritual battles, knowing that our work is pleasing to God.

Verse 4: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: ‘You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.'”

This verse is one of the most significant in the psalm, as it introduces the unique priesthood of the Messiah. The Messiah is not only a king but also a priest, and His priesthood is eternal. The phrase “in the order of Melchizedek” is a direct reference to a mysterious figure from Genesis 14, who was both a king and a priest. The priesthood of Melchizedek is distinct from the Levitical priesthood, as it was not based on lineage but on divine appointment.

Doctrinal Insight: The eternal nature of the Messiah’s priesthood highlights that, unlike the Levitical priests, whose service was temporary and imperfect, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal and perfect. This is emphasized in Hebrews 7, where the author shows that Jesus’ priesthood, like Melchizedek’s, is not based on human lineage but is established by God’s oath. Jesus is both the perfect sacrifice and the perfect high priest who intercedes for His people.

Application: This verse assures believers that Jesus’ work as our high priest is permanent and complete. We no longer need to seek out priests or sacrifices for atonement; Jesus has done it all. His intercession on our behalf is constant, and we can approach God confidently through Him. Christians are encouraged to live in the freedom and peace that comes from Christ’s eternal priesthood.

Verse 5-6: “The Lord is at your right hand; he will crush kings on the day of his wrath. He will judge the nations, heaping up the dead and crushing the rulers of the earth.”

These verses describe the judgment of the Messiah. While Christ is seated at the right hand of God, He will one day rise in wrath to defeat His enemies. The imagery of crushing kings and rulers speaks to the final and decisive victory over all evil authorities, and the judgment of the nations is the fulfillment of God’s justice. The “day of His wrath” refers to the eschatological judgment, when Christ will return to establish His kingdom fully and bring justice.

Doctrinal Insight: The judgment of God is a crucial aspect of biblical theology, affirming that God will bring about justice in His perfect time. This judgment is not only punitive but also redemptive, as it makes way for the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.

Application: For Christians, this passage is a reminder that God’s justice will prevail, even when evil seems to triumph in the world. It calls believers to trust in God’s timing and to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that Christ will return to make all things right.

Verse 7: “He will drink from a brook along the way, and so he will lift his head high.”

The final verse of the psalm describes the Messiah in a humble and victorious posture. Despite the wrath He will bring upon His enemies, the Messiah is portrayed as someone who still relies on God, symbolized by drinking from the brook. This verse speaks to the humility of Christ in His earthly ministry and His complete dependence on the Father.

Doctrinal Insight: Christ’s humility is a significant aspect of His character, especially in His first coming, where He humbled Himself to serve humanity (Philippians 2:6-8). Yet, His ultimate victory and exaltation are assured. This verse underscores the paradox of the Kingdom of God—Christ’s humility precedes His glory.

Application: Christians are called to emulate Christ’s humility and reliance on God. This verse reminds believers that true strength comes from God, and our ultimate victory is assured as we trust in Him.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Psalm 110 is one of the most important messianic psalms, directly pointing to the person and work of Jesus Christ. The psalm begins with a prophetic declaration from God the Father to His Son, the Messiah, “Sit at my right hand.” This phrase is rich with significance, marking Jesus’ exaltation to a position of ultimate authority and power. Jesus Himself references this verse in Matthew 22:44 to establish His identity as the Messiah. It demonstrates that the Messiah, who is Jesus, would reign from the right hand of God, ruling over all creation and exercising divine authority. His kingship is not just an earthly reign but a heavenly one, demonstrating His authority over both the spiritual and physical realms.

Moreover, the chapter highlights Jesus’ eternal priesthood, not in the Levitical order, but in the order of Melchizedek. This connection points to Jesus’ role as the eternal high priest, who mediates between God and humanity. Hebrews 7 makes this connection explicit, explaining that Jesus’ priesthood is unique and everlasting, unlike the temporary and imperfect Levitical priesthood. His work as high priest culminates in the atonement He accomplished on the cross, where He offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sins. The psalm’s reference to the Messiah’s eternal priesthood underscores the sufficiency of Jesus’ sacrifice and His ongoing intercession for believers.

Finally, Psalm 110 speaks of the Messiah’s ultimate victory over His enemies. The “day of wrath” refers to the final judgment when Christ will defeat all opposition to His kingdom. This is a central part of the broader redemptive narrative in the Bible. Jesus’ first coming was marked by humility and sacrifice, but His second coming will be characterized by power and judgment, as He defeats all His enemies and establishes His eternal reign. This will bring fulfillment to God’s promise of ultimate justice and peace.

Connection to the Father

Psalm 110 is a clear expression of the intimate relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ, His Son. The psalm begins with God the Father speaking to the Son, saying, “Sit at my right hand.” This speaks to the authority and unity between the Father and the Son, with the Father giving Jesus a place of supreme honor and authority in His kingdom. The Father’s will is central to the psalm’s message, as it is through the Father’s divine decree that Jesus is established as both King and Priest.

The Father’s role in Psalm 110 extends to His judgment over the enemies of Christ. In verse 5, we see the Father’s wrath poured out upon those who oppose His Son’s reign. This divine judgment, although feared by the enemies, is a reflection of the Father’s justice and righteousness. The victory that Christ will achieve is part of the Father’s perfect plan to restore all things and make them right. The Father’s love for the Son is demonstrated in His enthronement and His promise to subdue all enemies.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Though the Holy Spirit is not explicitly mentioned in Psalm 110, the Spirit’s work is crucial in understanding the psalm’s broader implications for redemption. The Holy Spirit plays a significant role in the life of the Messiah, empowering Him for His mission and ministry. In the New Testament, we see that Jesus was anointed with the Spirit at His baptism (Matthew 3:16) and filled with the Spirit throughout His earthly ministry. The Spirit enabled Jesus to perform miracles, preach with power, and ultimately endure the cross. The Spirit also raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 8:11), securing His victory over sin, death, and the grave.

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit is involved in the ongoing work of Christ in the world today. Jesus, as the risen Lord, sends the Holy Spirit to indwell believers, empowering them for service, guiding them into truth, and conforming them into His image. The Spirit also points believers to the victory of Christ, helping them understand and experience the fullness of His redemption. The Spirit’s presence in the world today is a reminder that Jesus’ reign continues, and His kingdom is advancing, even as we await His return.

Connection to God’s Love

Psalm 110 reveals the depth of God’s love for humanity through His provision of a Savior who is both King and Priest. In the Old Testament, the people of God longed for a righteous ruler who would bring peace and justice, and a priest who would intercede for them. Psalm 110 shows that God, in His love, has provided these in the person of Jesus Christ. Through His perfect kingship, Jesus brings order and righteousness, while through His eternal priesthood, He offers forgiveness and reconciliation.

God’s love is further demonstrated in the fact that Jesus’ reign will be one of righteousness and justice. While the world often seems filled with injustice and suffering, Psalm 110 assures believers that Christ will ultimately make all things right. This is a hope-filled promise for those who are suffering, oppressed, or marginalized. Christ’s return will bring restoration, wiping away every tear and making all things new. The ultimate defeat of sin and death at the return of Christ is the culmination of God’s redemptive love for His creation.

Additionally, the fact that Jesus’ priesthood is eternal speaks to the unchanging nature of God’s love. Jesus’ sacrifice for sins is sufficient for all time, and His intercession on behalf of believers continues. This unbroken relationship with God, established by Christ, is a manifestation of God’s unwavering love for His people.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: The Reign of Christ: King and Priest Forever

Main Idea: Psalm 110 reveals the enthronement of Jesus Christ as both King and Priest, pointing to His ultimate authority, His eternal intercession, and His coming judgment. This passage invites us to respond by recognizing Jesus as Lord and committing to follow Him in faithful discipleship.

I. The Exaltation of Christ: “Sit at My Right Hand” (vv. 1-2)

• Main Point: Christ is exalted by the Father, and His authority is established forever.
• Scripture Reference: “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’”
• Explanation: The Father places Jesus at His right hand, a position of supreme power and authority. This marks the beginning of Christ’s eternal reign.
• Application: In a world where many are tempted to seek power or recognition, we are reminded that Jesus holds the ultimate authority, and we are called to submit to His lordship in every aspect of our lives.
• Transition: Jesus is not only a King; He is also a Priest, bridging the gap between humanity and God.

II. The Priesthood of Christ: A Priest Forever (v. 4)

• Main Point: Jesus serves as a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek, offering us eternal access to God.
• Scripture Reference: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: ‘You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.’”
• Explanation: Unlike the temporary Levitical priests, Christ’s priesthood is eternal, and He offers a perfect sacrifice for sins, making intercession for us before the Father.
• Application: We can boldly approach God in prayer, knowing that Jesus is our mediator. His work as our eternal High Priest assures us of forgiveness, reconciliation, and continual access to God’s grace.
• Transition: Christ’s reign and priesthood lead to the final defeat of His enemies.

III. The Judgment of Christ: The Victory of the King (vv. 5-7)

• Main Point: Christ will return in power to judge His enemies and establish His kingdom forever.
• Scripture Reference: “The Lord is at your right hand; he will crush kings on the day of his wrath.”
• Explanation: The second coming of Christ is not one of humility and suffering, but one of power and judgment. His enemies will be defeated, and His righteous rule will be established on the earth.
• Application: This future reality calls for urgency in our evangelism and holiness. Knowing that Christ will return to judge the world should compel us to live in anticipation of His coming, living lives that reflect His justice and righteousness.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

• Main Point: Recognizing Jesus as both King and Priest requires a response of obedience and worship.
• Application: In light of His exaltation and priesthood, we are called to submit to His authority, trust in His eternal sacrifice, and live in hope of His coming kingdom. We are also called to make disciples, sharing the good news of Christ’s reign with others, and to live out the values of His kingdom—righteousness, justice, mercy, and peace—until He returns.

Illustrations and Examples

1. The Authority of Christ:
   A modern illustration of Christ’s authority could be comparing His reign to that of a president or leader who holds ultimate authority in their country. Just as a president has the power to enact laws, enforce order, and make decisions for the nation, Christ, as King, exercises ultimate authority over all creation. However, unlike earthly rulers whose authority can be challenged, Christ’s reign is unshakable, eternal, and just.
2. The Priesthood of Christ:
   Consider the role of a mediator in human relationships. A counselor, for example, helps bridge the gap between two parties in conflict, guiding them to resolution. In a much more significant way, Jesus acts as our perfect mediator between God and humanity. His work as our High Priest enables us to have direct access to God, even though we were once separated by our sin.
3. The Judgment of Christ:
   Think of a courtroom where justice is finally served. While earthly courts often fail to bring perfect justice, Christ’s judgment will be flawless. Just as a judge brings finality and truth in a court case, Christ’s return will bring perfect justice, eradicating evil and making all things new.

Application for Today’s Christian

1. Discipleship:
   As believers, we are called to recognize Jesus as our King and Priest. This means submitting to His authority, following His teachings, and living according to the values of His kingdom. Discipleship involves not only learning from Jesus but also aligning our hearts with His, allowing His reign to transform our lives.
2. Stewardship:
   Recognizing Christ as King calls us to steward the resources God has given us for His kingdom purposes. This includes our time, talents, and finances. Just as a servant of a king would use their gifts to further the king’s agenda, so too are we called to use our lives in service to Christ and His kingdom.
3. Living Out Our Faith:
   Understanding Christ’s priesthood should lead to a life of prayer, worship, and trust in His ongoing work on our behalf. We are encouraged to pray boldly and with confidence, knowing that Christ is our advocate. Additionally, the future hope of Christ’s return calls us to live in anticipation, keeping our hearts pure, and sharing the gospel with urgency, knowing that His judgment is coming for all who do not repent.

Reflection Questions

1. In what areas of your life do you need to submit more fully to the authority of Christ as King?
2. How does Jesus’ role as our High Priest affect your approach to prayer and your confidence in God’s forgiveness?
3. What practical steps can you take to live in light of Christ’s return and the coming judgment, sharing the gospel with urgency and living a life of holiness?
4. How does understanding Christ’s eternal reign and priesthood affect your view of your daily responsibilities, relationships, and decisions?
5. How can recognizing Jesus as both King and Priest inspire you to live with a deeper sense of peace and assurance, knowing that He reigns over all and intercedes on your behalf?
6. In what ways can you reflect Christ’s justice, mercy, and righteousness in your relationships with others, especially those who may not yet know Him?