Psalms 110 KJV

Classic verse-by-verse commentary on Psalms 110 from Jamieson, Fausset & Brown (1871). Covers: The explicit application of this psalm to our saviour, by him (mt 22:42-45) and by the apostles (ac 2:34; 1co 15:25; Heb 1:13), and their frequent reference to its language and purport (eph 1:20-22; Php 2:9-11; Heb 10:12, 13), leave no doubt of its purely prophetic character. Not only was there nothing in the position or character, personal or official, of David or any other descendant, to justify a reference to either, but utter severance from the royal office of all priestly functions (so clearly assigned the subject of this psalm) positively forbids such a reference. The psalm celebrates the exaltation of Christ to the throne of an eternal and increasing kingdom, and a perpetual priesthood (zec 6:13), involving the subjugation of his enemies and the multiplication of his subjects, and rendered infallibly certain by the word and oath of almighty God.

1

The Lord said — literally, "A saying of the Lord," (compare Ps 36:1), a formula, used in prophetic or other solemn or express declarations. my Lord — That the Jews understood this term to denote the Messiah their traditions show, and Christ's mode of arguing on such an assumption (Mt 22:44) also proves. Sit... at my right hand — not only a mark of honor (1Ki 2:19), but also implied participation of power (Ps 45:9; Mr 16:19; Eph 1:20). Sit — as a king (Ps 29:10), though the position rather than posture is intimated (compare Ac 7:55, 56). until I make, &c. — The dominion of Christ over His enemies, as commissioned by God, and entrusted with all power (Mt 28:18) for their subjugation, will assuredly be established (1Co 15:24-28). This is neither His government as God, nor that which, as the incarnate Saviour, He exercises over His people, of whom He will ever be Head. thine enemies thy footstool — an expression taken from the custom of Eastern conquerors (compare Jos 10:24; Jud 1:7) to signify a complete subjection.

2

the rod of thy strength — the rod of correction (Isa 9:4; 10:15; Jer 48:12), by which Thy strength will be known. This is His Word of truth (Isa 2:3; 11:4), converting some and confounding others (compare 2Th 2:8). out of Zion — or, the Church, in which God dwells by His Spirit, as once by a visible symbol in the tabernacle on Zion (compare Ps 2:6). rule thou, &c. — over enemies now conquered. in the midst — once set upon, as by ferocious beasts (Ps 22:16), now humbly, though reluctantly, confessed as Lord (Php 2:10, 11).