The Rule of the Messiah
This psalm speaks of the Messiah’s rule and is citied in the New Testament more than any other Old Testament text. David writes foretelling of the rule of the one that would come from his linage (2 Sam 7). This psalm involves two sections: The Messiah’s Princely Rule (1-3) & The Messiah’s Priestly Reign (4-7).
This psalm begins with a revealing conversation between the Father and the Son (110:1). YHWH says to David’s Lord, “Sit at My right hand.” This Lord must be greater than David, for He will sit in the place of authority and honour. All the nations will submit to the coming Messiah (110:1; Phil 2:10-11). The Messiah will rule the earth from Jerusalem, as foretold in the prophets (Zech 14), during His Millennial reign (101:2). The Messiah’s people will serve Him in holiness constantly, like the dew of the dawn (110:3).
The psalm concludes with a promise that God has sworn by Himself that He will fulfil His word concerning His Messiah. The Messiah will be a King and a Priest forever. He is a High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek (110:4; Heb 7:1-10). His priesthood is special and not of the Aaronic line. He will be His people’s only meditator before the Father (1 Tim 2:5), and they shall be a priesthood to God (1 Peter 2:5-9). The Messiah will shatter the kings of the earth in a great battle (110:5-6; Rev 16:16). He will bring ultimate justice upon the earth (110:5-6). Then the Messiah (Jesus) will be exalted in honour and glory (101:7).
The New Testament affirms that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah, and that God raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand (Acts 2:32-36). Rejoice brethren, that He is coming again!