Psalms 110

A Psalm of David.

This is one of the most highly Messianic prophecies in the Psalter. It was so admitted by the Jews themselves, (see on Psalms 110:1;) is universally so allowed by Christians; and is more frequently quoted in the New Testament than any other equal portion of the Psalms. See notes. In language suited to Old Testament times the author directly affirms that concerning Christ which was in advance of all type or prophecy hitherto revealed. The subject of the psalm is Messiah in his three-fold character of king, conqueror, and priest. No Hebrew monarch, either in his person or dynasty, embodied all these functions. We cannot, therefore, look to Hebrew history for any personage foreshadowing this complex character, while to the Aaronic priesthood it was totally foreign and repugnant. The idea is new, and one of direct revelation. In an early date of Hebrew history, however, we find the kingly and priestly character united in the mysterious person of Melchizedek, (Genesis 14:18,) who now for the first time is brought forth as the type of Christ, but, being in advance of the Mosaic cultus, is reserved to be explained only in the New Testament. Hebrews 6:20; Hebrews 7:1-10. Bold as the production stands in the foreground of prophecy, it must have a historic occasion, the traces of which must not be lost sight of in the interpretation, and none would seem so fitting as the events of 2 Samuel 7:0, as a supplement to Psalms 2:0