Christmas Prophecy: Jesus – Descendant of David (Psalm 110)
JESUS
Greater than David.
This Christmas season, as we continue exploring prophecies about Jesus, we turn to Psalm 110. This is Part 2 of our six-part Christmas Prophecy series, where we look at how Jesus, though a descendant of King David, is far greater than David himself.
We often admire great people from our lives or history—those we place on pedestals because of their achievements or influence. Think about prominent figures in politics: names like Kennedy or Reagan are remembered as shaping the course of their respective parties and the nation. In churches, we do the same, elevating theologians or leaders who made a significant impact.
In today’s passage, we see something similar happening. The Pharisees, while debating with Jesus just days before His crucifixion, thought of the Messiah in terms of greatness through lineage. But Jesus challenged their assumptions with a quote from Psalm 110, pointing out that the Messiah was more than just a descendant of David—He was greater than David and called Lord even by David himself.
Jesus, Greater Than David
In Matthew 22:41-46, Jesus asked the Pharisees, “What do you think about the Messiah, whose son is He?” Their answer was simple and predictable: “The son of David.” Then Jesus quoted Psalm 110, where David, in the Spirit, calls the Messiah ‘Lord’:
“The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool.’”
Jesus then asked the Pharisees, “If David calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He his son?” The Pharisees had no answer. They were stunned by the realization that the Messiah was not just a son of David—He was David’s Lord and far greater than Israel’s beloved king.
Questioning the Messiah’s Greatness
Psalm 110 highlights several aspects of the Messiah’s greatness. The first verse addresses how people can question the greatness of the Messiah. We might wonder if Jesus is truly the answer to life’s problems or if He’s really the way to God. But verse 1 of Psalm 110, as quoted by Jesus, makes it clear: the Messiah is not just a great king in David’s line; He is the Son of God.
The Messiah’s greatness surpasses human understanding, and even the great King David recognized Him as Lord. This is the Jesus we celebrate at Christmas—the one who descended from David’s line, but whose reign and authority extend far beyond.
Questioning the Messiah’s Rule
Many Jews of Jesus’ time looked back to the reigns of David and Solomon as Israel’s golden age, when the nation was at its height of power and influence. Yet Psalm 110:2-3 tells us that the Messiah’s rule would be far greater. His kingdom would extend beyond Israel, with an even mightier army than David’s. This prophecy hints at the Messiah’s future reign, which we see described in Revelation 19 when He returns with the armies of heaven.
At Christmas, we remember that Jesus’ rule began not in a palace but in a humble manger. However, His reign will culminate in triumph, as His kingdom is established forever.
Questioning the Messiah’s Righteousness
Psalm 110:4 introduces a fascinating element of the Messiah’s identity: He is both king and priest. “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” In Jesus, we see the fulfillment of this dual role. Not only does He reign as King, but He also serves as our eternal High Priest, mediating between God and humanity.
The book of Hebrews (5:6-10; 6:20-7:28) makes this connection clear, explaining how Jesus, like Melchizedek, is both king and priest. His righteousness is perfect, and He is the only one who can stand before God on our behalf. This Christmas, we remember not only the baby born in Bethlehem but also the Savior who offers Himself as the perfect, righteous mediator for us.
Questioning the Messiah’s Justice
The final verses of Psalm 110 (5-7) describe the Messiah as a warrior who will bring justice to the nations. Some see this as a reference to the battle of Armageddon, when Jesus will return to judge the world and establish His kingdom in full.
Verse 7 offers a symbolic image of the Messiah pausing to refresh Himself at a brook, then lifting up His head in victory. This reflects the perfect justice that Jesus will bring as both judge and conqueror. He is not only a descendant of David but the one who will bring ultimate justice to the world.
Reflecting on the Messiah’s Impact
As we reflect on the Messiah’s greatness, rule, righteousness, and justice, let’s consider how these truths affect our lives today:
How does His greatness influence your worship?
How does His rule impact the way you live?
How does His righteousness shape your relationship with God?
How does His justice give you hope in a broken world?
Spend time this week adoring Jesus for who He is—greater than David, ruling over all, perfectly righteous, and just. Let this Christmas be a season of worship, as we celebrate the one who came to save us and reign as King forever.
If you want to learn more about Jesus the Messiah, Shepherd Thoughts exists to help you live out your faith. If you or a friend needs support or resources to love God and love others more, please reach out to us today. We’d love to help.
