Psalm 110:1-7

Read Psalm 110:1-7

Helpful Background Information: 

• One of the very last lines of Mark’s Gospel includes one of the most significant details. After Jesus rises from the dead and reveals Himself to many of His closest followers, we’re told that, “he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God” (Mark 16:19). Far from a little throwaway phrase, Jesus ascending to heaven and sitting at God’s right hand is the fulfillment of a key prophecy that was loaded with significance in ancient Israel. 

• Psalm 110 is the most cited or alluded-to psalm in the whole New Testament (see Matthew 22:44, Acts 2:34-35, Hebrews 1:13, and Hebrews 10; 12-13). There’s good reason for this extensive usage, as it provides the biblical foundation for Jesus being both a divine King (at God’s right hand) and a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek (v.4). As it pertains directly to Mark’s Gospel, the fulfillment of Psalm 110 vindicates countless claims Jesus made about Himself—the very claims He was crucified for. When the ascension of Jesus is mapped onto Psalm 110, it becomes the definitive seal and signature of God’s faithfulness throughout the ages.
  

Reflection Questions: 

• Jesus’ ascension is presented as His vindication after rejection and suffering. How does this shape the way you think about God’s justice and timing in your own life?

• Psalm 110 reveals Jesus as both King and Priest. What does it mean for you personally that Jesus not only rules with authority but also intercedes on your behalf?

• The same claims that led to Jesus’ crucifixion were ultimately affirmed by God. How does this challenge the way you respond when truth is rejected or misunderstood?