How does Psalm 110:2 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20? The Scepter Sent Forth “ ‘The LORD will extend Your mighty scepter from Zion: “Rule in the midst of Your enemies.” ’ ” (Psalm 110:2) • Psalm 110 pictures the Messiah seated at the Father’s right hand (v. 1) and reigning through a “mighty scepter.” • The scepter symbolizes absolute, kingly authority (cf. Genesis 49:10; Hebrews 1:8). • “From Zion” points to the Messiah’s throne—first earthly Jerusalem, ultimately the heavenly Zion (Hebrews 12:22). • “Rule in the midst of Your enemies” anticipates a reign advancing despite opposition (1 Corinthians 15:25). The King’s Worldwide Commission “Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…’ ” (Matthew 28:18-20) • “All authority” echoes the scepter imagery—Christ possesses universal sovereignty. • “Therefore go” shows that His reign advances through His people’s obedience. • Nations are the target; baptism and teaching are the means; His abiding presence is the power. Point-by-Point Connection Authority • Psalm 110:2—authority conferred by the LORD, pictured as a scepter. • Matthew 28:18—authority explicitly granted to Jesus after His resurrection. Extension of Rule • Psalm—“extend Your scepter” and “rule.” • Matthew—“go… make disciples,” spreading the kingdom to “all nations.” • Acts 1:8; 13:47 show the early church understanding the Commission as the fulfillment of royal expansion. Location of the Throne • Zion in Psalm 110: the seat of messianic kingship. • In Matthew, the risen Christ speaks from Galilee but is enthroned in heaven (Acts 2:33-36). From that heavenly Zion His Word goes out. Mission Amid Opposition • Psalm—reigning “in the midst of Your enemies.” • Matthew—mission persists “to the very end of the age,” a time marked by resistance (Matthew 24:9-14). Means of Dominion • In Psalm the scepter is the symbol; in Matthew the Gospel is the instrument. • Romans 1:16 calls the Gospel “the power of God for salvation,” the very force extending the King’s rule. Why This Matters for Us • Every time we share the Gospel, teach Scripture, or baptize, we are actively participating in the Messiah’s scepter being stretched farther. • Resistance is expected, yet the King reigns now; victory is certain (Psalm 2:8-9; Revelation 11:15). • Confidence flows from His promise, “I am with you always,” matching Psalm 110:5, “The Lord is at Your right hand.” Walking It Out 1. Recognize the King’s present authority—no corner of life lies outside His reign. 2. Engage in disciple-making; it is the ordained strategy for the scepter’s advance. 3. Stand firm amid opposition, remembering the prophetic assurance of Psalm 110. 4. Rest in His continual presence; the One who commands also empowers. |
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