How can we connect Psalm 72:11 with Philippians 2:10-11 about Christ's lordship? Setting the Stage • Psalm 72 is a royal psalm that looks ahead to an ideal king of David’s line. • Philippians 2 centers on Christ’s humiliation and exaltation. • Both passages depict universal submission to a single, divinely appointed ruler. Psalm 72:11 — A Royal Prophecy “May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him.” • Portrait of a king who receives global homage. • Covenant hope: God promised David an eternal throne (2 Samuel 7:13-16). • The language pushes beyond Solomon to a greater, perfect King. Philippians 2:10-11 — The Fulfillment in Christ “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” • Jesus, though humbled, is exalted to supreme authority. • Universal scope: heaven, earth, under the earth—no realm excluded. • Confession of “Lord” echoes the divine name (Isaiah 45:23). Connecting the Two Passages • Psalm 72’s “all kings” and “all nations” align with Philippians’ “every knee” and “every tongue.” • What Psalm 72 anticipates, Philippians 2 declares accomplished in Christ’s resurrection and ascension. • The Old Testament promise of a global reign finds its concrete realization in the New Testament proclamation of Jesus’ lordship. A Thread Woven through Scripture • Isaiah 45:23 — “to Me every knee will bow” mirrors Philippians 2, confirming divine intention. • Luke 1:32-33 — angelic announcement that Jesus will rule over the house of Jacob forever. • Revelation 19:16 — “King of kings and Lord of lords” crowns the theme. • 1 Corinthians 15:24-28 — Christ subdues every enemy, then hands the kingdom to the Father, completing the Psalm 72 vision. Practical Takeaways for Today • Christ’s lordship is not merely future; it is present and comprehensive. • Submission to Him aligns believers with the eternal plan God revealed in Psalm 72 and fulfilled in Philippians 2. • Proclaiming the gospel invites others into joyful allegiance to the King to whom every knee will bow. |
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