How does Psalm 85:10 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament? Psalm 85:10—The Jordan of Old and New “Loving devotion and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” Four Pillars Standing in the Verse • Loving devotion (ḥesed) • Faithfulness (ʾĕmet) • Righteousness (ṣedeq) • Peace (šālôm) These four are not abstract ideas; they are living realities God pledges to uphold in the literal history of His covenant people. Jesus—The Meeting Place of Devotion and Faithfulness • John 1:14 — “The Word became flesh… full of grace and truth.” – “Grace” echoes ḥesed; “truth” mirrors ʾĕmet. • John 3:16 — God’s loving devotion sends the Son; the Son’s faithfulness carries the mission to the cross (Philippians 2:8). • Revelation 19:11 — Christ is called “Faithful and True,” joining both strands in His very name. Righteousness and Peace Kiss at the Cross • Isaiah 32:17 — “The work of righteousness will be peace,” a prophetic lens focused on Calvary. • Romans 5:1 — “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 — He who knew no sin becomes sin for us, granting His righteousness. • Colossians 1:20 — Peace is “made through the blood of His cross,” the literal point where righteousness (justice satisfied) embraces peace (reconciliation). Jesus’ Own Words Echo the Verse • Matthew 5:6, 9 — Blessed are those who hunger for righteousness; blessed are the peacemakers. • John 14:27 — “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.” • Matthew 11:28-30 — Rest (peace) is offered when we take His yoke, the yoke of righteous obedience. These sayings are not random; they flow from the same divine character Psalm 85 praises. Why It Matters for Everyday Disciples • Our salvation is not a compromise but a convergence—God did not lower righteousness to grant peace; He satisfied it. • When we proclaim the gospel we present both halves together: steadfast love and uncompromised truth (Ephesians 4:15). • Personal holiness (righteousness) and relational harmony (peace) are inseparable in kingdom life (Hebrews 12:14; James 3:18). • Every time we celebrate the Lord’s Supper we rehearse the kiss of righteousness and peace secured once for all. |