What Old Testament prophecy is fulfilled in Matthew 22:44? Setting the Scene Matthew 22 finds Jesus in the temple, challenging religious leaders about the Messiah’s identity. He quotes a well-known psalm to show that the Messiah is more than David’s descendant—He is David’s Lord. The Prophecy Identified • Matthew 22:44 (quoting Psalm 110:1) “ ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand until I put Your enemies under Your feet.” ’ ” • Old Testament source: Psalm 110:1 “The LORD said to my Lord: ‘Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.’ ” How Jesus Fulfills Psalm 110:1 • David calls the coming Messiah “my Lord,” showing He is greater than David (Matthew 22:45). • After His resurrection, Jesus ascends and literally takes His seat at the Father’s right hand (Acts 2:33-36; Hebrews 1:3). • Ongoing fulfillment: all enemies are being placed under Christ’s feet (1 Corinthians 15:24-27; Ephesians 1:20-22). • Final fulfillment will climax when every knee bows and every tongue confesses Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:9-11). Supporting Scriptures • Mark 12:36 and Luke 20:42-43—parallel accounts confirming Jesus’ interpretation. • Hebrews 10:12-13—emphasizes the once-for-all sacrifice and present reign of Christ awaiting complete subjection of His foes. • Revelation 19:11-16—portrays the victorious return of the King who already reigns at God’s right hand. Why This Matters for Us • Affirms the divine inspiration and precision of Scripture—an Old Testament verse written a millennium earlier speaks directly to Jesus. • Confirms Jesus’ deity: only God’s equal can sit at God’s right hand. • Provides assurance of Christ’s present authority and future victory, anchoring our hope and encouraging bold faith. Key Takeaways • The prophecy in Psalm 110:1 is fulfilled in Jesus’ exaltation, as declared in Matthew 22:44. • Christ currently reigns; His ultimate triumph is certain. • Scripture’s unity and accuracy invite confident trust and joyful obedience today. |