Psalm 110:2-3
“The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.”
King James Version
The Messiah's scepter going forth from Zion to rule even among adversaries, the progressive expansion of Christ's reign.
Fulfillment References
Romans 1:4 Revelation 2:27 Hebrews 10:13
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalPsalm 110 is the most-quoted psalm in the New Testament. The LORD enthroned at God's right hand, ruling from Zion, is Jesus exalted — made 'both Lord and Christ' (Acts 2:34-36). This is not a second God beside the Father, but the one God who, having taken flesh, reigns as the glorified Man; the 'right hand' is power and authority, not a separate Person.
JewishOriginally a royal enthronement psalm for the Davidic king; later interpretation variously applied it to David, Abraham, Hezekiah, or the Messiah. The 'rod out of Zion' is the king's God-given dominion.
CatholicMessianic — Christ's heavenly session and reign 'in the midst of His enemies' until the consummation; the willing people ('thy people shall be willing') are read of the Church.
ProtestantThe reigning Messiah extends His kingdom from Zion now, ruling amid enemies until they are subdued (1 Cor. 15:25); the 'day of thy power' spans His present and consummated reign.
AcademicA pre-exilic royal psalm; the NT (especially Hebrews and Acts) makes it the premier proof-text for Christ's exaltation and priest-king office. The Hebrew of v. 3 is notably uncertain.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.