Psalm 68:17-18
“Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.”
King James Version
The LORD's triumphant ascent, leading captives and receiving gifts — applied by Paul to Christ's ascension and the gifts given to the Church.
Fulfillment References
Ephesians 4:8-10 Acts 2:33 Colossians 2:15 Judges 5:12
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalThe LORD who 'ascended on high' (Ps. 68:18) is Jesus (Eph. 4:8-10), who ascended far above all heavens and gave the Spirit's gifts — the one God dwelling among the rebellious through the Spirit.
JewishA psalm of God's triumphant procession (perhaps with the ark to Zion), the victorious LORD receiving tribute.
CatholicPaul applies it to Christ's ascension, leading captivity captive and giving gifts (the offices) to the Church (Eph. 4:8-11).
ProtestantEphesians 4:8 cites this of Christ's ascension and the giving of gifts and ministries to the Church.
OrthodoxChrist ascending in triumph, bestowing the gifts of the Spirit.
DispensationalThe ascended Christ giving gifts to the Church in the present age.
AcademicPaul cites the verse with 'gave gifts to men' (vs. the MT 'received gifts'), following a Targumic/interpretive tradition — a studied case of NT citation technique.
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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.