Psalm 68:18
“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
Christ's ascension and leading captivity captive, cited by Paul in Ephesians 4:8 as fulfilled in the ascension.
Fulfillment References
Ephesians 4:8 Acts 2:33 Colossians 2:15
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalPaul applies this to Christ's ascension: 'When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men' (Eph. 4:8). The LORD who ascends and gives gifts is the Lord Jesus — God who came down in flesh and ascended, pouring out the gifts of the Spirit (Acts 2:33); the very God who 'might dwell among them' now dwells in His people.
JewishA victory hymn celebrating God's triumphant ascent (to Zion or Sinai) and receiving of tribute; read of YHWH's kingship and Israel's deliverance.
CatholicA psalm of the Ascension — Christ ascending in triumph, leading captives and bestowing gifts on the Church (cf. Eph. 4).
ProtestantPaul's citation (Eph. 4:8) reads it of Christ's ascension and the giving of spiritual gifts; the conquering, gift-giving Lord is Jesus.
AcademicA difficult victory and processional psalm; Paul adapts v. 18 (with a notable shift from 'received' to 'gave') through a known interpretive tradition.
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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.