Luke 20:42
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:42
42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, obedience, wisdom. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 20:42
42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
Analysis
And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand (Καὶ αὐτὸς Δαυὶδ λέγει ἐν βίβλῳ ψαλμῶν, Εἶπεν κύριος τῷ κυρίῳ μου, Κάθου ἐκ δεξιῶν μου, Kai autos Dauid legei en biblō psalmōn, Eipen kyrios tō kyriō mou, Kathou ek dexiōn mou)—Jesus cites Psalm 110:1, the Old Testament's most quoted verse in the New Testament. The Hebrew distinguishes YHWH (LORD, Yahweh) from Adonai (my Lord): 'YHWH said to my Adon.' David, through the Spirit, reports God the Father addressing someone David calls 'my Lord.'
Sit thou on my right hand (Κάθου ἐκ δεξιῶν μου)—the right hand is the position of highest honor and authority. Kathou (sit, be seated) in the present imperative suggests both rest from completed work and reigning authority. This prophesies Messiah's exaltation after accomplishing redemption—precisely what happened at Jesus's ascension (Acts 2:33-35, Hebrews 1:3, 13). Peter quoted this Psalm at Pentecost to prove Jesus's lordship.
Historical Context
Psalm 110 was recognized as Messianic in Second Temple Judaism (evidenced in Dead Sea Scrolls). However, the paradox of David calling his own son 'Lord' wasn't fully resolved until Christian revelation of Jesus's deity. The New Testament uses Psalm 110:1 to affirm Christ's current heavenly session and future complete triumph (1 Corinthians 15:25, Hebrews 10:12-13).
Reflection
- How does Psalm 110:1 demonstrate the Trinity—Father addressing Son, both sharing divine identity?
- What does Christ's 'sitting' at God's right hand teach about His completed atoning work and ongoing reign?
- How should knowing Jesus currently reigns in heavenly authority affect your daily trust and obedience?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 110:1
- Parallel theme: Luke 24:44, 1 Corinthians 15:25, Hebrews 1:13