Luke 20:43
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:43
43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, truth, covenant. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 20:43
43 Till I make thine enemies thy footstool.
Analysis
Till I make thine enemies thy footstool (ἕως ἂν θῶ τοὺς ἐχθρούς σου ὑποπόδιον τῶν ποδῶν σου, heōs an thō tous echthrous sou hypopodion tōn podōn sou)—This continues quoting Psalm 110:1. Heōs an (until) introduces temporal clause: Christ sits enthroned while enemies remain unconquered, but their subjugation is certain. Hypopodion (footstool) references ancient victory customs where conquering kings placed feet on defeated enemies' necks (Joshua 10:24), symbolizing total domination.
The Father (kyrios, LORD) will make (thō, aorist subjunctive of tithēmi) Christ's enemies His footstool—not Christ earning victory through struggle, but the Father granting it as coronation gift. Paul applies this to Christ's ultimate triumph: 'For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death' (1 Corinthians 15:25-26). Currently, Christ reigns; ultimately, all opposition will be publicly, permanently crushed.
Historical Context
In Jesus's day, Rome seemed invincible—yet within decades, the gospel spread throughout the empire. Historical empires that opposed Christ (Rome, Nazi Germany, Soviet Communism) have all fallen, while His kingdom endures. The final fulfillment awaits Revelation 19-20's description of Christ's return and millennial reign.
Reflection
- What does Christ's patient waiting for enemies' defeat teach about God's timing and sovereignty?
- How should knowing all Christ's enemies (including death itself) will become His footstool affect your response to current opposition and suffering?
- Which enemies—personal, spiritual, or systemic—are you trusting Christ to ultimately defeat?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 19:27, Psalms 110:1