The Identity of Jesus Christ: Acts 2:34-36
“34) For it was not David who ascended into heaven, but he himself says: ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at My right hand, 35) Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.” 36) ’ Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus whom you crucified.”” Acts 2:34-36
These verses are a great example of how the early church leaders became Old Testament Scholars. Peter closed his message on the Day Of Pentecost by quoting another Psalm from David. This time it’s Psalm 110:1.
In this verse, David points to the Deity of the Christ. When he said; “The Lord says to my Lord” it almost sounds like double talk, but apparently David had a personal relationship with the second member of the Godhead. He knew Jesus Christ.
Notice also that he mentioned the ascension and His position at the right hand of the Father; “Sit at my right hand, until I make all Thine enemies a footstool for Thy feet.” Verse 36 directly ties this into the glorification of Jesus Christ; “God has made Him both Lord and Christ— this Jesus whom you crucified.” Peter left no doubt of the Deity of Christ.
In Matthew 22:42-45, Jesus used Psalm 110:1 in His debate with the Pharisees. It utterly silenced them! Jesus pointed out that even David called Him Lord.
There are a three more profound references to Psalm 110:1 in the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 15:25 refers to it in passing. But Hebrews 1:13 is a direct quote in a passage that is defending the Deity of Christ. The whole chapter is worthy of detailed study.
Then the writer of the book of Hebrews again points to Psalm 110:1 in Hebrews 10:12-13. This quote from David has far reaching implications. It became the spike Peter used to close His sermon on the Day of Pentecost.
Again, I want to emphasize that Peter’s entire message on the Day of Pentecost was about Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Jesus was the One who poured out the Holy Spirit. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to lift up Jesus Christ and empower the Gospel message. He illuminates the Gospel.
What was the outcome to Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost? Stay tuned.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
