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Book of Luke - Chapter 20 - Verse 44

20:44
David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?

Meaning

In this verse, Jesus poses a question to the Pharisees about the identity of the Messiah. He references a psalm written by King David in which David refers to the Messiah as his Lord. This passage highlights the complex nature of the Messiah as both a descendant of David (his son) and yet also his superior (his Lord). The question challenges the Pharisees to reconsider their understanding of the Messiah and to recognize that he is not just a human descendant of David, but a divine figure who holds a higher position than any earthly king. By raising this question, Jesus is prompting the Pharisees to look beyond their preconceived notions and to consider the true nature of the Messiah as the Son of God.

Theological Overview

When David refers to the Messiah as his Lord in this verse, he is acknowledging the divinity and superiority of the coming Christ. This moment in the Gospel of Matthew is a theological revelation of the relationship between David and Jesus. By recognizing Jesus as his Lord, David affirms the eternal nature and divine status of the Messiah, who is not merely a descendant of David according to the flesh, but also his Lord in a spiritual and transcendent sense. This verse points to the complex nature of Jesus as both fully human and fully divine, the Son of Man and the Son of God. Through this theological interpretation, we can better understand the profound mystery and significance of Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy and the ultimate savior of humanity.

American Standard Version

David therefore calleth him Lord, and how is he his son?
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