Psalms 110:4

KJV

The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} hath sworn {H7650}, and will not repent {H5162}, Thou art a priest {H3548} for ever {H5769} after the order {H1700} of Melchizedek {H4442}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI has sworn it, and he will never retract -"You are a cohen forever, to be compared with Malki-Tzedek."

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.”

American Standard Version

Jehovah hath sworn, and will not repent: Thou art a priest for ever After the order of Melchizedek.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 110:4 is a profound prophetic declaration, a divine oath from Yahweh to the Messiah, establishing His eternal priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek." This verse reveals a crucial aspect of the Messiah's dual role as both King and Priest, a revolutionary concept that transcends the limitations of the Mosaic Law and foreshadows a new, superior covenant. It underscores the unchangeable nature of God's promise concerning the perpetual and perfect mediatorial work of His Son.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 110 is a royal-messianic psalm, widely regarded as one of the most significant prophetic texts in the Old Testament, frequently cited in the New Testament. Attributed to David, it begins with an oracle from Yahweh to "my Lord" (Adonai), a figure superior to David himself, commanding Him to sit at God's right hand until His enemies are made His footstool ([Psalms 110:1](/psalms/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Messiah's Enthronement")). This establishes the Messiah's supreme kingly authority and divine enthronement. Following this declaration of kingship, [Psalms 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Priestly Oath") introduces an equally vital and complementary aspect of the Messiah's office: His eternal priesthood. The progression from kingly rule to priestly mediation highlights the comprehensive nature of the Messiah's work, uniting two offices traditionally distinct under the Mosaic covenant.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Under the Mosaic Law, the priesthood was exclusively reserved for the tribe of Levi, specifically the lineage of Aaron, while kingship was associated with the tribe of Judah, particularly the Davidic line. The idea of a single individual holding both kingly and priestly offices was highly unusual and, in most cases, forbidden (e.g., King Uzziah's attempt in [2 Chronicles 26:16-21](/2_chronicles/26-16 "2 Chronicles 26:16-21 - Uzziah's Presumption")). The only pre-Mosaic figure who combined these roles was Melchizedek, mentioned in [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek, King and Priest"). His appearance as "king of Salem" (likely an early name for Jerusalem) and "priest of God Most High" predated the Aaronic system and was not based on tribal lineage or a recorded genealogy. This unique historical precedent provides the cultural and theological backdrop for understanding the "order of Melchizedek" as a priesthood distinct from and superior to the Levitical system, pointing to a new divine arrangement.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Divine Oath and Unchangeable Promise** of God, emphasizing the absolute certainty and immutability of His covenantal declarations. The phrase "The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent" highlights God's faithfulness and the inviolable nature of His word, a theme echoed in passages like [Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God Does Not Change His Mind"). Secondly, it introduces the theme of **Messianic Kingship and Priesthood**, portraying the Messiah as holding both supreme authority and mediatorial access to God. This dual role is essential for His comprehensive work of salvation. Thirdly, it establishes the **Superiority of the Melchizedekian Order**, presenting a priesthood that transcends the limitations of the temporary, hereditary, and imperfect Levitical system. This theme is extensively developed in the book of Hebrews, which argues for the ultimate efficacy of Christ's priesthood over the Old Covenant's. Finally, the declaration of "a priest for ever" speaks to the **Eternity of Christ's Ministry**, contrasting sharply with the mortal and successive nature of the Aaronic priests, and pointing to a perpetual, living intercessor for His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sworn (Hebrew, _nishba'_):** This verb, derived from the root meaning "seven" (symbolizing completeness or fullness), denotes the act of taking an oath, often by invoking a divine name or sacred entity. When God "swears," it signifies an unbreakable, immutable, and self-binding declaration, demonstrating the absolute certainty and reliability of His promise. It elevates the statement from a mere declaration to a solemn, covenantal commitment.
* **Repent (Hebrew, _nicham'_):** This verb means "to be sorry, to regret, to change one's mind." In the context of God, it signifies that He will not alter His purpose or revoke His decree. Unlike human beings who may change their plans, God's counsel and promises are steadfast and unwavering, reinforcing the eternal and unalterable nature of the Messiah's priesthood.
* **Melchizedek (Hebrew, _Malki-Tzedek'_):** Meaning "My King is Righteousness" or "King of Righteousness," this name is profoundly significant. Melchizedek appears briefly in [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek's Encounter with Abraham") as a king of Salem (meaning "peace," prefiguring Jerusalem) and a priest of God Most High. His priesthood was not based on Levitical lineage, had no recorded beginning or end of days, and he received tithes from Abraham, indicating his superior status. He serves as a unique type, or prefigurement, of the Messiah, whose priesthood would likewise be non-Levitical, eternal, and supremely righteous.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent":** This opening clause emphasizes the divine origin and absolute certainty of the declaration. "The LORD" (Yahweh) is the speaker, making this an oracle of supreme authority. The use of "sworn" (a solemn oath) and the affirmation "will not repent" underscore the immutable and irrevocable nature of God's promise. This is not a conditional statement but an eternal decree, highlighting God's faithfulness and the unchangeable foundation of the Messiah's priestly office.
* **"Thou [art] a priest for ever":** This is the direct address to the Messiah, identifying His role as a priest. The phrase "for ever" (לְעוֹלָם, _l'olam_) denotes an eternal, perpetual, and unending duration. This stands in stark contrast to the Levitical priesthood, which was temporary, hereditary, and subject to death, requiring a succession of priests. The Messiah's priesthood is singular and continuous, signifying its perfect and complete efficacy.
* **"after the order of Melchizedek":** This crucial phrase specifies the unique nature and lineage of the Messiah's priesthood. It signifies that this priesthood is not according to the Aaronic or Levitical order, which was based on physical descent and Mosaic Law, but rather after the pattern of Melchizedek. This implies a priesthood that is non-hereditary, pre-Mosaic, superior in dignity (as demonstrated by Abraham tithing to him), and without recorded beginning or end, thus perfectly typifying the eternal, self-existent nature of Christ's high priestly ministry.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 110:4 employs several powerful literary devices. It functions as a **Divine Oracle**, a direct pronouncement from God, lending it ultimate authority and weight. The entire psalm, and this verse in particular, is a profound **Prophecy**, foretelling the future dual role of the Messiah as both King and Priest, a combination unprecedented under the Mosaic covenant. The reference to Melchizedek introduces **Typology**, where Melchizedek serves as a prefiguring type of Christ, revealing aspects of the Messiah's unique and superior priesthood long before His advent. There is an implicit **Contrast** drawn between this new, eternal, Melchizedekian priesthood and the temporary, mortal, and lineage-based Aaronic priesthood, highlighting the superiority of the former. Finally, the phrase "The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent" acts as an **Oath Formula**, a solemn declaration that emphasizes the absolute certainty and immutability of God's promise, reinforcing the unshakeable foundation of the Messiah's eternal priestly office.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 110:4 is a theological linchpin, connecting the Old Testament prophecies of a coming King with the New Testament revelation of Christ as the ultimate High Priest. It establishes the foundational truth that the Messiah's mediatorial work is not limited to kingly rule but extends to priestly intercession, making Him uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between God and humanity. This divine oath underscores the immutability of God's covenant promises, particularly the Davidic covenant, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's eternal reign and priesthood. The "order of Melchizedek" signifies a new, superior covenant, one not based on the Law but on an eternal, perfect sacrifice and a living, interceding High Priest. This verse lays the groundwork for understanding the profound theological shift from the Old Covenant's temporary provisions to the New Covenant's everlasting efficacy, all centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ.

* [Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek's Appearance")
* [Hebrews 7:1-28](/hebrews/7-1 "Hebrews 7:1-28 - The Superiority of Melchizedek's Priesthood")
* [Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, established by divine oath in Psalms 110:4, offers immense comfort and profound assurance to believers. Knowing that God has sworn and will not repent concerning Christ's perpetual priestly office means that our access to God is secure, our forgiveness is complete, and our advocacy is constant. Jesus, our High Priest, is not subject to death or the limitations of human weakness; He lives forever to intercede for us. This truth empowers us to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, knowing that we have a perfect mediator who understands our struggles and continually presents our needs before the Father. It reminds us that our salvation is not dependent on our fleeting efforts but on His enduring, perfect work. This assurance should inspire us to live lives of gratitude, boldness, and unwavering trust in His finished work and ongoing intercession.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the unchangeable nature of God's oath in this verse impact your confidence in your salvation and access to God?**
* **In what ways does Christ's eternal priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek" provide greater comfort and security than the temporary Aaronic priesthood?**
* **How should the truth that Jesus is continually interceding for you influence your prayer life and your approach to daily challenges?**
* **What practical implications does Christ's dual role as King and Priest have for your understanding of His authority and His compassion?**

### FAQ

**Why is Melchizedek so important to understanding Christ's priesthood?**

Answer: Melchizedek is crucial because he serves as a unique biblical type, or prefigurement, of Jesus Christ's priesthood. Unlike the Aaronic priesthood, which was hereditary, temporary, and bound by Mosaic Law, Melchizedek's priesthood was not based on lineage, had no recorded beginning or end, and was established before the Law. He was both a king and a priest, foreshadowing Christ's dual office. His encounter with Abraham, where Abraham paid tithes to him, also indicated his superior status. Therefore, Christ's priesthood "after the order of Melchizedek" signifies a priesthood that is non-Levitical, eternal, and inherently superior, as extensively explained in [Hebrews 7](/hebrews/7 "Hebrews 7 - The Superior Priesthood of Christ").

**How does this verse relate to Jesus being from the tribe of Judah, not Levi?**

Answer: This verse directly addresses the apparent conflict of Jesus, from the kingly tribe of Judah, also being a priest. Under the Mosaic Law, only those from the tribe of Levi, specifically the lineage of Aaron, could serve as priests. Psalms 110:4, by declaring the Messiah a priest "after the order of Melchizedek," prophesies a new, distinct priestly order that transcends the Levitical requirements. This prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus, who, though from Judah, holds an eternal priesthood not based on human descent or Mosaic law, but on the power of an indestructible life ([Hebrews 7:11-17](/hebrews/7-11 "Hebrews 7:11-17 - A New Priesthood and a New Covenant")). This necessitated a change in the law itself, ushering in the New Covenant.

**What does "will not repent" mean for us today?**

Answer: The phrase "will not repent" signifies God's absolute immutability and faithfulness to His word. It means that God will never change His mind, regret, or revoke this solemn oath concerning the Messiah's eternal priesthood. For believers today, this provides ultimate assurance and security. It means that Christ's work as our High Priest is eternally valid and effective. His sacrifice is permanent, His intercession is continuous, and His mediatorial role is unwavering. We can therefore approach God with complete confidence, knowing that our High Priest is eternally faithful and His work on our behalf is unchangeable ([Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Christ's Permanent Priesthood and Intercession")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 110:4 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the King-Priest prophesied by David. While [Psalms 110:1](/psalms/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Messiah's Enthronement") establishes His kingly authority and enthronement at God's right hand, [Psalms 110:4](/psalms/110-4 "Psalm 110:4 - The Priestly Oath") unveils His equally vital and eternal priestly ministry. The New Testament, particularly the book of Hebrews, extensively expounds upon this verse, demonstrating how Jesus, though from the tribe of Judah (a kingly tribe), is indeed "a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek" ([Hebrews 7:17](/hebrews/7-17 "Hebrews 7:17 - Christ's Priesthood Confirmed")). This means His priesthood is not based on human lineage or the temporary Mosaic Law, but on His divine nature and indestructible life, making Him superior to the Levitical priests who were mortal and offered imperfect sacrifices. As our eternal High Priest, Jesus has offered a single, perfect, and once-for-all sacrifice for sin through His own blood ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")), fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system. Now, He lives forever to intercede for us, continually presenting our needs before God and ensuring our access to the Father ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Perpetual Intercession")). He is the mediator of a new and better covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - A Better Covenant")), providing complete salvation and enabling us to draw near to God with confidence ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). Thus, Psalms 110:4 is a foundational prophecy revealing Christ as our reigning King and our perpetually interceding Priest, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.