The passage in Matthew 22:43 refers to a question posed by Jesus to the Pharisees, which is part of a broader dialogue where Jesus is being tested by various groups, including the Pharisees and the Sadducees, on his knowledge and interpretation of the scriptures. Specifically, Matthew 22:43 says, “He said to them, ‘How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him “Lord”? For he says, “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet”’” (NIV).
This question is crucial as it reflects Jesus’ attempt to clarify the nature of the Messiah to the Pharisees, who were expecting a more traditional, politically powerful figure. Jesus quotes Psalm 110:1, which is attributed to David, where David calls the Messiah “Lord.” The significance of this lies in the fact that, according to Jewish understanding, David would not address a descendant as “Lord” unless this individual had a superior or divine status.
By posing this question, Jesus is pointing out the Pharisees’ misunderstanding of the Messiah’s nature. He is highlighting that the Messiah, whom they expected to be a mere human descendant of David, is actually more than that—he is divine, and as such, could be addressed by David as “Lord.” This discussion not only tests the Pharisees’ understanding of scripture but also subtly claims Jesus’ divinity and his fulfillment of the Messiah’s role as described in the Psalms.
This interaction is a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Matthew, showcasing Jesus’ profound knowledge of scripture, his ability to interpret it in a way that reveals his divine nature, and his confrontation with the religious leaders of his time. It demonstrates Jesus’ authority and understanding of his role in the context of Jewish scripture and expectation, laying the groundwork for the further revelation of his identity as both human and divine.
In the context of the New Testament, this passage also foreshadows the themes that would become central to Christian theology, particularly the divinity of Christ and his pre-existence as implied by the Psalms. The question Jesus poses serves as a bridge between the Old Testament expectations of the Messiah and the New Testament fulfillment of those expectations in Jesus Christ, underscoring the continuity and progression of God’s plan of salvation.
Understanding this passage requires a grasp of both the original context in which it was written and the theological implications it carries. It reflects the complex interplay between Jesus’ teachings, the Pharisees’ questions, and the broader narrative of Jesus’ ministry and identity. As such, it remains a subject of deep theological and historical interest, offering insights into the nature of Jesus Christ and the foundations of Christian doctrine.
