Psalm 110 is one of the most quoted psalms in the New Testament. It speaks of Christ’s authority, priesthood, and coming judgment. This psalm reveals Jesus as both King and Priest. It declares His victory over His enemies. It affirms His eternal priesthood in the order of Melchizedek.
These sample sermon outlines will help unpack the meaning of Psalm 110. Each section highlights a key verse and its significance. The goal is to provide a clear and compelling message. Preachers and teachers can use these outlines to proclaim Christ’s power, rule, and coming reign.
Sample Outlines for a Sermon on Psalm 110
#1. The Lord Says to My Lord (Psalm 110:1)
Theme
This verse reveals the divine authority of Jesus Christ. It declares His exaltation at the right hand of God and His victory over all enemies.
Introduction
Jesus Himself quoted this verse to show His divine nature. David, under the Spirit’s inspiration, calls the coming Messiah “Lord.” This verse proves Christ’s supremacy and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. It challenges us to recognize and submit to Christ’s authority in every area of life.
Main Text
Psalm 110:1
Key Doctrines
1. Christ’s Exaltation at God’s Right Hand
- Jesus is not just a prophet or teacher; He is the eternal Son of God. His position at the right hand of the Father signifies supreme authority, power, and honor. The apostles emphasized this truth in their preaching, pointing to His resurrection and ascension as proof of His divine rule.
- The right hand of God represents the place of intercession and victory. Christ intercedes for believers, ensuring their salvation is secure. His exaltation also means He has triumphed over sin, death, and Satan. No enemy can ultimately stand against Him.
2. Christ’s Victory Over His Enemies
- This verse declares that God will subdue all Christ’s enemies under His feet. Though evil may seem powerful now, its defeat is certain. Every power that opposes Christ will one day be completely destroyed.
- This truth gives believers confidence. No matter the challenges we face, Jesus reigns. His enemies may resist Him now, but their defeat is inevitable. We are called to live with faith, trusting in His sovereign rule.
3. The Authority of Christ in Our Lives
- If Christ is truly Lord, He must be Lord of our lives. Many acknowledge Him with words but resist His authority in their actions. True faith submits every decision, priority, and ambition to Him.
- Jesus’ authority extends beyond individuals. He reigns over nations, governments, and history itself. Every knee will bow before Him. The wise submit to Him now in faith rather than later in judgment.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I live with the awareness that Christ is seated at God’s right hand with all authority?
- Are there areas in my life where I resist Christ’s rule?
- How does knowing Christ will triumph over all enemies give me confidence in difficult times?
- What does true submission to Christ’s authority look like in my daily decisions?
Call to Commitment
Christ is not just a religious figure; He is the reigning King. His position at God’s right hand means He has full authority over heaven and earth. If He is Lord, He must be Lord over every part of our lives—our thoughts, words, and actions. Today, we must decide whether we will submit to His rule or resist Him.
This verse reminds us that Christ will reign until every enemy is defeated. We have a choice: to bow before Him in faith or to be conquered by Him in judgment. Surrender to Him today. Trust in His victory. Walk in obedience, knowing that His reign brings life, peace, and ultimate triumph.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for exalting Jesus at Your right hand. His victory is sure, and His rule is eternal. Help us to submit fully to His authority. Give us the wisdom to recognize His lordship in every area of our lives. Strengthen our faith when we face challenges, knowing that Christ reigns over all.
Forgive us for the times we have resisted Your rule. Teach us to walk in obedience and trust. May our lives reflect the truth that Jesus is Lord. Fill us with boldness to proclaim His name and stand firm in our faith. We surrender all to You, knowing that Your plans are perfect and good.
Amen.
#2. Rule in the Midst of Your Enemies (Psalm 110:2)
Theme
Christ’s reign is not distant or future—it is active even in the presence of His enemies. Though opposition remains, His kingdom advances, and His authority is unshaken.
Introduction
Jesus reigns now, despite the resistance of the world. His enemies do not diminish His rule; they confirm it. The gospel spreads even where Christ is opposed. This verse calls us to trust in His power and participate in His kingdom’s expansion.
Main Text
Psalm 110:2
Key Doctrines
1. Christ’s Present Reign Over the Earth
- Jesus is not waiting to be King—He already reigns. His kingdom is advancing through the preaching of the gospel and the transformation of lives. Though the world rejects Him, His rule is unstoppable.
- The church is His instrument in this age. As believers, we are called to live under His rule and proclaim His authority, pushing back darkness with the light of truth.
2. The Inevitable Defeat of Christ’s Enemies
- Though opposition to Christ exists, it will not last forever. Every enemy—sin, death, and rebellion—will be crushed under His feet. He rules in the midst of resistance, proving His power.
- We should not fear the hostility of the world. Christ’s victory is certain. Our confidence comes from His promise that nothing can stand against His kingdom.
3. Our Role in Christ’s Advancing Kingdom
- Christ calls His followers to be active participants in His reign. We are not passive spectators but ambassadors of His rule. Our faithfulness in obedience and witness extends His kingdom.
- The battles we face—temptation, persecution, trials—are part of His plan to refine us. Through them, we grow stronger and display His power in our lives.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I recognize that Christ is reigning now, even when the world seems against Him?
- How does my life reflect the reality of His kingdom?
- Am I actively participating in His work, or am I passive in my faith?
- What gives me confidence when I face opposition for following Christ?
Call to Commitment
Jesus does not rule from a position of weakness but of strength. He is King now, not just in the future. He commands His people to stand firm and advance His kingdom. We are called to live boldly, trusting in His authority.
If Christ reigns in the midst of His enemies, we can trust Him in the battles we face. Do not shrink back in fear. Walk in faith. Proclaim His truth. Stand firm, knowing that His kingdom cannot be shaken.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
You reign even in the presence of opposition. Your kingdom is advancing, and nothing can stop it. Help us to trust in Your rule and live with confidence. Strengthen us when we face challenges and opposition for our faith. Remind us that Your victory is sure.
Forgive us for the times we have doubted Your power. Give us courage to stand firm. May our lives reflect Your authority, and may we be faithful in advancing Your kingdom. Use us for Your glory, and help us to live with unwavering faith in Your promises.
Amen.
#3. You Are a Priest Forever (Psalm 110:4)
Theme
Jesus is not only King but also our eternal High Priest. His priesthood is unique, unending, and brings salvation to all who trust in Him.
Introduction
The Old Testament priesthood was temporary, requiring continual sacrifices. Jesus, however, is a priest forever. His sacrifice is complete, His intercession is ongoing, and His priesthood never ends. This truth brings assurance and confidence in our salvation.
Main Text
Psalm 110:4
Key Doctrines
1. The Eternal Priesthood of Christ
- Unlike the priests of Israel, Jesus’ priesthood is permanent. The Levitical priests served for a time, but Jesus serves forever. His priesthood does not end with death—it continues eternally.
- As our High Priest, Jesus represents us before God. He intercedes on our behalf, ensuring that we are accepted and secure in God’s presence.
2. The Sufficiency of Christ’s Sacrifice
- The sacrifices of the Old Testament had to be repeated, but Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all. His blood fully atones for sin, removing the need for further offerings.
- This means we do not have to earn God’s favor. Christ has done everything necessary for our salvation. Our role is to trust in His finished work.
3. Christ as Our Mediator Before God
- As Priest, Jesus bridges the gap between sinful people and a holy God. We do not need another mediator—He alone grants access to the Father.
- Because He intercedes for us, we can approach God with confidence. No sin is too great for His mercy. No failure is beyond His grace.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I trust fully in Christ’s priesthood, or do I try to earn God’s favor through my efforts?
- How does knowing that Jesus intercedes for me change the way I pray?
- Do I approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ has made a way for me?
- How can I rest in the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work?
Call to Commitment
Jesus is not just a past sacrifice—He is our living High Priest. His work is not temporary but eternal. We do not need to fear rejection from God, for Christ has secured our place.
Trust in Him completely. Stop striving to earn what He has already provided. Draw near to God, knowing that Jesus stands as your priest forever. Let this truth transform how you live, pray, and worship.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for giving us a perfect and eternal High Priest in Jesus. His sacrifice is enough, and His intercession is constant. Help us to rest in His finished work and not rely on our own efforts. Teach us to trust fully in His priesthood.
Forgive us for doubting Your grace. Strengthen our faith to come boldly before You. May we live with confidence, knowing that Jesus intercedes for us. Draw us closer to You each day, and let our lives reflect the power of His priesthood.
Amen.
#4. The Lord is at Your Right Hand (Psalm 110:5)
Theme
Christ is not only ruling but also actively executing judgment and delivering His people. His authority is not distant; it is present and personal.
Introduction
Many see Jesus only as a Savior but forget that He is also a Judge. This verse reminds us that He stands in power, ready to act. His presence at the right hand signifies strength, victory, and divine authority. Those who oppose Him will fall, but those who trust Him will be upheld.
Main Text
Psalm 110:5
Key Doctrines
1. Christ’s Authority to Judge
- Jesus is not just a passive ruler; He executes justice. He defends His people and brings judgment on the wicked. His rule is not weak—it is decisive and powerful.
- Many misunderstand grace as weakness, but true grace comes with justice. Those who reject Christ will face His judgment, while those who trust in Him will be saved.
2. The Strength of Christ in Battle
- The right hand is a symbol of power. Christ is not struggling against evil—He is victorious over it. He does not merely react to events; He governs them.
- No enemy, seen or unseen, can stand against His strength. Believers can take comfort in knowing that their King is mighty in battle, securing their future.
3. Christ’s Presence in the Life of Believers
- To say “the Lord is at Your right hand” means He is near, guiding and protecting. This is not just a theological truth; it is a personal reality for every believer.
- When we feel weak, He upholds us. When we face trials, He fights for us. His presence is our greatest assurance in life’s battles.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I recognize Christ as both my Savior and my Judge?
- How does Christ’s authority over all things change my view of the world?
- When I face struggles, do I rely on my strength or trust in Christ’s power?
- How can I live with greater confidence in His presence?
Call to Commitment
Jesus is not distant—He is near. He rules with strength, and He defends His people. His authority is not just for the future; it is for today. We are called to trust in His power and rest in His presence.
Do not live in fear. The Lord is at your right hand. Walk in faith, knowing that He upholds you. Let His strength be your confidence and His justice be your hope.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for standing at our right hand. Your strength upholds us, and Your justice prevails. Help us to trust in Your power and not our own. Remind us that You are near, guiding and protecting us each day.
Forgive us for the times we have doubted Your presence. Give us faith to stand firm, knowing You fight for us. May we walk in confidence, knowing that You reign. Let our lives reflect Your strength and bring glory to Your name.
Amen.
#5. He Will Execute Judgment Among the Nations (Psalm 110:6)
Theme
Christ’s reign includes judgment. He will not allow evil to go unpunished. His justice is certain and final.
Introduction
Many think of Jesus as only merciful, but Scripture teaches that He is also the Judge of all the earth. This verse reveals that He will bring judgment upon the nations. His justice will be complete, ensuring that righteousness prevails.
Main Text
Psalm 110:6
Key Doctrines
1. The Certainty of Christ’s Judgment
- Judgment is not a possibility—it is a promise. Jesus will return, and when He does, He will judge with perfect righteousness.
- Those who reject Him now will face Him as Judge later. This should stir both urgency in evangelism and a holy fear of God’s justice.
2. The Complete Defeat of Evil
- Christ’s judgment is not partial; it is total. Evil will be utterly destroyed, and righteousness will be fully established.
- The victory of Christ is not just spiritual; it will be visible. Every nation, ruler, and system that opposes Him will fall before Him.
3. The Vindication of the Righteous
- Believers may suffer now, but justice will be done. The wicked may prosper for a time, but they will not escape Christ’s judgment.
- God’s people will be vindicated. Every wrong will be made right, and every injustice will be answered. This is our hope and confidence.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- Do I take Christ’s judgment seriously, or do I ignore this aspect of His rule?
- How does the certainty of judgment affect the way I live and witness to others?
- When I see evil prosper, do I trust in God’s justice?
- How can I live with greater urgency in light of Christ’s coming judgment?
Call to Commitment
Jesus is both Savior and Judge. We cannot accept one without the other. His justice will come, and it will be perfect. We are called to live in light of this truth, trusting in His righteousness and proclaiming His gospel.
Let this reality shape your life. Do not grow discouraged by the evil in the world—justice will be done. Stand firm in faith, live in holiness, and share the truth while there is still time.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
You are a God of perfect justice. Thank You for the assurance that evil will not go unpunished. Help us to trust in Your righteous judgment and to live in obedience to You. Give us boldness to share the gospel while there is time.
Forgive us for our impatience when we see injustice in the world. Remind us that You will bring all things into account. Keep us faithful and focused on Your truth. May we live in holiness, awaiting the day of Your righteous rule.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Psalm 110 presents Christ as both King and Priest, ruling with authority and executing perfect justice. He is not a passive ruler—He actively defends His people, defeats His enemies, and establishes righteousness. His reign is unstoppable, and His judgment is certain.
These truths call us to action. We must trust in His power, rest in His presence, and live in obedience to His will. The world may resist His rule, but His victory is assured. Let us live with faith, confidence, and urgency, knowing that Christ reigns now and forever.
May we submit to His authority, proclaim His name, and walk in the assurance of His justice.