What does Luke 20:43 mean?
Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. Luke 20:43
Explanation
The verse “Till I make thine enemies thy footstool” from Luke 20:43 comes from a conversation Jesus is having with the religious leaders of His time about the identity of the Messiah. This particular verse is part of a quotation from Psalm 110:1, where David speaks of his Lord being exalted by God. Literally, it implies a military victory where the enemies are so thoroughly defeated they become like a footstool for the victor’s feet. In a deeper sense, this verse connotes the ultimate triumph of Jesus, the Messiah, over all opposing powers and authorities. It signifies a time when Christ’s reign will be completely acknowledged and His adversaries completely subdued.
Historical Context
During the time this verse was written, Israel was under Roman occupation, and the Jews were waiting for a Messiah who they hoped would overthrow their oppressors and restore the kingdom of Israel. Psalm 110, which Jesus references, is traditionally understood as a royal psalm written by King David, reflecting the expectation of a powerful ruler whom God would support. By referring to this psalm, Jesus is redirecting the understanding of the Messiah from a political/military liberator to a divine, spiritual ruler whose kingdom transcends earthly limitations.
Theological Insights
Theologically, this verse can be viewed from different perspectives:
- Christological Interpretation: It emphasizes the divinity of Christ and His ultimate authority over all creation.
- Eschatological Interpretation: It is seen as a prophecy about the end times when Christ will fully establish His kingdom and defeat evil.
- Messianic Interpretation: Reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah.
- Ecclesiological Interpretation: Some see it as a reference to the church’s victory over persecution and adversity through faith in Christ.
Practical Applications
In daily life, the teachings of this verse may be applied as follows:
- Spiritual Victory: A reminder that believers can trust in the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and opposition.
- Perseverance: An encouragement for believers to remain steadfast during difficult times, knowing that ultimate triumph is assured.
- Humility: It teaches that power and triumph are granted by God and not achieved by human effort.
Cross-References
- Psalm 110:1: “The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.”
- Hebrews 1:13: “But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?”
- Matthew 22:44: “The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?”
- 1 Corinthians 15:25: “For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.”
Language Study
The original Greek word for “footstool” used in Luke 20:43 is “υποπόδιον” (hypopodion), which refers to a stool or a footrest for the feet. The term “enemies” is translated from “εχθρός” (echthros), meaning adversary or foe. In the original context, these terms would convey a sense of complete subjugation and defeat.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
In ancient times, victors placing their feet on the necks of their enemies was a common symbol of conquest and dominion. Various ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and Assyrians, depicted this act in their art and iconography as a sign of the subjugation of their enemies. In a religious context, similar metaphors are found in other traditions signifying the victory of the divine or the righteous over chaos and evil.
Scientific Perspectives
The verse is interpreted in a spiritual and theological context, rather than a scientific one. Modern scientific understandings do not directly impact the interpretation of the verse, as it addresses matters of faith and belief.
Commentaries
- Matthew Henry: He notes the greatness of Christ’s victory and reign, looking at Psalm 110 as a reference to the ascension and dominion of Christ.
- John Gill: He suggests that this subjugation is a process, looking forward to a time when Christ’s enemies will be made His footstool in a complete and final sense.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that the passage denotes honor for the Messiah and subjection and disgrace for His enemies. It refers not to literal sitting or actual footstools, but symbolic of authority and conquest.