Daily Devotional for Saturday, May 2

The Nature of the Messiah

“And he said unto them, How they say that Christ is David’s son? And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son?” Luke 20:41-44.

In this brief yet powerful exchange, Jesus challenged the religious leaders’ understanding of the Messiah. The common belief was that the Messiah would come from the lineage of David—a human king who would restore Israel’s earthly glory. While this is true in part, Jesus revealed a deeper reality. Quoting Psalm 110:1, He points out that David calls the Messiah “Lord,” highlighting that the promised Savior would not only be David’s descendant but also his divine Master.   

Through this question, Jesus illustrated the dual nature of the Messiah: both fully human and fully divine. As the “Son of David,” Jesus fulfilled prophecy by being born into David’s royal line, entering the world in humility. Yet, as “Lord,” He is eternal, seated at the right hand of God, ruling with authority over all creation. The religious leaders, who focused on earthly expectations, missed the greater truth that the Messiah standing before them was God in the flesh.   

Jesus invites us to see Him for who He truly is: the King who came to save, and the Lord who reigns forever. His nature as both man and God bridges the gap between Heaven and earth, offering us not just temporary relief, but eternal redemption. When we recognize Jesus as both our Savior and our Lord, our understanding deepens, and our worship grows richer.   

THOUGHT FOR TODAY 

Jesus is more than a figure from history—He is the eternal King who reigns over every part of our lives. Let His divinity shape your devotion, and His humanity remind you of His nearness.

Steven Ridings