110:3 When Messiah comes to rule over His enemies His people will willingly join in His reign (cf. Judg. 5:2). They will be holy in contrast to the unholy whom Messiah will subdue. They will be as youthful warriors, namely strong and energetic. They will be as the dew in the sense of being fresh, numerous, and a blessing from God. The expression "from the womb of the dawn"probably signifies their early appearance during Messiah's reign. Later revelation identifies these people as faithful believers (Rev. 5:10; 20:4, 6; 22:5).
110:4 Yahweh has made an affirmation in the most definite way possible and will not change His mind.181Messiah will be a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek (lit. king of righteousness). This is the first reference in Scripture to this order of priests. Melchizedek ruled over Salem (lit. peace), the ancient name for Jerusalem where David also ruled. Melchizedek was also a priest of the Most High God (Gen. 14:18; cf. Heb. 7:1). Thus he was both a king and a priest. Messiah would also be a king and a priest. In this sense Messiah was a priest in the order of Melchizedek. He continued the type of priesthood Melchizedek had, namely a kingly or royal priesthood.
If Yahweh sets up Messiah as a priest "forever,"the Aaronic order of priests must end as God's appointed order (cf. Heb. 5:6; 6:20; 7:17, 21). As a priest Messiah offered Himself as a substitute sacrifice on the cross (cf. Heb. 7:27-28; 10:10). Jesus was not of Aaron's line since He descended from the tribe of Judah (cf. Heb. 7:11-18). He is the new eternal High Priest (cf. Heb. 7:21-26, 28), and He mediates the New Covenant that replaces the Old Mosaic Covenant (cf. Heb. 8:13; 9:15).
