Psalms 118:26

Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the Lord: we have blessed you out of the house of the Lord.

Psalms 118:26 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 118 is a song of thanksgiving and praise, likely used at joyful events such as the dedication of the temple or the crowning of a king. The people sang this psalm as they approached the house of the Lord, the temple where God dwelt among His people. The verse has two parts. First, the people bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord, meaning the person comes with God’s authority and represents Him. Second, the priests or worshipers inside the temple answer, “we have blessed you out of the house of the Lord.” This shows that the blessing begins in God’s presence and flows outward to the people.

Meaning

The phrase “in the name of the LORD” signifies coming with divine authority and representation. The blessing from the house of the LORD indicates that the blessing originates from God’s presence. In its original context, this welcome could be given to a king, a prophet, or a priest entering Jerusalem or the temple. The words carried honour and expectation for God’s messenger.

Biblical connections

The New Testament applies this verse directly to Jesus Christ. As Jesus entered Jerusalem before His crucifixion, the crowds shouted these same words (Matthew 21:9; Mark 11:9; Luke 19:38; John 12:13). They hailed Him as the Messiah, the one sent from the Father to bring salvation. The disciples also expressed this blessing, saying, “Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord” (Luke 19:38). Thus, Jesus is the complete fulfilment of the one who comes in the name of the Lord.

Application

Believers today can welcome and honour those who faithfully teach God’s Word and come in His name. More importantly, we are called to receive Jesus Christ into our hearts and lives. He is the ultimate representative of God, bringing salvation and every spiritual blessing. True blessing does not come from human effort but from God’s presence, the true house of the Lord. This verse encourages us to recognize that all blessing flows from God’s presence, and to welcome and bless those who come in the Lord’s name.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that all blessing flows from God. When we gather for worship, we join the ancient song of praise. We also look forward to the day when Christ will return, and every voice will bless Him as the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Until then, we live as people who have received His blessing and who gladly share it with others.