Sunday B-Side
The events of Mark 11 and 12 run parallel to Psalm 2 ("Why do the nations rage..."). The religious rulers in Jerusalem have been plotting against the Lord's Anointed, but God sits in heaven and laughs, establishing His King on Zion.
When the New Testament quotes an Old Testament verse, the surrounding verses are often in view as well (e.g., Jesus crying out "My God, my God" from the cross points to the entirety of Psalm 22).
By quoting Psalm 110:1, Jesus also brings Psalm 110:4 into view, which states, "You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek."
Genesis 14... Melchizedek was both the King of Salem (an ancient name for Jerusalem) and a priest of God Most High. He uniquely brought bread and wine to Abraham.
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this type. He is the Son of David (King of Jerusalem) and the Great High Priest. Just like Melchizedek, Jesus is about to institute the Lord's Supper using bread and wine in Jerusalem. He is establishing both a Kingdom and a priesthood.
Jesus took His place at the right hand of the Father during His ascension.
While Psalm 24 ("Lift up your heads, O gates") historically deals with the Ark of the Covenant entering Jerusalem, it is also beautifully viewed as an ascension text. It paints a picture of the resurrected Jesus arriving at the gates of heaven, being welcomed in as the victorious "King of Glory."
In ancient times, victorious kings would physically put their feet on the necks of defeated enemies (as seen in Joshua 10).
Psalm 110 says God will make Christ's enemies His footstool. Those who proudly oppose Jesus will ultimately be conquered and placed under His feet.
In the age of Google and social media, it's easy to pretend to be an expert on a topic with only cursory knowledge. It is freeing and healthy to simply admit when you don't know something.
The scribes considered themselves the ultimate experts on biblical prophecy, yet they completely missed the Messiah standing right in front of them.
When Jesus stumped them with simple logic, they could have humbled themselves and asked Him to teach them. Instead, their wounded pride turned to violence. When people can't win with facts and logic, they often resort to yelling or violence because it is easier than humility.
True maturity means approaching the Word of God like a blank piece of paper. We must be willing to let the Bible challenge and change our long-held traditions.