Exegetical Brief: Psalm 68:19 - He Received Gifts Among Men

Abstract

John F. Brug examines Psalm 68:19 and its New Testament application in Ephesians 4:8, focusing on the phrase “he received gifts among men.” Brug explores the Hebrew text, noting its complexity and the interpretive challenges it presents. He contrasts the literal rendering with the NIV’s paraphrase and discusses the theological implications of the verse’s imagery—God’s ascent, his reception of gifts, and his dwelling among even the rebellious. Brug highlights how Paul, in Ephesians, shifts the focus from God receiving gifts to Christ giving gifts to his people, aligning with the Targum’s interpretation. This shift emphasizes Christ’s victory over sin and his distribution of spiritual gifts—pastors, teachers, and evangelists—for the building up of the church. Brug concludes that the captives Christ leads include former enemies transformed into servants who now serve the church and help bring others into God’s kingdom. Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).