Psalm 45:3–5—Is this a prediction of Mohammed?

Problem: Since this verse speaks of one coming with the “sword” to subdue his enemies, Muslims sometimes cite it as a prediction of their prophet Mohammed, who was known as “the prophet of the sword.” They insist it could not refer to Jesus, since He never came with a sword (Matt. 26:52).

Solution: This contention, however, fails for several reasons. First, the very next verse (v. 6) identifies the person spoken of as “God” whom Jesus claimed to be (John 8:58; 10:30). But Mohammed denied he was God, saying he was only a human prophet. Second, the NT affirms that this passage refers to Christ (Heb. 1:8). Third, although Jesus did not come the first time with a sword, He will at His second coming (cf. Rev. 19:11–16).

This excerpt is from When Critics Ask: A Popular Handbook on Bible Difficulties (Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books, 1992). © 2014 Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe. All rights reserved. Used by permission. Click here to purchase this book.