How does Ephesians 1:20 demonstrate God's power in Christ's resurrection and ascension? Text in Focus “ ‘ …which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms.’ ” (Ephesians 1:20) God’s Power Unleashed in the Resurrection • Death is humanity’s greatest enemy, yet God reversed it completely. • Acts 2:24 affirms, “But God raised Him from the dead, releasing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him.” • Romans 6:4 links that same power to believers: “Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.” • The resurrection is not symbolic; it is historical proof that God’s power conquers the physical and spiritual realm. God’s Power Displayed in the Ascension and Enthronement • The verse continues: God “seated Him at His right hand” (Ephesians 1:20). Seating signifies completed work and supreme authority. • Psalm 110:1 foretold this enthronement: “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.” • Hebrews 1:3 echoes: “After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” • Philippians 2:9-11 shows the global scope: every knee bows and every tongue confesses Jesus as Lord. • Ascension proves Jesus rules now; His authority is not future only but present, shaping history and eternity. The Continuation of God’s Power for Us • Paul’s context (Ephesians 1:19-20) links God’s power toward believers with the same force that raised and exalted Christ. • Colossians 2:12: “You were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.” • 1 Peter 3:22 reassures that Christ’s session at God’s right hand places “angels, authorities, and powers” in submission to Him, guaranteeing the security of every believer. Practical Takeaways • Confidence: The God who shattered death and enthroned Christ handles every circumstance you face. • Identity: United with Christ, believers share in resurrection life now (spiritually) and will experience it physically later (1 Corinthians 15:20-23). • Mission: Christ’s ascended authority energizes the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). His power backs our obedience and witness. |
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