What does Christ's exaltation in Ephesians 1:20 mean for believers today? The Verse in Focus Ephesians 1:20: “He exerted this power in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms.” Christ’s Exaltation Explained • Resurrection power: the Father literally raised Jesus’ dead body to life (Acts 2:32–33). • Heavenly enthronement: Jesus now reigns at God’s right hand— the seat of ultimate authority (Hebrews 1:3; 1 Peter 3:22). • Universal supremacy: every rule, authority, power, and dominion is beneath Him (Philippians 2:9–11; 1 Corinthians 15:25–27). Why It Matters for Every Believer Right Now 1. Shared position • “God… seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). • Our identity is anchored above this world’s shifting sands. 2. Unshakable security • Because Christ lives and rules forever, our salvation is forever secure (John 10:28–29; Hebrews 7:25). 3. Constant advocacy • The exalted Christ “always lives to intercede for us” (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). • Every prayer ascends through a living, reigning High Priest. 4. Available power • The very power that raised Jesus energizes believers today (Ephesians 1:19). • We can resist sin, endure trials, and serve boldly (Colossians 1:11). 5. Guaranteed victory • Christ’s throne guarantees the defeat of every enemy, including death (1 Corinthians 15:26, 57). • Hope is not wishful thinking; it rests on His completed triumph. 6. Future glory • Our exalted Head will return to share His glory with His body (Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). • Present sufferings are temporary and purposeful (Romans 8:17–18). Responding in Daily Life • Live above the noise: set your mind “on things above, where Christ is” (Colossians 3:1–2). • Pray with confidence: approach the throne of grace knowing the King welcomes you (Hebrews 4:16). • Walk in authority: resist the devil, knowing he is already a defeated foe (James 4:7). • Worship wholeheartedly: exalt the One who is already exalted, joining heaven’s chorus (Revelation 5:12). • Serve courageously: labor for the Lord, certain your work is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). |
    |