What does "exalted to the right hand of God" signify about Jesus' authority? The Scripture in Focus “Exalted, therefore, to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.” Acts 2:33 What “the Right Hand of God” Meant to First-Century Hearers – Kings placed their most trusted, empowered representative on the right side of the throne. – The right hand symbolized the spot of highest honor, unrivaled power, and shared rule. – Psalm 110:1 had long promised: “The LORD said to my Lord: ‘Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.’” Peter tells the crowd that Jesus now fills that promised seat. Four Dimensions of Jesus’ Authority Highlighted by His Exaltation 1. Kingly Sovereignty • Jesus is not merely honored; He reigns. • Hebrews 1:3–4 declares He “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,” having a “name superior to the angels.” • Sitting signifies completed saving work and ongoing royal governance over all creation (Colossians 1:17–18). 2. Judicial Authority • In ancient courts the right-handed advisor rendered verdicts for the king. • Acts 17:31 affirms God “will judge the world in righteousness by the Man He has appointed.” The exaltation certifies Jesus as that appointed Judge. 3. Priestly Intercession • Romans 8:34: “Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is interceding for us.” • From the throne He applies the benefits of His sacrifice, ensuring believers’ ongoing acceptance before the Father. 4. Mediator of Divine Power • Acts 2:33 links His enthronement directly to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. • This shows His present, active authority to distribute heavenly gifts and advance His kingdom on earth (John 16:7, 13-14). Why This Matters for Us Today – The Lord we serve is not awaiting authority; He already possesses it fully (Matthew 28:18). – Every competing power—seen or unseen—must ultimately submit (Ephesians 1:20-22). – Because He reigns, we pray, witness, and persevere from a position of confidence, not doubt (1 Corinthians 15:58). |
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