What does "sat down at the right hand" signify about Jesus' authority? Setting the Scene “Now the point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 8:1). Sitting Signals a Finished Work • Old-Testament priests never sat while ministering; sacrifices were continual and unfinished. • Jesus “offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, and sat down at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 10:12). • The seat proclaims that His atoning mission is perfectly completed—nothing more can, or needs to, be added. The Right Hand: Supreme Honor and Equality • In Scripture the right hand is the position of highest dignity (1 Kings 2:19). • Psalm 110:1, fulfilled in Christ: “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet”. • By occupying this place, Jesus shares the Father’s glory, confirming His full deity and co-equality (Hebrews 1:3). Authority Over All Realms • From that throne He exercises unmatched rule: – “He placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church” (Ephesians 1:22-23). – “Angels, authorities, and powers are subject to Him” (1 Peter 3:22). • His authority is comprehensive—spiritual and earthly, present and future (Philippians 2:9-11). Our Interceding High Priest • Seated yet active, He “always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25). • Romans 8:34 joins the themes: “Christ Jesus… is at the right hand of God and is interceding for us”. • His authority guarantees that His petitions for believers prevail. Living Response • Rest: because the work is finished, believers cease striving for acceptance. • Confidence: the One with absolute authority speaks for us before the Father. • Hope: His enthronement ensures the ultimate subjection of every enemy and the consummation of His kingdom. |
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