The concept of exaltation in the Bible is deeply rooted in the relationship between God and His people, reflecting His desire to lift the humble and obedient to positions of honor and blessing. This promise is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting both the spiritual and eschatological dimensions of God's plan for humanity.

Old Testament Foundations

The promise of exaltation is evident in the Old Testament, where God consistently elevates those who are faithful and humble. In 1 Samuel 2:7-8, Hannah's prayer acknowledges God's power to exalt: "The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts. He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; He seats them with princes and bestows on them a throne of honor." This passage underscores the divine prerogative to elevate individuals according to His purposes.

The Psalms frequently echo this theme. Psalm 37:34 encourages believers to "Wait for the LORD and keep His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it." Here, exaltation is linked to patience and obedience, promising a future reward for those who remain steadfast in their faith.

Prophetic Promises

The prophets also speak of exaltation, often in the context of Israel's restoration and the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah 52:13 prophesies about the Servant of the Lord: "Behold, My Servant will prosper; He will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted." This messianic prophecy points to the ultimate exaltation of Jesus Christ, who, through His suffering and obedience, is elevated to the highest place of honor.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the promise of exaltation is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:9-11 declares, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Christ's exaltation serves as the model and assurance for believers who follow His example of humility and obedience.

Jesus Himself taught about the principle of exaltation through humility. In Matthew 23:12, He states, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching is a cornerstone of Christian discipleship, emphasizing that true greatness in the kingdom of God is achieved through servanthood and humility.

Exaltation of Believers

The promise of exaltation extends to all believers who are united with Christ. James 4:10 exhorts, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This promise assures Christians that their humility and submission to God's will are not in vain but will result in divine elevation.

The Apostle Peter reiterates this promise in 1 Peter 5:6: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." The timing of exaltation is in God's hands, encouraging believers to trust in His perfect plan and timing.

Eschatological Hope

The ultimate fulfillment of the promise of exaltation is eschatological, pointing to the future glory that awaits believers. In Romans 8:17, Paul writes, "And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This future exaltation is the hope of sharing in Christ's glory, a promise that sustains believers through trials and suffering.

Revelation 3:21 offers a glimpse of this exaltation: "To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne." This promise assures believers of their future reign with Christ, a profound exaltation that reflects God's ultimate purpose for His people.