What It Means To Christians That Jesus Sits At The Right Hand Of God

The expression “Jesus sits at the right hand of God” carries profound importance within the Christian faith. This theological idea signifies the honored and authoritative status of Jesus Christ in heaven, positioned next to God the Father.

This concept also fulfills biblical prophecies about Christ’s role. He is not only our Savior but also our High Priest[1], interceding for us before God himself. By sitting at God’s right hand, Jesus demonstrates his glory and fulfills his mission to bring salvation to all who believe in him.

The concept of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God finds its roots in the Holy Bible. Several passages in the New Testament mention this divine positioning.

Biblical References Of Jesus Sits At The Right Hand Of God

Hebrews 1:3: The Holy Radiance Of Jesus

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.

In the book of Hebrews, it is revealed that Jesus Christ holds a special place in the divine hierarchy. The verse emphasizes that Jesus is not only the Son of God but also the very embodiment of his glory and the radiance of the Holy Spirit. Just as light radiates from its source, Jesus radiates God’s glory, illuminating all creation with his divine presence.

Mark 16:19: Jesus’ Ascension

So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.

According to Mark’s account, after his resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven and took his rightful place at the right hand of the Father Almighty. This event solidifies his victory over death and establishes his authority over all things. By being seated at God’s right hand, Jesus demonstrates his role as a mediator between humanity and divinity, showcasing his righteousness and glory.

Acts 7:55: Stephen’s Story

But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.

During Stephen’s martyrdom, he witnesses a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God, revealing Jesus’ righteousness and salvation. This unique portrayal emphasizes Jesus’ active involvement in believers’ lives, even in times of persecution or hardship, and showcases his compassion for them. It is a testament to the role of the Holy Spirit and the glory that comes from living a faithful life.

Understanding The Theological Implications Of Jesus’ Position

For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.

— Hebrews 7:26

Jesus’ position symbolizes honor, authority, and power. Just as a king would have a trusted advisor seated at his right hand, Jesus’ place signifies his co-regency with God. Jesus, then, is not merely a created being or a prophet; he is fully divine, equal to God himself in the heavenly places.

The fact that Jesus, the Lord, sits at the right hand of God validates his completed work on earth, especially his sacrificial death for humanity’s redemption. Jesus’ seating at the right hand of God signifies that his redemptive mission is accomplished.

Through his perfect life and sacrificial death on the cross, he has provided salvation for all who believe in him, as it is written in Hebrews 10:12: “But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.”

Significance Of Jesus Sitting At The Right Hand Of God

The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

— Psalm 110:1

The image of Jesus, the Christ, sitting at the right hand of God, the Father, encourages believers to develop a personal relationship with him. It reminds us that Jesus is not some distant deity but rather an approachable friend who intercedes on our behalf.

Through prayer, we can communicate directly with him, seeking guidance, comfort, and strength in our daily lives. This understanding fosters intimacy and connection between believers and their Savior, the One.

Knowing that Jesus sits at the right hand of God instills hope within believers by reminding them of their ultimate destiny—to reign with Christ. This truth assures us that this life is not all there is; there is an eternal life awaiting us where we will be united with our Lord forever.

Conclusion

The concept of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God holds immense theological and symbolic significance. It is not merely a physical position but represents Jesus’ exalted status and authority over all creation. This understanding can greatly impact our faith and relationship with him.

Understanding the theological implications further reveals that Jesus’ position at the right hand signifies his intercessory role on our behalf. He acts as our advocate before God, offering forgiveness, grace, and salvation to all who believe in him. As believers, we are called to submit to his lordship and live according to his teachings.