How Can Jesus Sit at the Right Hand of God if He Is God?
Today, we will talk about how Jesus can sit at the right hand of God if He is God. Many Christians do not know what this means. This is a question that involves understanding the divine nature of Jesus, the relationship between the Father and the Son, and what it signifies that Jesus is at the right hand of God. As we wade through the Scriptures, let us open our minds and hearts to explore this important truth of our faith. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide us in understanding.
The Divine Nature of Jesus
To understand how Jesus can sit at the right hand of God while also being God, we need to examine the nature of Jesus Christ. According to Christian belief, Jesus is both fully God and fully man, a truth known as the Hypostatic Union. This theological concept means that in Jesus, divine and human natures coexist without mixing or losing their uniqueness. In the New Testament, Paul elaborates on this idea: “For in Him all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form” (Colossians 2:9, NIV).
In the Hebrew language, the term for God is “Elohim,” which indicates a plurality within unity. This lends itself to the understanding of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit—three persons in one essence. The Greek word for “right hand” is “dexios,” which signifies a place of honor and authority. Thus, Jesus sitting at the right hand of God emphasizes His divine status as the exalted one, fulfilling His role within the Godhead.
Furthermore, the Old Testament prophecies pointed to the Messiah as a divine figure. Psalm 110:1 says, “The LORD says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’” This verse signifies that while the Father is granting authority to Jesus, it does not diminish His own divinity. The relationship between the Father and the Son is unique and reflects both authority and unity.
The Significance of Sitting at the Right Hand
When we say that Jesus sits at the right hand of God, we are speaking of His exaltation and His ongoing role in salvation history. In ancient times, sitting at the right hand of a king was a place of high honor and power. Jesus’ position signifies His authority over all creation, as Matthew 28:18 states: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” By sitting at the right hand of God, Jesus intercedes on behalf of believers, as depicted in Romans 8:34, “Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”
This role of intercession emphasizes the relationship between the Father and the Son. It reveals that while Jesus is God, He also acts as our representative before God. This dual nature enhances our understanding of His work in our lives. The writer of Hebrews elaborates by stating, “But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 10:12, NIV). His sitting signifies the completion of His sacrificial work and His ongoing advocacy for us.
More than a matter of physical location, Jesus’ position at the right hand of God is an invitation to believers. It symbolizes that we, too, have a place in God’s family. Ephesians 2:6 reminds us, “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” This powerful imagery captures the essence of our relationship with the Godhead: we are co-heirs with Christ, enjoying the benefits of His victory and authority.
The relationship between the Father and the Son is vital for understanding this question. Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus addressing God as His Father, which created a unique and close relationship. In John 10:30, Jesus affirms, “I and the Father are one.” This statement showcases the unity within the Trinity, yet acknowledges the distinct roles each Person plays.
However, Jesus also exhibits submission to the Father. In John 14:28, He says, “The Father is greater than I.” This statement has often been a subject of discussion, but it does not imply that Jesus is inferior in essence or divinity. Instead, it reflects His role during His earthly ministry and the order within the Trinity. In a familial structure, even when all members possess equal value, there is often a hierarchy of roles.
Jesus’ submission does not detract from His divinity. On the contrary, it enriches our understanding of the nature of God as a loving, relational community. The Father honors the Son, and the Son, in turn, honors the Father. This demonstrates a beautiful dance of mutual respect and purpose, essential for the work of salvation.
In conclusion, understanding how Jesus can sit at the right hand of God if He is God offers us a rich tapestry of insights into the nature of Jesus, His relationship with the Father, and the ongoing work of salvation. As both fully human and fully divine, Jesus holds a unique position in our faith. His exaltation is not merely a historical fact; it is a living truth that impacts our daily walk with Him. The promise of His intercession assures us of God’s constant presence and unending grace in our lives. As we go about our days, let us hold onto this truth with confidence, knowing that we are cherished and supported by our Savior who reigns on high.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our discussion on how Jesus can sit at the right hand of God while being God, it’s clear that this truth highlights the unity and relationship within the Trinity. Through our exploration, we’ve seen the significance of Jesus’ exaltation as a joy that assures us of His advocacy. The relationship between the Father and the Son offers us hope, reflecting a model of love and respect. We also recognize that this understanding enriches our spiritual lives, granting us access to grace and connection with God.
Let us remember that Jesus’ position is a symbol of His victory and authority over sin and death. It not only impacts His identity but reaffirms our identity as His beloved. As we live out our faith, may we be inspired to approach God with confidence, knowing that our Savior is at the right hand, interceding for us. In our prayers, in our struggles, and in our victories, this truth is a powerful reminder of the loving relationship we have through Christ.
May we take this message and let it transform our understanding of who Jesus is and what He means for our lives. We are a community of believers called to carry the light of this incredible truth, sharing with others the good news that Jesus is both our God and our intercessor, sitting in authority at the right hand of the Father.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4