What Does It Mean that Jesus Sits at the Right Hand of God in the Bible?

Throughout Scripture, God often uses symbols and imagery to help us grasp spiritual truths. One such image is the position of “sitting at the right hand” of God. In ancient times, when a king or ruler elevated someone to sit at their right hand, it was not only a sign of great honor but also a powerful indication of trust, authority, and rule.

When a ruler invites someone to share their table or sit beside them, it signifies a high level of respect and authority granted to that individual. So when the Bible states that Jesus is seated at the “right hand” of God, it carries a much deeper meaning—expressing not only His honor but also His supreme authority, position, and role in the kingdom of God.

1. Honor

In ancient courts, sitting at the right hand of a king was the highest honor one could receive. The “right hand” symbolized a place of privilege, dignity, and proximity to the king. This was an exclusive position, given only to those the king deeply trusted.

When the Bible says that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, it means that Jesus holds the highest honor in heaven and on earth. He is the preeminent one, elevated above all creation, angels, and even the most honored humans.

Scriptural Reference:

Hebrews 1:3 – The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

This passage speaks to Jesus’ divinity, His unique role in salvation, and the honor He now possesses as the Son of God, seated at the right hand of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11 – Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Jesus’ exaltation to the right hand of God is not just about His status but also affirms His Lordship over all creation. This is a statement of ultimate honor, reflecting His unique relationship with the Father and His role in God’s redemptive plan.

2. Authority

The position of being at the right hand of a ruler is also a symbol of authority. A king would often place a trusted advisor or a powerful general at his right hand because that person shared in his authority and had the right to make decisions on his behalf.

When the Bible declares that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, it signifies His sovereign authority over the universe. Jesus is not only the one who was given authority to rule but also the one who actively exercises His power in the heavenly and earthly realms.

Scriptural Reference:

Ephesians 1:20-22 – …He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way.

This passage highlights that Jesus’ authority is not limited to a specific time or place. He is positioned far above all other powers and dominions, ruling with ultimate sovereignty over all creation, especially over His Church, which He governs and nurtures.

Matthew 28:18 – Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Here, Jesus declares that all authority has been given to Him after His resurrection. His position at the right hand of God is the fulfillment of this authority, and it underscores His role in fulfilling the will of the Father.

Romans 8:34 – Who is he that condemns? 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.

As the one with authority, Jesus intercedes for believers, actively working on our behalf. This shows His role as both Judge and Advocate, having the final say in all matters concerning our salvation.

3. Protection

The right hand of the king not only symbolizes authority and honor but also serves as a place of protection. In ancient times, being seated at the king’s right hand meant that you were secure, safe, and under the king’s direct protection. No harm could come to you while you were in this privileged position.

When God the Father places Jesus at His right hand, He is essentially declaring that Jesus has supreme dominion over all enemies, and that His protection over the Kingdom of God is invincible.

Scriptural Reference:

Psalm 110:1 – The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.

This messianic prophecy shows that God has placed Jesus at His right hand in a position of power and authority, with the ultimate goal of placing all His enemies under His feet. It’s a promise of ultimate victory and protection for those who belong to Christ.

Colossians 3:1-4 – Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Being “seated with Christ” implies that we, too, share in His victory and protection. Just as Christ is safely seated at the right hand of the Father, so believers are spiritually united with Him, under His protection and care.

4. Intercession

Jesus’ position at the right hand of God is not only a symbol of His authority and honor but also of His intercessory role. As High Priest, Jesus continually intercedes on behalf of believers, advocating for us before the Father.

Scriptural Reference:

Hebrews 7:24-25 – But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.

Jesus’ ongoing intercession means that He is actively working to ensure that we are always in a right relationship with the Father. His role as our mediator between God and humanity is vital for our salvation and ongoing sanctification.

5. Theological Implications for Believers

For Christians, the truth that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God carries profound implications. It not only assures us of His ultimate victory and authority but also promises us that He is actively involved in our lives. He is the one who gives us access to the Father, who intercedes for us, and who ensures that we are under His protection.

The Bible repeatedly points out that, in Christ, we have a privileged position of access to God, authority in Christ to live victoriously, and the promise of His protection and care.

Scriptural Reference:

Romans 8:31-39 – “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 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 passage beautifully captures the essence of the security and power believers have in Christ, who is at the right hand of God, interceding on our behalf.

Conclusion

The theological significance of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God is multifaceted. It speaks to His exaltation, His authority, His role as our High Priest, and His ultimate victory over all opposition. As believers, this truth provides assurance of our salvation, the power to live in victory, and the protection of Christ over our lives.

If Christ is at your right hand, then you are assured of His honor, authority, and protection, and you have the privilege of living under His intercession. It’s a powerful reminder of the greatness of Christ and the security believers have in Him.

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