InstaStudy

The Exaltation of the Lord: Understanding "Sit Thou on My Right Hand"

This study explores the profound declaration, "Sit thou on my right hand," examining its prophetic origins, its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, and its significance for believers. We will uncover the scriptural meaning of this exalted position, recognizing the singular authority and power vested in the Lord.

1. The Prophetic Foundation of Psalm 110:1

1.1 David's Prophetic Utterance

Verses: Psalm 110:1; Matthew 22:41-45
  • King David, inspired by the Spirit, prophesied about a future Lord.
  • He recognized this Lord as superior to himself, calling Him "my Lord."
  • This prophecy points to the divine nature of the coming Messiah.

1.2 The Speaker and the Spoken To

Verses: Psalm 110:1; Isaiah 44:6; Isaiah 45:5
  • The "Lord" (YHWH) speaks to "my Lord" (Adonai).
  • This signifies the one God's declaration concerning His own future manifestation.
  • There is only one God, who speaks of His own plan and purpose.

2. The Symbolic Meaning of "The Right Hand"

2.1 A Position of Power and Authority

Verses: Exodus 15:6; Psalm 18:35; Psalm 20:6
  • In scripture, the "right hand" symbolizes strength, power, and victory.
  • It is the hand of blessing and divine favor.
  • God's right hand is consistently depicted as the source of His might.

2.2 A Place of Honor and Exaltation

Verses: 1 Kings 2:19; Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 8:1
  • To be at the right hand is to hold the highest rank and honor.
  • It signifies supreme authority and preeminence.
  • This position is not a literal physical location next to another being, but a state of ultimate power.

3. Jesus Christ: The Fulfillment and Exalted Lord

3.1 God Manifested in Flesh

Verses: John 1:1, 14; 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 2:9
  • Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God.
  • In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
  • The one God chose to reveal Himself to humanity through the person of Jesus.

3.2 His Resurrection and Ascension

Verses: Acts 2:32-36; Romans 8:34; Ephesians 1:19-23
  • After His death and resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven.
  • He was then exalted to the position of supreme authority.
  • This exaltation is the fulfillment of the prophecy, placing Him in ultimate power.

3.3 The Name Above Every Name

Verses: Philippians 2:9-11; Acts 4:12
  • God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him a name above every name.
  • At the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow.
  • This signifies His universal sovereignty and divine authority.

4. The Present Reign and Future Hope

4.1 Jesus's Present Intercession and Rule

Verses: Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 10:12-13; 1 Peter 3:22
  • Jesus, in His exalted position, continually intercedes for believers.
  • He reigns supreme over all creation, awaiting the full subjugation of His enemies.
  • His authority is active and ongoing in the lives of His people.

4.2 The Promise of His Return

Verses: Acts 1:11; Revelation 1:7; Revelation 22:12
  • The same Jesus who ascended will return in like manner.
  • His return will mark the culmination of His reign and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.
  • Believers eagerly await the glorious appearing of their exalted Lord.