The statement in Hebrews 1:3 that Jesus “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” is rich with theological meaning. It emphasizes Christ’s exaltation, His finished work of redemption, and His ongoing reign. Let’s explore its significance in context.
The Majesty on High
The “Majesty on high” is a reverent expression referring to God the Father. It highlights His transcendent glory and sovereign rule over all creation. Jesus’ position at the Father’s right hand speaks to His intimate relationship with the Father and His sharing in the divine glory and authority.
Sitting Down: A Finished Work
In the Old Testament, the work of the priests in the temple was never complete. They stood daily to offer sacrifices that could not fully atone for sin (Hebrews 10:11). In contrast, Jesus “sat down,” signifying that His work of redemption was finished. On the cross, He declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30), and His resurrection and ascension confirm that His atoning sacrifice was accepted by the Father.
By sitting, Jesus demonstrates that there is no more sacrifice needed for sin. His one offering was sufficient to cleanse His people and bring them into a right relationship with God (Hebrews 10:12-14).
At the Right Hand: Authority and Glory
In biblical times, sitting at the right hand of a king signified a place of honor, authority, and power. To say that Jesus is seated at God’s right hand means that He shares in God’s sovereign rule over the universe. This fulfills Psalm 110:1, where David writes, “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.’” The writer of Hebrews often references this psalm to emphasize Jesus’ exalted position (Hebrews 1:13; 10:12-13).
Jesus’ enthronement at the right hand of the Majesty on high confirms His divine identity and His role as the reigning King. It also underscores His active involvement in governing all things, sustaining creation, and advancing His kingdom.
Ongoing Intercession
Though Jesus’ redemptive work is complete, His session at the right hand of God also highlights His ongoing ministry as our High Priest. Hebrews 7:25 tells us that He “always lives to make intercession” for His people. From this position of authority, Jesus intercedes for us, ensuring that we are upheld in faith and secure in salvation.
The Law/Gospel Distinction
The imagery of Jesus seated at the right hand of God also reinforces the distinction between Law and Gospel. The Law demands continual obedience and points to our inability to meet its standards, symbolized by the endless work of the Old Testament priests. The Gospel declares that Jesus has fulfilled the Law’s demands and offers rest to those who trust in Him. His sitting down is the ultimate declaration of the “done” of the Gospel.
Application for Believers
For Christians, Jesus’ exaltation to the right hand of God is a source of immense comfort and hope. It reminds us:
Our salvation is secure: Jesus’ finished work ensures that no further sacrifice is needed.
He reigns over all: Whatever challenges we face, Jesus is in control and is advancing His sovereign purposes.
He intercedes for us: As our High Priest, He pleads for us, ensuring our perseverance in the faith.
Conclusion
When Hebrews 1:3 says that Jesus “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,” it proclaims His exaltation and the completeness of His redemptive work. It assures believers of His ongoing reign and intercession while calling us to worship and trust in our victorious Savior and King.
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