Why is Jesus described as sitting at the right hand of God?

The image of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God is one of the most powerful and evocative symbols in Christian theology. It encapsulates a range of profound truths about Jesus' identity, his relationship to God the Father, and his role in the cosmos. To fully understand why Jesus is described in this way, we must delve into the biblical, theological, and historical contexts that give this imagery its rich meaning.

The phrase "sitting at the right hand of God" is first and foremost a biblical one. It appears in several key passages in the New Testament. For instance, in Mark 16:19, it is written, "So then, after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God." Similarly, in Acts 7:55-56, during the martyrdom of Stephen, he sees a vision of Jesus "standing at the right hand of God." The Apostle Paul also refers to this imagery in his epistles, such as in Ephesians 1:20, where he speaks of God's power "which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms."

To understand the significance of this imagery, we must first consider the cultural and historical context of the phrase. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, to sit at the right hand of a king was a position of great honor and authority. The right hand was considered the place of highest privilege, second only to the king himself. This cultural background helps us understand that the New Testament authors were conveying a message about Jesus' exalted status and authority.

Theologically, the phrase "sitting at the right hand of God" communicates several key truths about Jesus. Firstly, it signifies his divine authority and kingship. By being seated at God's right hand, Jesus is depicted as sharing in God's rule and authority over the universe. This is a fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy found in Psalm 110:1, where it is written, "The LORD says to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'" This verse is frequently quoted in the New Testament to emphasize Jesus' exalted status (e.g., Matthew 22:44, Hebrews 1:13).

Secondly, the imagery of Jesus at the right hand of God underscores his role as our high priest and intercessor. In the Old Testament, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies once a year to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. In the New Testament, Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate high priest who, after offering himself as the perfect sacrifice, ascended to heaven to intercede on our behalf. Hebrews 8:1-2 states, "We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being." This underscores the ongoing nature of Jesus' priestly work, as he continually intercedes for us before the Father (Romans 8:34).

Moreover, the ascension and enthronement of Jesus at God's right hand mark the completion of his earthly mission and the beginning of his heavenly reign. It signifies that his work of redemption is finished, as he declared on the cross, "It is finished" (John 19:30). By sitting down, Jesus indicates that his sacrificial work is complete and fully sufficient for our salvation. This is further emphasized in Hebrews 10:12-14, which says, "But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy."

The image of Jesus at the right hand of God also has eschatological implications. It points forward to the time when Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead and to fully establish God's kingdom on earth. This is captured in the Apostles' Creed, which states, "He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there he shall come to judge the living and the dead." The enthronement of Jesus is thus both a present reality and a future hope, as we await the consummation of his kingdom.

In addition to its biblical and theological significance, the imagery of Jesus at the right hand of God has profound implications for Christian life and worship. It reminds us of the centrality of Jesus in our faith and the assurance of his ongoing presence and intercession. It calls us to recognize his lordship and to live in obedience to his commands. Furthermore, it offers us hope and encouragement, knowing that our Savior reigns with all authority and that he is actively working on our behalf.

In Christian literature, this theme has been explored and celebrated in various ways. For example, in his classic work "Mere Christianity," C.S. Lewis reflects on the significance of Jesus' ascension and enthronement, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's reign in the lives of believers. Similarly, in "The Institutes of the Christian Religion," John Calvin discusses the ascension as a pivotal event that assures us of Christ's ongoing work as our mediator and advocate.

In conclusion, the description of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God is a rich and multifaceted image that communicates his divine authority, his role as our high priest, the completion of his redemptive work, and the hope of his future return. It is a powerful reminder of the exalted status of Jesus and his ongoing presence and intercession in our lives. As we reflect on this profound truth, may it deepen our faith, inspire our worship, and strengthen our hope in the glorious reign of our risen Lord.