1. After His resurrection and being with His followers forty days (Acts 1:1-3), Jesus gave His Great Commission and ascended to heaven. 2. When He ascended to heaven Jesus was seated at "the right hand of God" (Mark 16:19). 3. At the right hand of God, Jesus fulfills a number of important roles. 4. Before we examine these roles, let us observe how . . .
Discussion:
I. THE SCRIPTURES EMPHASIZE THE LORD'S POSITION AT THE FATHER'S RIGHT HAND
A. David prophesied that "his Lord" would be seated at "the Lord's" right hand (Psalm 110:1). 1. Jesus pointed out in Matthew 22:41-46 that David wrote about Him. 2. Peter also showed in Acts 2:32-35 that David wrote about Jesus. B. During His trials Jesus indicated that He would sit "on the right hand of power." 1. Jesus said this during His trial before Caiaphas (Matthew 26:62-64). 2. Jesus also said this during His trial before the Jewish council (Luke 22:66-69). C. Jesus is presently at the Father's right hand. 1. Stephen saw Jesus "standing on the right hand of God" (Acts 7:54-56). 2. Peter showed in 1 Peter 3:21-22 that Jesus "is on the right hand of God."
II. AT THE FATHER'S RIGHT HAND JESUS FULFILLS A NUMBER OF IMPORTANT ROLES
A. Jesus "intercedes" on behalf of Christians (Romans 8:34). B. Jesus rules as "the head of His church" (Ephesians 1:15-23). C. Jesus serves as "God's spokesman" (Hebrews 1:1-3). 1. Psalm 110:1 is quoted in Hebrews 1:13 to show that Jesus is superior to the angels who have served as God's spokesmen on numerous occasions. 2. Jesus' Word is the New Testament (Hebrews 9:15). D. Jesus serves as "High Priest" (Hebrews 8:1; 10:11-14).
