Jul 12
16

Catechism Insight – Doctrinal Standard WSC #28 (Week 2 of 3)

Doctrinal Standard #28 (2 of 3 weeks)

Q. How is Christ exalted?
A. Christ is exalted by His rising from the dead on the third day, His going up into heaven, His sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and His coming to judge the world at the last day.

Memory Verses

^“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1, ESV).

Scripture

Study Passage: Revelation 1
- Support Passages: Psalm 110:1 (quoted in Matthew 22:44, Mark 12:36, Luke 20:42; Matthew 26:64) Mark 14:62, 16:19; Luke 22:69; Acts 2:33-34, 5:30-32; Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 10:12-14; I Peter 3:22
- Bible Story: Acts 7:54-60

Thoughts

Last week we examined the same doctrinal standard but focused on Christ being exalted through His resurrection and ascension. This week we will focus on Christ’s being exalted sitting at the right hand of God. Millard J. Erickson in his book Christian Theology provides a great explanation on the significance of Christ seated at the right hand of God.
“Jesus’ ascension means that he is now seated at the right hand of the Father. Jesus himself predicted this in His statement before the high priest (Matt. 26:64). Peter referred to the session at the Father’s right hand in his Pentecost sermon (Acts 2:33-36) and before the council (Acts 5:31). It is also mentioned in the Ephesians 1:20-22; Hebrews 10:12; 1 Peter 3:22; and Revelation 3:21; 22:1. The significance of all this is that the right hand is the place of distinction and power. Recall how James and John desired to sit at Christ’s right hand, and at his left as well (Mark 10:37-40). Jesus’ sitting at the right hand of God should not be interpreted as a matter of rest or inactivity. It is a symbol of authority and active rule. The right hand is also the place where Jesus is ever making intercession with the Father on our behalf. (Heb. 7:25).” [1]
(See WSC #25 and lesson 32-34 for more information on Christ’s intercession)

Discussion Questions

Where is Christ currently at?
What is the significance of Christ sitting at the right hand of God?
What benefit do we as believers receive from Christ being seated at the right hand of God? (Refer to WSC # 25 and lessons #32-34).
What power and authority does Christ hold as he sits at the right hand of God?
How does it make you feel that Christ is alive and sitting at the right hand of God?

[1] Erickson, Millard J. (1998). Christian Theology. Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Baker Books.

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