Divine Exaltation refers to the act of God elevating individuals, particularly His Son, Jesus Christ, to a position of honor, glory, and authority. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and is a central theme in both the Old and New Testaments. It underscores the sovereignty of God in bestowing honor and authority according to His divine will and purpose.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament provides numerous instances where God exalts individuals for His purposes. A prominent example is the account of Joseph, who, despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, is exalted by God to become the second most powerful man in Egypt (Genesis 41:39-41). This exaltation serves God's greater plan of preserving the Israelites during a time of famine.

Another significant example is King David. Chosen by God from humble beginnings as a shepherd, David is exalted to become the king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 2:7, Hannah's prayer acknowledges God's power to exalt: "The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts."

Messianic Prophecies and Fulfillment

The concept of Divine Exaltation is profoundly expressed in the messianic prophecies concerning Jesus Christ. Isaiah 52:13 prophesies, "Behold, My Servant will prosper; He will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted." This prophecy points to the future exaltation of the Messiah, fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the exaltation of Jesus Christ is a central theme. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage highlights the ultimate exaltation of Christ following His humility and obedience unto death.

The resurrection and ascension of Jesus are pivotal events that signify His exaltation. Acts 2:33 declares, "Exalted, then, to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear." This exaltation affirms Jesus' divine authority and His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

Exaltation of Believers

The New Testament also speaks of the future exaltation of believers. James 4:10 encourages, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This promise of exaltation is contingent upon humility and submission to God's will. Believers are assured that their faithfulness will be rewarded in God's perfect timing.

1 Peter 5:6 reiterates this promise: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This future exaltation is not only a reward but also a participation in the glory of Christ, as believers are united with Him.

Conclusion

Divine Exaltation is a testament to God's sovereign will and His ability to elevate individuals for His purposes. It is most perfectly exemplified in the exaltation of Jesus Christ, whose obedience and sacrifice led to His glorification. Believers are called to emulate Christ's humility, with the assurance that God will exalt them in due time.