The exaltation of God above all is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing His supreme authority, majesty, and holiness. This concept underscores the belief that God is the ultimate sovereign, deserving of all worship, honor, and praise. The Scriptures consistently affirm God's unparalleled greatness and His position above all creation.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding God's exaltation. In the book of Exodus, God reveals Himself to Moses as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), signifying His self-existence and eternal nature. The Psalms frequently celebrate God's exalted status. Psalm 97:9 declares, "For You, O LORD, are Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods." This verse highlights God's supremacy over any other deity or power.

Isaiah's vision of God in the temple further illustrates His exaltation: "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of His robe filled the temple" (Isaiah 6:1). This imagery conveys God's majestic presence and His authority over all earthly rulers.

New Testament Revelation

The New Testament continues to affirm God's exaltation, particularly through the person and work of Jesus Christ. 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 reveals that Jesus, as God incarnate, shares in the Father's exaltation and is worthy of universal worship.

In the book of Revelation, the exaltation of God is vividly portrayed in the heavenly worship scenes. Revelation 4:11 proclaims, "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created." This acknowledgment of God's creative power and authority underscores His rightful place above all.

Theological Implications

The exaltation of God above all has profound theological implications. It affirms God's sovereignty, meaning that He exercises ultimate control over the universe. This belief provides comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that God's purposes will prevail despite human or demonic opposition.

Moreover, God's exaltation calls for a response of worship and obedience. As the Creator and Sustainer of all things, God deserves the highest reverence and devotion. The call to worship is echoed in Psalm 99:5: "Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at His footstool; He is holy."

Practical Applications

Understanding God's exaltation influences the believer's daily life. It encourages humility, as humans recognize their position in relation to an all-powerful God. It also inspires trust, knowing that God is in control and His plans are perfect. Furthermore, it motivates evangelism, as believers seek to proclaim the greatness of God to all nations.

In summary, the exaltation of God above all is a foundational biblical truth that permeates both the Old and New Testaments. It affirms God's supreme authority, calls for worship and obedience, and provides assurance of His sovereign rule over all creation.