Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Significance God's exaltation refers to the supreme and unparalleled position of honor, glory, and authority that God holds over all creation. This concept is central to Christian theology, emphasizing God's sovereignty, majesty, and the reverence due to Him. The exaltation of God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, underscoring His ultimate authority and the worship He rightfully deserves.
Biblical Foundations The exaltation of God is rooted in His nature as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. In the Old Testament, God's exaltation is often linked to His acts of creation, deliverance, and judgment. For instance, in
Psalm 46:10, God declares, "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." This passage highlights God's intention to be recognized and revered by all peoples.
In the New Testament, the exaltation of God is further revealed 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." Here, the exaltation of Christ is directly connected to the glory of God, demonstrating the unity of the Father and the Son in divine majesty.
Attributes of God's Exaltation 1.
Sovereignty: God's exaltation is closely tied to His sovereignty. As the supreme ruler, God's will is ultimate, and His purposes cannot be thwarted.
Isaiah 46:9-10 affirms, "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.'"
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Holiness: God's exaltation is also a reflection of His holiness. He is set apart, perfect, and pure, deserving of worship and adoration.
Isaiah 6:1-3 provides a vivid depiction of God's exalted holiness: "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. Above Him stood seraphim... And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth.'"
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Majesty: The majesty of God is an integral aspect of His exaltation.
Psalm 93:1 proclaims, "The LORD reigns, He is robed in majesty; the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is firmly established, it cannot be moved." This imagery conveys the grandeur and splendor of God's reign.
Responses to God's Exaltation 1.
Worship: The appropriate response to God's exaltation is worship. Believers are called to recognize His greatness and offer praise.
Psalm 99:5 exhorts, "Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His footstool; He is holy."
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Obedience: Acknowledging God's exaltation involves submitting to His authority and obeying His commands.
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 instructs, "And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?"
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Proclamation: Believers are also called to proclaim God's exaltation to others, sharing the message of His glory and salvation.
Psalm 96:3 encourages, "Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples."
Conclusion The exaltation of God is a foundational truth that permeates Scripture, calling believers to a life of worship, obedience, and proclamation. Through His sovereign rule, holiness, and majesty, God is exalted above all, deserving of the highest honor and praise.