The Event of Exaltation refers to the glorification and ascension of Jesus Christ following His resurrection. This pivotal event in Christian theology underscores the divine nature of Christ and His ultimate victory over sin and death. It is a cornerstone of Christian belief, affirming Jesus' position at the right hand of God the Father and His ongoing intercessory role for believers.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament provides several accounts and theological reflections on the exaltation of Christ. The Gospel of Mark succinctly records the ascension: "After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God" (Mark 16:19). This passage highlights the physical ascension and the subsequent enthronement of Christ in heaven.

In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke offers a detailed narrative of the ascension: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight" (Acts 1:9). This event marks the transition from Christ's earthly ministry to His heavenly reign and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

The Apostle Paul elaborates on the theological significance of Christ's exaltation in his epistles. In Philippians, he writes: "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names" (Philippians 2:9). This exaltation is a divine response to Christ's humility and obedience, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross.

Theological Implications

The exaltation of Christ is integral to understanding His dual nature as fully God and fully man. It affirms His divinity and His authority over all creation. The exaltation also signifies the completion of His redemptive work, as He now intercedes for believers as the High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 7:25).

Furthermore, the exaltation is a source of hope and assurance for Christians. It guarantees the future resurrection and glorification of believers, as Paul asserts: "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:6). This union with Christ in His exaltation is both a present spiritual reality and a future promise.

Christ's Ongoing Ministry

The exaltation of Christ is not merely a past event but an ongoing reality. As the exalted Lord, Jesus continues His ministry through the Holy Spirit, guiding and empowering the Church. His exaltation ensures His sovereign rule over the cosmos and His ultimate return in glory, as promised in Scripture: "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11).

Conclusion

The Event of Exaltation is a profound testament to the majesty and authority of Jesus Christ. It encapsulates His victory over death, His divine kingship, and His eternal priesthood, providing a foundation for Christian faith and hope.