The exaltation of Christ is His being lifted to the highest place of honor after His resurrection and ascension, where He reigns in glory as Lord over all.
The story of Jesus does not end with the cross or even the resurrection. After His suffering came His exaltation. Exaltation means being lifted up, raised high, honored above all. The Bible teaches that because of Christ’s obedience unto death, “God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9).
The exaltation of Christ assures us that the One who was humiliated for our sins is now glorified as our Lord and King.
1. The Path to Exaltation
Jesus’ exaltation followed His humiliation. He humbled Himself by becoming man, serving others, and dying on a cross (Philippians 2:6–8). Because of this, God lifted Him up. The exaltation shows that the Father accepted His sacrifice and rewarded His obedience.
2. The Seat of Exaltation
The exalted Christ now sits at the right hand of God (Hebrews 1:3). This is the position of highest authority and power. From there, He rules over all things—the Church, the nations, and the universe itself (Ephesians 1:20–22).
3. The Name of Exaltation
God gave Jesus the “name above every name” (Philippians 2:9). That name is Lord. One day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10–11).
4. The Work of Exaltation
As the exalted Lord, Jesus intercedes for His people (Romans 8:34), pours out His Spirit (Acts 2:33), and builds His Church (Matthew 16:18). His exaltation is not passive—it is active. He reigns, He rules, and He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
5. The Future of Exaltation
Christ’s exaltation will be fully revealed at His return. Then every eye will see Him, every heart will know Him, and every voice will acknowledge His glory. What is true now by faith will be visible to the world.
Why This Matters
The exaltation of Christ is our hope and assurance. We do not follow a defeated teacher—we follow a risen and reigning King. His exaltation guarantees that His promises will stand, His power will prevail, and His people will share in His glory.
Faith Lesson
Lift your eyes to the exalted Christ. Worship Him as Lord. Trust Him with your life. Live with confidence knowing your Savior is not in the grave but on the throne, and one day you will reign with Him.