The crucified Christ now reigns in glory. He who once bore our shame now wears majesty. Acts 5:31 declares with triumph that “God exalted Him to His right hand as Prince and Savior.” The One who stooped to serve is now exalted to rule. The One who died to save is now enthroned to forgive and to grant repentance.
But this exaltation is not for Him alone. Christ’s position in heaven is not merely a personal triumph—it is a representative exaltation. As the Mediator, Jesus sits at the Father’s right hand on our behalf. Every crown He wears, every honor He receives, carries with it an inheritance for His people.
One with Christ in His Exaltation
Believer, take this to heart: you are not merely a follower of Christ—you are one with Him. As Paul reminds us, “we are members of His body” (Ephesians 5:30). His exaltation is your promise. His throne is your future. His glory is your inheritance.
This is no exaggeration. Scripture affirms it: “To the one who is victorious, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21, BSB). Christ, our Prince and Savior, shares His royalty with His bride. He is not content to reign alone; He gathers His redeemed to share in His victory.
Like the bride adorned in gold of Ophir (Psalm 45:9), the Church is destined for royal dignity. Our Savior will not be glorified apart from His people. He is the Head, and we are the body. He is the Bridegroom, and we are His bride. The union is that close.
Look Up and Reign with Him
Let the eye of your faith rise above today’s struggles. See Jesus now, crowned with many crowns (Revelation 19:12), exalted, reigning, and yet ever mindful of you. This same Jesus is preparing a place for you. Though now you may be obscure in the world—poor in possessions or weary in affliction—you are royalty in waiting.
“He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.” (Revelation 1:6, BSB)
This is our calling: to endure with hope, to walk in humble faith, knowing that we will soon be seated with Christ. Be content to be little known here, for your name is already known in heaven.
What a thought! Christ is in heaven now, not only as Lord but as your glorious Representative. And soon, He will come again—not to rule alone, but to gather His bride and share His glory. Forever.
Hints for Preachers and Teachers
- Unpack “Prince and Savior”: Show how Jesus holds authority (Prince) and mercy (Savior) in perfect union.
- Emphasize union with Christ: Help listeners see how Christ’s glory guarantees their future hope.
- Point forward to the believer’s destiny: Draw connections to Revelation 3:21 and our shared reign with Christ.
- Use vivid imagery: The golden bride of Psalm 45, the throne of Revelation, and the coronation of Christ make for rich teaching visuals.
- Encourage perseverance: Remind believers that present afflictions are preparing them for eternal glory with Christ.
Conclusion
Jesus, once crucified, now reigns. He is exalted not only as the Son of God but as our Prince and Savior. His throne is not a solitary seat—it is a shared inheritance with His people. We are one with Him in life, in suffering, and in exaltation.
Though the path may be hidden and hard, remember this: you are royalty in Christ. Your Redeemer reigns, and because He reigns, so shall you.
A Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus, exalted at the right hand of the Father, we praise You as our Prince and Savior. Thank You that Your glory is our hope, and that Your throne will one day be our seat. Help us to walk humbly, to endure faithfully, and to rejoice in the promise of reigning with You. Keep our eyes fixed on You until the day we behold You in Your glory. Amen.
