How was Christ exalted in his resurrection?
Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen corruption in death, (of which it was not possible for him to be held,) and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the essential properties thereof, (but without mortality, and other common infirmities belonging to this life,) really united to his soul, he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power; whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God, to have satisfied divine justice, to have vanquished death, and him that had the power of it, and to be Lord of quick and dead: all which he did as a public person, the head of his church, for their justification, quickening in grace, support against enemies, and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day.
Christ’s Exaltation in Resurrection: The Dawn of a New Age
The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands as a monumental event in Christian theology, signifying not only His triumph over death but also His exaltation to a position of supreme authority and glory. The Westminster Shorter Catechism concisely articulates the various facets of Christ’s exaltation in His resurrection: “Not having seen corruption in death…and having the very same body in which he suffered…he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power; whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God, to have satisfied divine justice, to have vanquished death, and him that had the power of it, and to be Lord of quick and dead.”
A Triumph over Death and Decay
Scripture unequivocally affirms the reality of Christ’s resurrection. Acts 2:24 declares that God raised Him up, “putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.” This verse, quoting Psalm 16:10, underscores the impossibility of decay or corruption touching the body of Christ. Luke 24:3 further confirms the empty tomb, indicating that the body of Jesus was not there.
This resurrection was not merely a resuscitation but a transformation. Christ emerged from the grave with a glorified body, free from the limitations of mortality. Romans 6:9 proclaims, “We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.” This triumph over death is not only a testament to Christ’s divine power but also a promise of eternal life for those who believe in Him.
Declaration of Sonship and Victory
Christ’s resurrection served as a powerful declaration of His divine Sonship. Romans 1:4 states that He “was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead.” This event solidified His authority and confirmed the truth of His claims.
Furthermore, the resurrection demonstrated Christ’s complete victory over Satan, the one who held the power of death (Hebrews 2:14). Revelation 1:18 declares, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” This declaration signifies Christ’s authority over the realms of death and the afterlife.
Lord of the Living and the Dead
In His resurrection, Christ is revealed as the Lord of both the living and the dead (Romans 14:9). This Lordship encompasses all of creation and extends to both those who are alive physically and those who have passed from this life. It is a testament to His universal reign and His authority to judge all humanity.
Head of the Church and Firstfruits of the Resurrection
Christ’s resurrection holds profound implications for the Church. As the “head of the body, the church” (Colossians 1:18), His resurrection ensures the life and vitality of His people. It is also the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20), guaranteeing the future resurrection of all believers.
Justification, Quickening, and Support
The resurrection of Christ is intimately linked to the justification of believers (Romans 4:25). It is through His death and resurrection that we are declared righteous before God and receive the gift of eternal life. Furthermore, His resurrection brings about spiritual quickening, empowering us to live in newness of life (Ephesians 2:1, 5-6).
Finally, the resurrected Christ is the source of strength and support for believers in their ongoing struggle against sin and the forces of evil (1 Corinthians 15:25-27). He has conquered the ultimate enemy, death, and assures His followers of their own resurrection at the last day.
The exaltation of Christ in His resurrection is a foundational doctrine of the Christian faith, filled with profound implications for believers. It is a testament to God’s power, love, and faithfulness. It assures us of our forgiveness, our hope of eternal life, and our ultimate victory over sin and death through the risen Christ. As we celebrate the resurrection, let us be filled with gratitude, awe, and unwavering faith in the One who conquered death and reigns forevermore.
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