We Believe: Jesus Is Seated at the Right Hand of God

“Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.” - Mark 16:14 

Reflection 

Central to the Christian faith is the belief that Jesus, after His resurrection, ascended to Heaven and is now seated at the right hand of God. This phrase is more than symbolic; it carries deep theological meaning and offers profound comfort to believers. In Mark 16:14, we see Jesus appearing to the eleven apostles, confronting their doubts and challenging their lack of faith in the testimony of His resurrection. Despite their uncertainty, Jesus meets them at the table, speaks honestly, and prepares them for the mission ahead. His words and actions reveal the patience and authority of the risen Christ, who is about to take His rightful place beside the Father. 

The image of Jesus at the right hand of God is found throughout the New Testament. In ancient times, the right hand was the place of honor, power, and authority. When Scripture declares that Jesus is seated there, it affirms that He is exalted above all creation, sharing in the glory and sovereignty of God. He is not a distant figure, removed from the struggles and sorrows of humanity; rather, He is intimately involved, interceding for us, reigning as King, and ensuring that His victory over sin and death is applied to all who believe. 

Mark 16:14 is a reminder of the disciples’ very human response to the miraculous. Even those closest to Jesus found it difficult to accept the reality of His resurrection until He stood before them. Their doubts did not disqualify them; instead, Jesus addressed their hearts and commissioned them to carry His message to the world. This encounter offers reassurance to us today: our questions and uncertainties do not distance us from Christ. He meets us where we are, invites us to deeper faith, and empowers us for His purpose. 

When we declare, "Jesus is seated at the right hand of God," we confess that He has completed the work of redemption and occupies the highest place in the universe. His position is secure, His power is unmatched, and His love is unfailing. The risen and ascended Christ is not only our Savior but our Advocate, praying for us and guiding us as we walk in faith. In this truth, we find hope and strength for every circumstance. 

Personal Application 

Believing that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God invites us to live each day in the assurance of His authority and nearness. It means embracing the reality that He is not only victorious over death but actively involved in our lives. He sees every joy and sorrow, every challenge and triumph, and He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him. 

This truth can transform how we approach our struggles, doubts, and daily decisions. If Jesus reigns with power and compassion, then we can come to Him with confidence, knowing that our prayers are heard and our lives are held in His hands. We are not left to navigate life alone; the One who sits at the right hand of God is for us, not against us. 

Consider the disciples in Mark 16, wrestling with unbelief even after hearing the testimony of the resurrection. Jesus did not abandon them; He appeared, engaged their questions, and prepared them for the work ahead. In moments when our faith falters or our hearts grow weary, we can trust that Jesus is present, inviting us to greater faith and deeper trust. His position at the right hand of God assures us that nothing is beyond His reach, and no situation is too hopeless for His intervention. 

Let this assurance shape your perspective and actions. Bring your doubts, fears, and hopes to Jesus, knowing that He intercedes for you. Live with courage and purpose, confident that the One who reigns in Heaven is also at work in your life today. 

Thought-Provoking Questions 

1. How does knowing that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God influence your understanding of His authority and involvement in your life? 
2. In what areas do you struggle to believe that Jesus is actively interceding for you and reigning over your circumstances? 
3. How can embracing the truth of Jesus’ exaltation transform your approach to prayer, worship, and daily challenges? 
4. What might change in your relationships or outlook if you truly trusted in the power and presence of Christ at God’s right hand? 

Prayer 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the victory of Jesus and the assurance that He is seated at Your right hand. Help me to trust in His authority, to bring my doubts and fears before Him, and to live each day in confidence of His love and power. Teach me to rely on His intercession and guidance, to seek His presence in every moment, and to share His hope with others. May the truth of Christ’s exaltation fill my heart with peace and courage, and may I live as a witness to His grace and glory. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. 

Written by Sarah Leasure