5 Stages of Christ's Exaltation | The Greatness of Jesus Christ

The 5 Stages of Christ’s Exaltation (Various Scriptures) describe how God raised Jesus in glory through His resurrection, ascension, succession, intercession, and final exaltation. These stages reveal His finished work and present reign, assuring believers of salvation, ongoing care, and future hope under His supreme authority.

Key Takeaways – 5 Stages of Christ’s Exaltation

Jesus rose to secure your salvation. His resurrection proves victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:4), so you can trust Him with full confidence.
Jesus ascended and reigns in heaven. His ascension shows His authority and reminds you that He rules over every situation (Acts 1:9).
Jesus completed the work of redemption. In Christ’s Succession, He purged sin and took His place at God’s right hand, showing the work is finished (Hebrews 1:3).
Jesus intercedes for you daily. He stands as your advocate and speaks on your behalf, giving you assurance and access to God (Romans 8:34).
Jesus will receive universal worship. Every knee will bow to Him (Philippians 2:10–11), so respond now by trusting, obeying, and honoring Him as Lord.

5 Stages of Christ’s Exaltation

We have seen five stages of Christ’s exaltation that reveal His glory and power. He rose from the grave and proved His victory over sin and death. Jesus ascended to heaven and entered the Father’s presence in glory. He sat at God’s right hand, intercedes for us, and now reigns with supreme authority over all.

Now the question is simple and personal. Will you trust this risen and reigning Saviour with your life? Turn from sin and place your faith in Jesus Christ today. Receive His forgiveness, follow His Lordship, and rest in His power. He is worthy of your trust, your worship, and your full surrender.

1. Christ’s Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3–4)

“For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

A. He died for our sins (15:3)

Paul reminds the church of the gospel he received and preached, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, showing that His death was part of God’s perfect plan. Jesus did not die by accident but gave Himself willingly for us, and Isaiah 53:5 says He was wounded for our transgressions, as He took our place and paid our full penalty in complete obedience to the Father.

This truth meets us in our daily struggles with sin and guilt, because we know our failures yet Christ has already carried them to the cross. 1 Peter 2:24 says He bore our sins in His own body on the tree, and like a substitute He took our judgment so we can stand forgiven, accepted, and at peace before God.

B. He rose according to Scripture (15:4)

Paul declares that Christ was buried and rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, confirming that God fulfilled His promise just as He said. Jesus rose bodily from the grave, not spiritually but physically, and Psalm 16:10 points to His resurrection and victory over death, while the empty tomb proves that God accepted His sacrifice completely.

This truth gives us confidence in every season of life, because Christ lives and our faith stands on a firm foundation. Romans 4:25 says He was raised for our justification, so when life feels uncertain and heavy, the risen Christ assures us that God keeps His promises and brings victory through Him.

2. Christ’s Ascension (Acts 1:9)

“Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight” (Acts 1:9).

A. He departed from earth (1:9a)

Acts 1:9 tells us that while the disciples watched, Jesus was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. This moment marked the visible end of His earthly ministry after forty days of teaching and preparing them (Acts 1:3). He did not disappear quietly, but left in a clear, public way before their eyes.

This truth reminds us that Jesus completed His work on earth and now calls us to continue His mission. He told His disciples to be witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Like them, we may feel uncertain, yet we trust His plan and step forward in obedience, knowing He has not abandoned us.

B. He entered heaven’s glory (1:9b)

As the cloud received Him, Jesus entered heaven and returned to the presence of the Father in glory. This was not a loss, but a triumph, as He took His rightful place. Hebrews 9:24 says Christ entered heaven itself to appear in the presence of God for us, showing His work was accepted and complete.

This truth gives us comfort and confidence today, because our Saviour now stands in glory on our behalf. Colossians 3:1 calls us to seek those things above where Christ is. When life feels heavy, we lift our eyes heavenward, knowing our risen Lord reigns and our future is secure with Him.

3. Christ’s Session (Hebrews 1:3)

“Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Hebrews 1:3).

A. He purged our sin (1:3a)

Hebrews 1:3 declares that when Jesus had by Himself purged our sins, He completed a work no one else could do. He did not offer repeated sacrifices like the priests, but gave Himself once for all. Hebrews 9:26 says He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself, accomplishing full and final cleansing.

This truth brings deep assurance to our hearts today, because our sins are not partly forgiven but fully removed. Psalm 103:12 says God has removed our transgressions far from us. Like a stain washed clean, our guilt is gone through Christ, and we can live each day with confidence, freedom, and peace before God.

B. He sat at God’s right hand (1:3b)

After finishing His work, Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, showing that His sacrifice was complete and accepted. In Bible times, priests stood daily because their work was never finished, but Christ sat down once for all. Hebrews 10:12 confirms that He offered one sacrifice for sins forever.

This truth gives us strong confidence in uncertain times, because our Saviour now reigns with all authority. Ephesians 1:20 says God seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places. When life feels unstable, we remember that Christ rules over all, and nothing can separate us from His care and power.

4. Christ’s Intercession (Romans 8:34)

“Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us” (Romans 8:34).

A. He stands as our advocate (8:34a)

Romans 8:34 declares that Christ died, rose, and is at the right hand of God, and this secures our standing before Him. Jesus stands as our advocate in God’s presence, defending us against every charge. 1 John 2:1 says we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous, who upholds our justification.

This truth gives us confidence when we feel accused or unworthy. The enemy may remind us of our past, but Christ speaks for us with authority. Like a perfect defender in court, He presents His finished work on our behalf, so we stand accepted, declared righteous, and secure in God’s presence each day.

B. He speaks on our behalf (8:34b)

Romans 8:34 also tells us that Christ makes intercession for us, which means He continually brings our needs before the Father. Hebrews 7:25 says He always lives to make intercession for those who come to God through Him. Jesus does not forget us, but faithfully represents us in heaven.

This truth comforts us in every weakness and trial we face. When we do not know how to pray, Christ speaks for us with perfect understanding. Like a loving shepherd who cares for every sheep, He brings our needs before the Father, assuring us that we are never alone and always heard.

5. Christ’s Exaltation (Philippians 2:9–11)

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11).

A. He received the highest name (2:9)

Philippians 2:9 tells us that God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him the name above every name, declaring His supreme authority. After His humble obedience to death, God lifted Him to the highest place. Ephesians 1:21 says His name is above every rule and authority, showing that Christ reigns over all.

This truth calls us to trust and submit to His authority in our daily lives. When life feels uncertain, we remember that Jesus is not limited or distant, but sovereign over every detail. Like a king above all rulers, He holds all power, and we can rest in His control and follow Him with confidence.

B. He receives universal glory (2:10–11)

Philippians 2:10–11 declares that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This future moment includes all people, both willing and unwilling. Revelation 5:13 shows all creation giving honor and glory to the Lamb forever.

This truth urges us to respond now while we have opportunity. One day every person will acknowledge Christ, but today we can worship Him freely. Like people gathering before a king, we bow our hearts in surrender, knowing that honoring Jesus now brings joy, peace, and eternal reward.

Conclusion

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the glory of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. We praise You that Jesus died for our sins, rose again, and now reigns in power. Thank You that He intercedes for us and holds our future secure. Help us to see Him clearly, trust Him fully, and follow Him faithfully each day.

Lord, we ask that You work in every heart today. Draw us closer to You and strengthen our faith in every trial. For those who have not trusted Christ, lead them to repentance and saving faith. For believers, renew our devotion and obedience. May our lives honour Jesus as Lord, now and forever. We pray in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the 5 stages of Christ’s exaltation?

A: The 5 stages of Christ’s exaltation are His resurrection, ascension, succession, intercession, and final exaltation. These stages show how God raised Jesus in glory after His death, confirming His finished work and present authority as Lord over all (Philippians 2:9–11).

Q: Why is the resurrection important in Christ’s exaltation?

A: The resurrection proves that Jesus conquered sin and death and that God accepted His sacrifice (1 Corinthians 15:4). It gives believers assurance of salvation, new life, and future resurrection, making it the foundation of the gospel and Christian hope.

Q: What does Christ’s ascension mean for believers?

A: Christ’s ascension means Jesus returned to heaven and now reigns with authority (Acts 1:9). It assures believers that He rules over all things and prepares a place for them, giving confidence in His ongoing presence and sovereign care.

Q: What is Christ’s intercession and why does it matter?

A: Christ’s intercession means He continually represents believers before God (Romans 8:34). He stands as our advocate and brings our needs to the Father, giving us assurance of forgiveness, ongoing grace, and a secure relationship with God through Him.

Q: What does Christ’s exaltation teach us about the future?

A: Christ’s exaltation teaches that every person will one day recognize His lordship (Philippians 2:10–11). Believers can live with hope and confidence now, knowing Jesus reigns today and will receive universal worship, justice, and glory in the future.

Believer’s Bible Commentary by William MacDonald

BONUS: What is the difference between Christ’s humiliation and exaltation?

Christ’s humiliation describes how Jesus humbled Himself by becoming human and obeying the Father even to death on the cross. Philippians 2:6–8 shows that He took the form of a servant and died for our sins. He entered our broken world, bore our sin, and experienced suffering to accomplish redemption.

Christ’s exaltation describes how God raised Jesus in glory after His work was complete. Philippians 2:9–11 shows that God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name above every name. He rose, ascended, and now reigns as Lord, assuring believers of salvation, victory, and a secure future.

BONUS: Where is Jesus now according to the Bible?

The Bible teaches that Jesus is now in heaven at the right hand of God. Hebrews 1:3 says He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high after purging our sins. Acts 1:9 shows His ascension, and Colossians 3:1 calls us to seek things above where Christ is.

Jesus is not distant or inactive; He reigns and works on our behalf. Romans 8:34 says He intercedes for us, and Hebrews 7:25 says He always lives to make intercession. From His place of authority, He rules over all and cares for His people, giving us confidence, help, and hope.

BONUS: What does it mean that Jesus sits at the right hand of God?

Jesus sitting at the right hand of God means He holds the highest place of honor and authority. Hebrews 1:3 says He sat down after purging our sins, showing His work is complete. Psalm 110:1 declares His rule, and Ephesians 1:20–21 shows His authority over all powers and dominions.

This truth assures us that Jesus reigns and works for us today. Romans 8:34 says He intercedes for us, and Hebrews 7:25 says He saves completely those who come to God through Him. From this place of power, He governs all things and secures our salvation with confidence and care.

BONUS: How does Christ’s resurrection affect believers today?

Christ’s resurrection gives believers new life and living hope today. 1 Peter 1:3 says God has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because He lives, we are no longer bound by sin, and we share in His victory over death (Romans 6:4).

Christ’s resurrection also strengthens our daily faith and future confidence. Romans 8:11 says the Spirit who raised Jesus will give life to us. When we face trials, we remember that the same power that raised Christ now works in us, giving strength, courage, and assurance of eternal life.

BONUS: Why does Jesus intercede for believers in heaven?

Jesus intercedes for believers in heaven to represent us before the Father and secure our standing. Romans 8:34 says He is at God’s right hand making intercession for us. Hebrews 7:25 says He always lives to save those who come to God through Him, ensuring our salvation remains secure.

Jesus intercedes because we still face weakness, sin, and need. 1 John 2:1 says we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. When we fail or struggle, He speaks on our behalf, applying His finished work so we receive mercy, grace, and help in every time of need.

BONUS: What does Philippians 2:9–11 teach about Jesus’ authority?

Philippians 2:9–11 teaches that God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him the name above every name, declaring His supreme authority. Because of His obedience, God lifted Him to the highest place. Ephesians 1:21 confirms that His authority stands above every power, ruler, and dominion.

These verses also teach that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. This future reality includes all people and all creation. Revelation 5:13 shows all giving honor to Him, and this truth calls us to trust, obey, and worship Him now.

BONUS: Are there difference views to Christ’s final exaltation?

Some believers hold different views about the timing and expression of Christ’s final exaltation, especially in relation to His kingdom. Philippians 2:9–11 clearly declares that every knee will bow to Jesus. Revelation 19:16 presents Him as King of kings. These views differ in detail, but they agree that Christ will reign in visible glory.

Scripture assures us that Christ’s exaltation is certain, even when interpretations differ. 1 Corinthians 15:24–25 says He will reign until all enemies are under His feet. Dispensational teaching highlights a future earthly kingdom, while others see a present spiritual reign, yet all affirm that Jesus will receive universal honor and eternal authority.

Systematic Theology by Wayne A. Grudem

5 Stages of Christ’s Exaltation
Number	Main Point	Bible Verse	Meaning
1	Christ’s Resurrection	1 Corinthians 15:3–4	Jesus rose from the dead, proving His victory over sin and death and confirming God accepted His sacrifice.
2	Christ’s Ascension	Acts 1:9	Jesus returned to heaven in glory, showing the completion of His earthly ministry and His exalted position.
3	Christ’s Succession	Hebrews 1:3	Jesus purged our sins and sat at God’s right hand, showing His finished work and present authority.
4	Christ’s Intercession	Romans 8:34	Jesus continually represents believers before God, securing their standing and bringing their needs before the Father.
5	Christ’s Exaltation	Philippians 2:9–11	God exalted Jesus above all, and every person will one day bow and confess Him as Lord.