The true Christian's source of strength is far greater than those who believe in themselves or in others. Why?

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name:

That at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things 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

And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

- Matthew 24:30

As God's children grow in holiness and sanctification through the applying work of the Holy Spirit, they are being prepared for heaven while heaven is being prepared for them - both being the work of their exalted Savior.

The following story illustrates the rich comfort God's Church may experience when believing in Christ sitting at the right hand of God the Father in heaven.

An imprisoned, persecuted Christian in a communist country was called before his judges. The head judge fiercely asked him, "Do you realize we have full power over you - to kill or to free you?"

"You have much power, Sir," the prisoner answered calmly, "but not all. There is a Person above you in rank, to whom you must answer. He is a personal Friend of mine and will only let you do to me that which He desires for my benefit."

Who was this prisoner's Friend of highest rank? How can the truth of Jesus' words in Matthew 28:18b, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth," be of rich comfort and great strength in times of severe need and trial?

Is Christ's exalted position a source of praise, comfort, and strength in your life?

CHRIST'S SECOND COMING TO JUDGE ALL PEOPLE

All the previous steps of Christ's humiliation and exaltation have taken place; only His final step of exaltation has not yet been fulfilled - His coming again to judge the living and the dead. This final step of Jesus' exaltation is reserved for the end of the world.

Jesus Christ shall return, in His human nature, with great glory. All the dead shall rise, all earthly activities shall cease. All eyes shall see Him - clothed with great majesty and power.

God the Father has given to Christ the honor of judging in His Name. Christ's divine nature will display infinite majesty, knowledge, and power; His human nature will exhibit His perfect sinlessness and glory.