Learning from the Seated Christ

“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

‘Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

‘Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...

‘You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.'” Matthew 5:1-10,13-14,16-17

“The Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.” “Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you are seeing and hearing.” Mark 16:19; Acts 2:33

“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” “When Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.” “[Look] to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3; 10:12; 12:2

Jesus the Rabbi sat with His disciples to teach them how to live, addressing many areas of their daily lives with the application of His promises and power. He exemplified the fulfilling of God’s holy word by perfect obedience, thorough explanation, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. They listened, appropriated, and later were reminded of His lessons. (John 14:26; Matthew 4:1-10)

Today Jesus sits at God’s right hand and teaches us similarly to be victors, and prays we will be. He teaches from His vantage point of authority, experience, and victory. Having poured grace and love and truth into us unto salvation, He expects that we would extend grace and love to others and obey His Word in a combatant world. He teaches humility, honesty, and how to influence the lost and inquisitive. He fills, sustains, and guides as we attempt to live out His ways. (Romans 8:34; Ephesians 4:29-32)

When do we come sit at His feet with attentive hearts? How keenly do we listen, and how faithfully do we apply His teachings in particular situations? How can His triumph over temptation encourage us this day to be brave against the ancient foe?

Lord, help me apply every lesson from my conqueror King so Your power and name are praised.

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Author: astherainandsnow

I love God's word and the God of the word. Isaiah 55:10-11 describes my vision for the blog: as the Lord has displayed so beautifully in nature the work of His living word in man, I desire the words I write to show forth His glory in creation (my photographs and art of words) and His word so the truth of scripture takes deep root, grows, and bears much fruit- of spirit and praise to Him. To my Lord be all the glory for what He accomplishes through His word! ~P. Bunn

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