Who Is Gone into Heaven, And Is on the Right Hand of God (1 Peter 3:22)

2023-09-23

Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (1 Peter 3:22)

Another key to Jesus’ ascension to heaven compared to others is that He sat at the right hand of the Father and all spiritual powers became subject to him.

For a review of what it means to be at the right hand, go here. Jesus was enthroned in a place of prominence and power. Enoch, Elijah, and the rest did not receive this glory. The book of Hebrews speaks at length about how Jesus went into the heavenly sanctuary a single time, showing Himself superior to any earthly priest.

Also, to whom do spirits bow save our Lord Jesus Christ? Do they bow to Enoch, Elijah, Paul, or the thief on the cross, who also went into heaven? Only our Lord may receive this honor. Only He is worthy to receive such authority. To whom did the elders and beasts sing, but Jesus? “Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth” (Revelation 5:9-10). And the angels sang, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing” (Revelation 5:12)

The 24 elders were conscious men in heaven, but they did not receive any glory like the Lord.

When the Scriptures say “no man hath ascended up to heaven” in John 3:13, we see that many have gone into heaven, but this ascension refers to the honor and authority that the Lord received that no one else can receive. Read further.