One of the most powerful and comforting teachings in Christianity is that Jesus Christ is at the right hand of the Father, making intercession for believers. This truth, found throughout the New Testament, assures Christians that Jesus is not only their Savior but also their advocate and mediator before God.
The concept of Christ’s intercession is deeply rooted in biblical theology and reflects His ongoing role in the lives of believers. In this topic, we will explore the meaning of Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father, His role as an intercessor, and what it means for Christians today.
The Right Hand of the Father in Scripture
The phrase “right hand of the Father” appears multiple times in the Bible, symbolizing authority, power, and honor. In ancient times, the right hand was a position of great importance, often signifying a place of favor and rule.
- Mark 16:19 – “After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up into heaven and sat at the right hand of God.”
- Hebrews 1:3 – “After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
These verses affirm that after Jesus’ death and resurrection, He ascended to heaven and took His rightful place of power beside God the Father.
What Does “Right Hand of the Father” Mean?
The right hand of God represents several key biblical truths:
- Authority and Sovereignty – Jesus reigns over all creation with full divine authority.
- Victory Over Sin and Death – His exaltation confirms that He has conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness.
- Intercession for Believers – Jesus actively prays and advocates for those who trust in Him.
This position is not passive but signifies that Christ continues to work on behalf of His people.
Jesus as Our Intercessor
What Is Intercession?
Intercession means to stand in the gap and plead on behalf of another. When Jesus intercedes for believers, He is essentially acting as a divine advocate, speaking to the Father on their behalf.
- Romans 8:34 – “Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died-more than that, who was raised-who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”
- Hebrews 7:25 – “Therefore, He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.”
These verses assure Christians that Jesus is continuously praying for them, ensuring that their sins are forgiven and that they are strengthened in their faith.
Why Do We Need Jesus to Intercede for Us?
Even after salvation, believers still struggle with sin, temptation, and weakness. Jesus’ role as an intercessor means that He:
- Defends us against accusations from Satan (Revelation 12:10).
- Prays for our faith to remain strong (Luke 22:31-32).
- Advocates for our forgiveness and restoration (1 John 2:1-2).
This ongoing priestly role ensures that no matter how imperfect or weak a believer feels, they are never alone before God.
How Does Jesus Intercede for Us?
1. As the High Priest of the New Covenant
In the Old Testament, high priests interceded for the people by offering sacrifices for their sins. Jesus, as the perfect High Priest, offered Himself as the final and complete sacrifice.
- Hebrews 4:14-16 – “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”
Unlike earthly priests, Jesus does not need to offer repeated sacrifices. His death on the cross was enough to secure eternal redemption.
2. By Presenting His Blood Before the Father
When Jesus intercedes, He does so by reminding the Father of His finished work on the cross. His shed blood speaks on behalf of every believer, ensuring their forgiveness and acceptance.
- Hebrews 9:24 – “For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made with human hands… but He entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence.”
3. Through the Holy Spirit’s Work in Believers
Jesus’ intercession is closely connected with the Holy Spirit’s work in the lives of believers.
- Romans 8:26-27 – “The Spirit helps us in our weakness… the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.”
The Holy Spirit prays in alignment with Jesus’ will, guiding and strengthening believers in their spiritual walk.
The Impact of Jesus’ Intercession on Believers
1. Assurance of Salvation
Because Jesus prays for His followers, they can have confidence that their salvation is secure.
- John 10:28-29 – “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of My hand.”
Jesus is constantly interceding to ensure that no believer is lost.
2. Strength in Times of Weakness
Every Christian faces moments of doubt, struggle, and failure. Knowing that Jesus is praying for them gives strength and encouragement.
- Luke 22:31-32 – Jesus said to Peter, “Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.”
Even when believers fail, Jesus’ prayers ensure that they are restored and continue in faith.
3. Victory Over the Enemy
Satan is described as the accuser of believers (Revelation 12:10), constantly trying to condemn them before God. However, because Jesus is at the right hand of the Father, His intercession ensures that no accusation can stand.
- 1 John 2:1 – “If anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”
No accusation, failure, or past sin can separate believers from God’s love and grace because Jesus is constantly defending them.
4. Confidence in Prayer
Because Jesus intercedes, believers can approach God with boldness and confidence.
- Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Christ’s position at God’s right hand assures Christians that their prayers are heard and answered.
The truth that Jesus is at the right hand of the Father, making intercession is a profound source of hope and encouragement. His role as an advocate, High Priest, and mediator ensures that believers are never alone in their spiritual journey.
Through His constant intercession, Christians have:
- Assurance of their salvation.
- Strength in times of weakness.
- Victory over accusations and condemnation.
- Confidence to approach God in prayer.
As followers of Christ, we can rest in the truth of His ongoing work in heaven, knowing that Jesus is always praying for us, standing on our behalf, and securing our place in God’s eternal kingdom.
