Devotions this week are based on Week 6 How Would You Answer (WATCH HERE)
Ephesians 1:19-23 That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
Jesus is not merely remembered as a teacher from the past. He is not simply honored as a moral example. Ephesians 1:20 says God raised Jesus from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms. He is alive, exalted, and enthroned…“far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given”! Every power you can name, Jesus is above it. Every authority that seems intimidating, Jesus is above it. Every force that appears unstoppable, Jesus is above it.
Then Paul adds one of the most comforting phrases in the New Testament. God appointed Jesus “to be head over everything for the church.” Notice what Paul does not merely say. He does not only say Jesus is head of the Church, though that is true. He says Jesus is head over everything FOR the Church. His authority over all things is exercised for the good of His people and the fulfillment of His mission.
This does not mean the Church will always look powerful. Often, the Church looks weak. It gathers ordinary people. It depends on grace, prayer, Scripture, sacraments, service, generosity, and love. It does not always have cultural influence or worldly strength. Yet Ephesians tells us the Church belongs to the One who reigns over everything.
Think of a small child walking through a crowded airport while holding the hand of a strong and loving father. The child may not understand the announcements, the delays, the crowds, or the confusion. But the child is not alone. The father knows the way. The father holds the tickets. The father carries the bags. The father leads the child home. In a far greater way, the Church moves through history held by the reigning Christ.
This truth is deeply practical. When the world feels unstable, Jesus is not unstable. When culture shifts, Jesus is not surprised. When governments rise and fall, Jesus remains enthroned. When your own life feels out of control, your Savior is not pacing heaven wondering what to do next. He is seated at the right hand of the Father.
Psalm 110 says, “The Lord says to my lord: Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” The ascended Jesus rules presently and eternally. He reigns in this age, and He will reign in the age to come.
For the believer, this brings courage. For the Church, this brings confidence. Our hope is not in our size, our strength, our strategy, or our reputation. Our hope is in Christ, who is head over everything for the Church. The same Jesus who died for His people now rules for His people.
So today, do not measure the future by what you can control. Measure it by the One who controls it all. Jesus is not gone. He is in the heavens ruling all things for the benefit of His Church.
Reflect: What power, pressure, or fear feels large in your life right now? How does it change your perspective to remember that Jesus is head over everything for His Church?
Prayer: Ascended Lord Jesus, thank You that You reign above every power and authority. Help me trust Your rule when life feels uncertain. Strengthen Your Church with confidence, courage, and hope under Your loving authority. Amen.