Experiencing God's Presence #292

He raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 2:6

James and John had a lot of nerve. They wanted to sit on each side of Jesus’ throne in His Kingdom. Jesus didn’t tell them no, but He did explain how authority is granted in His Kingdom. It would be given to those who suffer and serve (Mark 10:35-45). Ruling with Him wasn’t a privilege to be granted lightly.

The other disciples were indignant that James and John had even asked. Was it because of their audacity, or because they got the idea before the rest of them did? Either way, the other disciples were appalled at the idea of two disciples being chosen above others to rule in the Kingdom. The request seemed so arrogant.

Surprisingly, the New Testament makes some remarkable statements about our role in the Kingdom. It tells us that we have been raised up with Jesus and seated with Him in heaven—already (Ephesians 2:6). It says we will judge the world (1 Corinthians 6:2). It encourages us to endure because we will reign with Him (2 Timothy 2:12). It calls us royal priests (1 Peter 2:9) and a Kingdom of priests (Revelation 1:6). And it says those who overcome will sit with Him on His throne (Revelation 3:21) and will reign on earth (Revelation 5:10). For some unfathomable reason, we are destined to reign.

We need to remember that not only is Jesus present with us, we are present with Him. That means we are with Him on His throne—and that, in some sense, He shares His authority with us. It’s an authority based in the humility of servanthood, but it’s high above all earthly authority. Even though we are by nature weak and can do nothing without Him, His Presence results in power. Whenever we find ourselves in a low place, we can appeal to a higher realm. Our prayers and faith are based on a heavenly position.

Jesus, thank You for raising me up with You. Teach me what it means to live in two realms and to exercise the authority of heaven.

From the book