Who was Majesty?
In Hebrews 1:3, the term Majesty does not refer to a person but to the exalted position of God the Father, specifically in the heavenly realm. The phrase “the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” is a poetic and theological expression used to describe the supreme and sovereign authority of God. It highlights the enthronement of Jesus Christ beside the Father, affirming both the divine glory of the Son and the eternal kingship of the Father.
The Greek word for Majesty here is “Μεγαλοσύνης” (megalosynēs), which means greatness, magnificence, or grandeur. It is a rare word in the New Testament, occurring only in Hebrews 1:3 and 8:1. This term is used as a reverent circumlocution for God Himself, emphasizing His infinite superiority and supreme power.
Biblical References
- Hebrews 1:3 – “After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.”
- Hebrews 8:1 – “We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven.”
The term Majesty functions as a divine title, drawing attention to the holiness and absolute rule of God.
Cross-References
- Psalm 110:1 – “The Lord says to my lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’”
- Daniel 7:13-14 – A vision of the Son of Man being given authority and glory by the Ancient of Days.
- Philippians 2:9-11 – God exalted Christ and gave Him the name above every name.
- Revelation 5:11-13 – Worship of the Lamb who sits on the throne, receiving honor and power.
What Happened in the Bible?
In Hebrews 1, the writer establishes the superiority of Christ over angels by emphasizing His divine nature, His role in creation, and His enthronement at the right hand of God. After making purification for sins—a reference to His atoning death on the cross—Jesus sat down at the right hand of “the Majesty in heaven.” This act of sitting indicates the completion of His redemptive work and His sharing in the divine reign.
The phrase “Majesty in heaven” functions as a reverent reference to God the Father. It expresses awe and honor without invoking the name of God directly, a practice consistent with Jewish tradition to preserve the sanctity of God‘s name.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
For Christians today, “Majesty” is a reminder of the greatness of God and the exalted position of Christ. It affirms that Jesus is not only Savior but also reigning Lord, sharing in the very authority and glory of God the Father. This truth gives believers confidence that Christ‘s sacrifice was fully accepted and that He now intercedes with divine authority on our behalf (Hebrews 7:25).
It also assures the church that despite trials or opposition, the risen Christ reigns. He is not distant or passive but seated in power, guiding history toward its ordained fulfillment.
How the Term “Majesty” Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The use of Majesty in Hebrews 1 draws attention to Jesus‘ unique identity as both Son and King. His enthronement at the right hand of Majesty signifies His exaltation following His obedient suffering and substitutionary death. This exaltation fulfills Old Testament prophecy and demonstrates that Jesus, fully God and fully man, has accomplished redemption and now reigns eternally.
The gospel is rooted in the truth that the same Jesus who humbled Himself to die for sinners now sits enthroned in majesty. His seat at the right hand of God is not only a reward but a declaration of His divine equality, His finished work, and His ongoing role as our intercessor.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Divine Sovereignty
The term Majesty underscores the supreme authority of God over all creation. God‘s rule is not abstract but personal, glorious, and absolute.
2. Christ’s Exaltation
Jesus’ placement at the right hand of Majesty reflects the doctrine of exaltation—He was lifted from humiliation to honor. This fulfills Psalm 110 and mirrors the movement from cross to crown.
3. Heavenly Priesthood
Hebrews 8:1 describes Jesus as the high priest who sits beside the Majesty. His priestly ministry continues in heaven, offering eternal mediation.
4. God’s Holiness and Glory
Majesty expresses God‘s unapproachable light, transcendent splendor, and moral perfection. It conveys awe and reverence for the divine.
Reflection Questions
- What does the phrase “Majesty in heaven” reveal about God’s character?
- How does knowing Christ sits at the right hand of Majesty give you comfort or courage in your daily life?
- In what ways can you cultivate reverence for God‘s majesty in your worship?
- How does the exaltation of Christ affect your understanding of the gospel?
- What does it mean for you personally that Jesus intercedes for you at the right hand of Majesty?
The title Majesty in Hebrews is not just a poetic flourish—it is a profound theological declaration. It assures believers that the one who redeemed them now reigns over all, embodying the perfect union of divine glory and redeeming grace.