The glorification of Jesus is a central theme in Christian theology, encapsulating the events and significance of Jesus Christ's resurrection, ascension, and exaltation at the right hand of God the Father. This glorification is seen as the culmination of His earthly ministry and the affirmation of His divine nature and mission.

Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is the foundational event of His glorification. According to the Gospels, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion, as He had foretold. This event is not only a testament to His victory over sin and death but also a demonstration of His divine authority. In the Berean Standard Bible, the angel at the tomb declares, "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6). The resurrection is celebrated as the ultimate proof of Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity.

Ascension

Following His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples over a period of forty days, teaching them and preparing them for the coming of the Holy Spirit. The ascension marks the moment when Jesus was taken up into heaven in the presence of His disciples. Acts 1:9-11 describes this event: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.'" The ascension signifies Jesus' return to His heavenly glory and His enthronement as King.

Exaltation

The exaltation of Jesus is the acknowledgment of His supreme authority and divine status. Philippians 2:9-11 states, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage highlights the universal recognition of Jesus' lordship and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Him.

Heavenly Intercession

In His glorified state, Jesus serves as the eternal High Priest, interceding on behalf of believers. Hebrews 7:25 affirms, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." This ongoing intercession underscores the continuous and active role of Jesus in the lives of His followers, providing them with grace and access to the Father.

Second Coming

The glorification of Jesus also points forward to His promised return. The New Testament consistently affirms that Jesus will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead. Revelation 1:7 proclaims, "Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen." This future event is anticipated as the final consummation of Jesus' glorification and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

In summary, the glorification of Jesus encompasses His resurrection, ascension, exaltation, heavenly intercession, and anticipated return. These events affirm His divine nature, His victory over sin and death, and His ongoing role as Lord and Savior.