The term Exaltation is rooted in the original Greek word ‘hypsoó,’ which is usually connected to the elevation of status, typically denoting honor, glorification, or praise. It represents a fundamental aspect of spiritual growth and development and is synonymous with spiritual promotion.
What Does Exaltation Implies in the Bible?
Exaltation in the Bible implies the act of raising to a higher rank or position, particularly in a spiritual context. It often takes the form of an honor or glory conveyed by God upon those who remain faithful and obedient to His instructions and commands. An example of this can be seen in the life of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection are often perceived as the ultimate act of exaltation. His obedience to God, even unto death, led to his exaltation at God’s right hand. This presents us with a clear demonstration of the principle that humility and obedience to God lead to the exaltation.
Why Is Exaltation Important in The Bible?
Exaltation is crucial in the Bible because it underpins the reward system framed by the moral and theological teachings. The Bible repeatedly celebrates those who live in humility and obedience, promising them exaltation either in this life or the life to come. It serves to encourage people to live righteously, with the understanding that those who humble themselves before God will be exalted by Him. By creating a direct correlation between humble behavior and a promised reward of exaltation, the Bible provides a clear roadmap for moral and spiritual behavior.
Who Receives Exaltation According to The Bible?
In the Bible, the promise of exaltation is open to everyone. Everyone who humbles themselves, serves others, and submits to the will of God can receive exaltation. Although displayed most profoundly in the life of Jesus Christ, the Bible is replete with other examples of individuals who were exalted due to their righteous living, faithfulness, and obedience. Figures like Moses, David, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, were all exalted because they obeyed God’s commandments and served Him faithfully.
When Is Exaltation Promised in The Bible?
The Bible does not specify a precise timeline for when exaltation will occur. It can come in one’s lifetime, as seen in the lives of several biblical figures. For others, exaltation might occur after death, represented in attaining eternal life with God. The Bible’s key message is that exaltation is assured for those who follow God’s will and live a life of service and humility. The timing of its fulfillment is left to God’s discretion.
Where Do We See Examples of Exaltation in The Bible?
Examples of exaltation are scattered across the Bible’s different books. The life of Joseph provides a clear example. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph remained faithful and obedient to God. His exaltation came when Pharaoh appointed him as a governor over Egypt. Similarly, Daniel, who was faithful to God while in exile, went on to become a high-ranking official in the Babylonian and Persian empires. The ultimate example, however, is Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection offer the most compelling demonstration of the Bible’s narrative on exaltation.
Below is our full list of bible verses on exaltation (King James Version – KJV) provided in ranked order.
Most Popular Bible Verses About Exaltation
Philippians 2:9-11
“9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Revelation 5:13
“13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.”
1 Peter 3:15
“15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:”
Related Themes: Hope Arguing Gentleness Reverence Preparation
Hebrews 5:5
“5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.”
1 Samuel 16:7
“7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
Related Themes: Pride Self-Esteem Criticism Vanity Heart
