QUESTION: In Ephesians 1:20 it states that God has set Christ "at His own right hand in the heavenly places." In Psalm 139:10 David says, "Thy right hand shall hold me." What is the significance of the right hand?

ANSWER: The expression "right hand" is often used figuratively in the Bible to convey the following thoughts:

1. Power (Exodus 15:6; Matthew 26:64)
2. Honor (1 Kings 2:19; Psalm 110:1)
3. Salvation (Psalm 17:7; Psalm 60:5)
4. Support (Psalm 18:35; Isaiah 41:10)
5. Security (Psalm 139:10)
6. Love (Song of Solomon 2:6)

In verses referring to Christ—Ephesians 1:20; Psalm 110:1; Matthew 26:64 and many others—the right hand suggests the thought of power and honor. Mankind rejected and crucified the Lord Jesus, but God raised Him from the dead and set Him at His own right hand—the place of honor and glory. Men mocked the Lord Jesus by putting a reed—a sign of weakness—in His right hand (Matthew 27:29). But when He returns to earth again, He will be seen sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven (Matthew 26:64). The purpose of this coming, which takes place seven years after the rapture of the church to heaven, will be to judge the world. As King He will put those who have received His messengers on His right hand. They will be blessed. He will put those who have not received His messengers on his left hand. They will go into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:31-46).

In verses referring to believers—God's right hand of power suggests to us that we have salvation from difficulties, support in our trials, security and protection when danger threatens and love which always surrounds us. He has promised to not only hold us in His powerful right hand (Psalm 139:10), but also to hold our right hand. "For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee" (Isaiah 41:13). As we think of these promises we cannot help but say with the hymn writer:

"Lord, I would clasp Thy hand in mine,
Nor ever murmur nor repine,
Content, whatever lot I see,
Since 'tis my God that leadeth me!

He leadeth me, He leadeth me.
By His own hand He leadeth me.
His faithful follower I would be,
For by His hand He leadeth me. "

—John D. McNeil