“Seated With Christ”
Sermon Title: Seated With Christ
Scripture: Ephesians 1:18-21; 2:4-7 ESV
Introduction
One of the ongoing challenges we face in the church is our limited view of the Resurrection. We often treat it as either a historical event from 2,000 years ago, celebrated on Easter, or something we anticipate in the distant future, when we’ll be resurrected at the Lord’s return. Many don’t even look that far ahead, thinking we’ll simply spend eternity floating in heaven. But we’re actually headed for Resurrection—new bodies and a New Creation. The problem is that we miss the present reality. The Resurrection isn’t just a past event or future hope—it’s something we’re meant to experience daily. This is the heart of what Paul is teaching in Ephesians.
Paul spent three years in Ephesus sharing the gospel, but his goal wasn’t just to deliver a message. He wanted the church to grow deeper in their walk with God. That’s why, in his letter, he starts by telling them who they are in Christ. He makes it clear that their identity is rooted in what Christ has already done. Before telling them what they should do for Christ, he emphasizes what God has done for them in Christ. This order is essential—everything we do flows from what Christ has done.
Paul stresses that because we are in Christ, we have a position and status with God. Yet, the danger for the church, both then and now, is that we fail to live in the fullness of that status. Paul’s desire is for the church to truly experience their position in Christ.
In Ephesians 2:5-6, Paul explains that by God’s grace, we’ve been made alive with Christ, raised with Him, and seated with Him in heavenly places. To grasp this fully, we need a deeper theological understanding. Paul’s view of the Resurrection contrasts with the traditional Jewish perspective, and understanding this difference is key to what he’s presenting in Ephesians.
Resurrection Theology: Jewish vs. Christian
Understanding Resurrection in Jewish Theology
In Jewish theology, the concept of resurrection is deeply embedded in their eschatological beliefs. Resurrection is not viewed as an immediate event following death; rather, it is anticipated as a future occurrence at the end of the ages. The resurrection is associated with the arrival of the Messiah, who will come to redeem the Jewish people and establish God’s reign on Earth. This belief is supported by various scriptures, such as Daniel 12:2, which states, "Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt." This verse illustrates the collective resurrection that is expected to happen at the culmination of human history, emphasizing that all will be resurrected together, reinforcing the communal aspect of resurrection in Jewish thought.
The Challenge of Easter
The resurrection of Jesus introduces a significant divergence from Jewish expectations. In Christianity, Jesus' resurrection occurs just three days after his crucifixion, presenting a unique narrative that deviates from the Jewish eschatological timeline. This presents a theological conflict for those who adhere to traditional Jewish beliefs, as only Jesus is resurrected, while the Jewish expectation is for a simultaneous resurrection of all the dead. This raises critical questions about the nature of the Messiah and the fulfillment of God's promises, challenging the very framework of Jewish resurrection theology.
The Age of Satan and the Reign of God
In Jewish theology, the present era is often characterized as the "age of Satan," a time marked by suffering, injustice, and moral decay. This age is seen as a time of trial, where the faithful endure oppression and await divine intervention. The belief is that when the Messiah arrives, he will resurrect the dead and initiate the reign of God, bringing an end to the age of suffering.
Conversely, Christian theology asserts that Jesus' resurrection signifies the beginning of God's reign, although it is not fully realized. This introduces the concept of living in an "already but not yet" state, where the kingdom of God is present but not yet completed. This transitional period is marked by a coexistence of good and evil, as believers experience both divine blessings and earthly struggles. As the early Church believed, Jesus’ resurrection is not just a future hope; it represents a transformative reality that reshapes the understanding of life, death, and resurrection.
Our Standing in Christ
Seated with Christ
Paul’s declaration that believers are "raised up with Christ and seated with him" in the heavenly realms serves as a cornerstone of Christian identity. This profound statement underscores the transformative power of the gospel, emphasizing that believers have a new status in relation to God. They are not defined by their past failures or societal standings but by their relationship with Jesus. This spiritual reality allows believers to approach God with confidence, knowing they are accepted and loved.
1. Status with God
The concept of status is foundational in Paul’s writings. Believers are seated with Christ not due to their accomplishments or piety, but solely because of their faith in Him. This status grants them direct access to God, breaking down barriers that may have once kept them at a distance. For example, in Ephesians 2:6, Paul affirms, "And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus." This signifies that believers enjoy a privileged position before God, comparable to being in the presence of a dignitary due to their association with Jesus. Believers, regardless of their perceived worthiness, can claim their identity in Christ, knowing they are welcomed into God’s presence because they are "with Him."
2. Significance
The second aspect of being seated with Christ is the inherent significance that comes with this status. Paul writes to a marginalized church, reminding them that while they may lack social, political, or economic power, their connection with Christ grants them significance in the eyes of God. In a society that often equates worth with power and influence, Paul’s message offers hope and affirmation.
In Galatians 3:28, Paul emphasizes this significance by declaring, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This radical inclusivity illustrates that every believer, regardless of their background or circumstances, holds value in God’s kingdom.
Your worth and significance is rooted in their relationship with Christ. The message is clear: God sees each individual as valuable, capable of contributing meaningfully to His purposes.
3. Stability
Finally, the stability that comes from being seated with Christ is a profound reassurance, especially in times of turmoil. Paul writes about this stability from prison, facing death, yet he exudes confidence in his identity and position in Christ. This paradox highlights that true stability does not stem from external circumstances but from a secure relationship with Jesus.
In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul exhorts believers to "set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." This perspective shift helps believers navigate the uncertainties of life with assurance. The authority associated with being "seated" alongside Christ signifies that believers can find strength and peace, even in difficult situations. Despite the chaos of the world, whether personal struggles or global crises, believers can find stability in their identity in Christ. This assurance encourages them to stand firm in faith, knowing that they are anchored in the love and power of God.
While Jewish theology anticipates a collective resurrection at the end of time, Christian theology proclaims that through Jesus’ resurrection, believers are granted a new status, significance, and stability in their lives. The assurance of being seated with Christ provides profound comfort and empowerment, affirming that regardless of their earthly circumstances, believers are valued, significant, and anchored in God’s eternal kingdom. This theological understanding not only shapes their identity but also equips them to navigate the complexities of life with hope and purpose.
The Reality of Our Seating with Christ
Identifying Our Problems
Even with the profound truths of status, significance, and stability that come from being seated with Christ, we face two significant challenges in our spiritual lives.
1. Not Knowing Where We’re Seated
The first challenge is that many of us lack awareness regarding where we are spiritually seated. Too often, we live unaware of the blessings and privileges available to us through our relationship with Christ.
Let me share a personal story. Back in high school, during a summer trip, I was waiting for a connecting flight when a generous passenger yielded his business class seat to me. Excited but oblivious to the amenities that came with it, I initially missed out on the full experience. It was only later that I discovered I could order meals and enjoy exclusive comforts.
This story is a metaphor for many Christians today. While we are spiritually seated in the heavenly realms, we often remain unaware of the "spiritual blessings" available to us. As Paul states in Ephesians 1:3, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places." Understanding our position in Christ unlocks access to these blessings, but many of us still walk in darkness regarding our true spiritual location.
2. Seating Ourselves in the Wrong Places
The second issue is that we often choose to sit in "wrong seats"—places that do not reflect our identity in Christ. These wrong seats can represent feelings of shame, anxiety, and insecurity. Many of us may have remained in seats of shame for years, trapped in cycles of condemnation and fear.
This problem goes beyond mere choices; it reflects where we place our trust. We tend to rely on transient or unstable seats, such as our jobs, relationships, possessions, or achievements, believing they will provide fulfillment or security. However, these worldly seats are ultimately insufficient and will fail under pressure.
Paul’s message is clear: there is a more stable seat—the seat of Jesus. This seat offers the security and stability that worldly achievements cannot. I urge you to rise from those wrong seats and claim your rightful place with Christ, where "every spiritual blessing" awaits you.
Conclusion: Embracing Our Identity in Christ
In conclusion, understanding that we are seated with Christ is essential for living out a powerful and effective Christian life. This seating is described in the past tense in Paul’s writings. It is not a future promise but a present reality: "you are seated with Christ." This truth remains unchanged, regardless of life’s chaotic circumstances.
No amount of good deeds or spiritual practices can earn a seat with Christ; it is a gift received through surrender to Him.
Whether you have been a long-time believer or are new to the faith, you are equally seated in the same position, based not on performance but on faith.
The core issue is not whether we are seated, but whether we recognize and live out the reality of that seating. God assures us that because we are seated with Christ, we have status, significance, and stability in our lives.
So, let’s embrace this transformative truth and allow it to shape our identities. In a world that often measures worth by achievements or failures, remember that your true identity and worth are anchored in your relationship with Christ. You possess status with God, significance in His Kingdom, and stability in His promises, equipping you to navigate life with confidence and hope.
Reflection
Think about where you have been seated in your life. You have been seated with Christ.. and all the spiritual blessings have been granted to you.. but have you been living your life with the awareness of this reality?
For this week, as you are seated in many different places of your lives… as you sit on the TTC on your way to school and work, as you sit at your school or office desk, as you sit in your living room couch after a long day of taking care of your responsibilities…every time you are seated anywhere… may the Holy Spirit remind you that you are also seated with Christ.