OC | Question 49-51

49. Why the next words: “and is seated at the right hand of God”?

Christ ascended to heaven, there to show that he is head of his church,141 and that the Father rules all things through him.142

^ 141. Eph. 1:20-23; Col. 1:18
^ 142. Matt. 28:18; John 5:22-23

50. How does this glory of Christ our head benefit us?

First, through his Holy Spirit he pours out his gifts from heaven upon us his members.143 Second, by his power he defends us and keeps us safe from all enemies.144

^ 143. Acts 2:33; Eph. 4:7-12
^ 144. Ps. 110:1-2; John 10:27-30; Rev. 19:11-16

51. How does Christ’s return “to judge the living and the dead comfort you?”

In all my distress and persecution I turn my eyes to the heavens and confidently await as judge the very One who has already stood trial in my place before God and so has removed the whole curse from me.145 All his enemies and mine he will condemn to everlasting punishment: but me and all his chosen ones he will take along with him into the joy and the glory of heaven.146

^ 145. Luke 21:28; Rom. 8:22-25; Phil. 3:20-21; Tit. 2:13-14
^ 146. Matt. 25:31-46; 2 Thess. 1:6-10