21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.
Because Christ sits at the right hand of the Father, He now possesses the full authority of the Father. There is no authority greater than the Father’s.
far above all
God exalted Christ by His ascension above every order of authority, whether human or angelic. The scope of Christ’s victory was universal, even over cosmic powers. His exaltation was not only above but “far above” any other power or authority.
principality [rule] and power [authority] and might and dominion,
All terms in this phrase refer to various classes of angels. Paul used terms of power because of the exalted nature of angels. The Father placed all forms of authority, whether angelic or demonic, under the dominion of the Lord Jesus.
and every name [title] that is named,
Again, this phrase shows the universal rule over any cosmic force anywhere (Php 2:6-11). Because the above list of authorities is not exhaustive, Paul made a comprehensive statement that includes any other authority that could possibly exist.
not only in this age
“This age” is the present age, the present state of things.
but also in that which is to come.
This is the future state of things; Jesus will rule in the Millennium and He will rule forever. Nothing will eclipse the name of Christ, even in the kingdom and eternity.
PRINCIPLE:
The victory of Christ in His session at the right hand of God is the victory of the believer as well.
APPLICATION:
It is important that believers understand the greatness of the person of Christ who empowers them. Christians can claim Christ’s superiority over the powers of this world. There is no excuse for allowing evil to defeat us. The ascension of Christ placed Him above any other being in the universe. His seat at the right hand of the Father indicates His defeat of any and all enemies (Ps 110:1).
God made spiritual forces in the world subject to Jesus because He is exalted above them. We have the authority to take our case against spiritual battles to God (Jas 4:7). We do not resist Satan in our own strength but submit ourselves to God. When we do this, Satan will flee from us. The challenge is to remember the power of the resurrection of Christ (2 Ti 2:8-10).
