What does real power look like? For some, it is being able to tell people what to do. For others, it is the opposite – not ever having anyone else tell you what to do! Power can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with all sorts of applications. But when the Apostle Paul wrote of the great power of God (Ephesians 1:19), he had something very specific in mind. He went on to describe the power of God as demonstrated in Christ. The power of God was evident in the resurrection and ascension of Christ, two great events that declared exactly who Jesus is. Jesus Christ is not only a man who lived a perfect and sinless life; He is also God, the God of power who reigns over all His and our enemies. Jesus is the power of the Church, which is His body. It is in Christ that the Church finds its source of strength in troubling times. It is in Christ that the Church finds hope. It is in Christ that the Church finds its purpose. Christ is the head of all things, and His headship exists for the benefit of the Church. What a blessing and comfort to know “The Exalted Christ” (Ephesians 1:20-23).

I. Exalted Over Death
A. Demonstration of God’s Power
B. Availability of Death-Conquering Power

II. Exalted Over All Things
A. Reigning Over All
B. Empowered Over All

III. Exalted For the Church
A. The Head of His Body
B. Empowering His Church

Questions for consideration: (1) How does Jesus’ power over death give you hope in everyday life? (2) What does the reality of Jesus’ reign over all things say about present “conventional wisdom” in the world? How does it affect your actions? (3) If Jesus is the head of the Church, what should that mean for your relationships with others in the Church? The way in which you live?