How would things be different if Jesus sat "at the left hand of the Father"?

In Christianity, it is believed that Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God the Father in heaven. This is a position of honor and authority, symbolizing that Jesus is equal with God in power and glory. But what if things were different, and Jesus was seated at the left hand of the Father? How would this change our understanding of Christianity?

First, it is important to understand the significance of the right hand in biblical times. In ancient cultures, the right hand was considered the hand of power and authority. Sitting at the right hand of a ruler or king meant that you were his most trusted advisor and wielded great influence. Therefore, by sitting at the right hand of God the Father, Jesus is shown to be his most trusted advisor and equal in power and authority.

If Jesus were seated at the left hand of the Father, it would suggest a different relationship between Jesus and God. The left hand was considered the hand of weakness and dishonor. If Jesus were seated at the left hand of the Father, it would suggest that he was subordinate to God and lacked the same level of power and authority.

This would have significant implications for Christian theology. For example, the doctrine of the Trinity would be affected, as it teaches that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equal in power and authority. If Jesus were not seated at the right hand of the Father, it would suggest that he was not equal with God.

Furthermore, the symbolism of the right hand is used throughout the Bible to represent God's power and protection. For example, Psalm 16:8 says, "I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken." If Jesus were seated at the left hand of the Father, it would suggest that he did not have the same level of protection and power as God.

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Jamie Larson
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