Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Hebrews 10:12

"but he, when he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;" — Hebrews 10:12 (ASV)

Jesus’ work is contrasted to that of priests. He offered one sacrifice—just one alone. Then he “sat down.” The author mentioned this before (e.g., 1:3; 8:1), but he put no emphasis on it. Now he stresses Jesus’ posture, contrasting it to that of the Levitical priests, and the contrast brings out an important point for understanding the work of Christ. Levitical priests stand, for their work is never done but goes on. Christ sits, for his atoning work is done; there is nothing to be added to it.

Furthermore, to be seated at God’s right hand is to be in the place of highest honor. Not even angels are said to have attained to this, for they stand in God’s presence . When Jesus claimed this place for himself, the high priest tore his robe at what he regarded as blasphemy (Mark 14:62–63). The author is combining with the thought of a finished work the idea that our Lord is a being of the highest dignity and honor.