Exalt

Exalt comes from several common Hebrew and Greek words meaning to lift up. These are sometimes translated extol. Exalting God is esteeming him as being above all his creation. Exalting self through boasting or showing off is sinful.  Psalm 57:5; 1 Chronicles 19:10-13; Psalm 30:1; Luke 16:14-15

Exalt is used in a physical sense, as when Moses lifted the bronze serpent. Exalt is also used figuratively, as in receiving a promotion. An equivalent English phrase is “putting on a pedestal.” Jesus was unjustly exalted in a physical sense when he was lifted above the ground on the cross, but he was exalted to his position of authority in heaven and deserves exaltation in praise from all people.  John 3:14; Acts 5:30-31; Philippians 2:1-11

Exalt is frequently contrasted with humble. That God exalts the humble and humbles the exalted is an ironic truth repeated throughout the Bible.  Matthew 23:1-12; Luke 1:52; Luke 14:7-11; Luke 18:9-14; James 4:6-10; 1 Peter 5:5-7

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!  Psalm 108:5

Related words: hallelujah, hosanna

~ SR

Citation
Ruhmann, Scott. “Word of the Week: Exalt.” 27th Street Church of Christ. Access date: . http://www.churchofbend.com/wow/exalt.htm