Luke 24:50-51; Acts 1:9-11
We as the church need to be reminded more often that our Savior Jesus Christ was not only resurrected but He also ascended as the King. This morning, we consider the importance of His ascension. What did it mean for the disciples then and for us now?
What We Believe: We believe in Jesus’ ascension because the Bible tells us that it was literal, physical, and visible before others. 1Tim. 3:16
Why is the Ascension important for us today?
- Because it declares His earthly mission was Accomplished! Jesus
came to do the Father’s will, die on Calvary’s Cross for the sins of men.
Jn 1:29; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 9:26; 1Pet. 2:24; Jn 17:4; 19:30
“The resurrection vindicated Christ, but his ascent confirmed that vindication.” Patrick Schreiner
- Because He took up His High Priestly office! It was only His earthly work that was finished His heavenly work had not yet started. It was necessary for Him to ascend in order that He might begin this work – His priestly work.
- Because He went to prepare for us our Heavenly Home! At His ascension the Bridegroom went to prepare a place for His Bride. Jn. 14:2
- Because it was necessary before He could send the Holy Spirit! The Christian life is the life of the Lord Jesus in us by the power of the Holy Spirit, and this could only be made possible by the ascension of the Lord. Jn. 16:4-15
- Because it guarantees our enjoyment of His continual Presence! He is with you…now! – in your joys (Jn 2:1-11); in your sorrows (Is. 43:2); in your testing (Matt.14:27); and in your departing(Psalm 23:4).
- Because it gives us the guarantee of His sure and certain return! He has gone…and we can be quite sure that He will come again! Jn 14:2-3; Acts 1:11
Application: The Ascension of Jesus Christ our Savior & King leads us to Worship, Joy, and Mission! Acts 1:8
“At His Ascension our Lord entered Heaven, and He keeps the door open for humanity to enter.” Oswald Chambers