The Ascension

We often celebrate the key moments in Jesus' earthly ministry - His birth, life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave. But there's another pivotal event that sometimes gets overlooked: the ascension. This moment when Jesus returned to the Father and took His seat at the right hand of God isn't just a theological footnote. It's the crowning of the King, the moment He takes His rightful throne, reigning over all things with power and glory.

The ascension of Jesus isn't an unnecessary appendage to the story of redemption. It's an essential part of it, carrying profound implications for our faith and daily lives. Let's explore four reasons why the ascension matters:

1. The Ascension Certifies Jesus' Deity

At first glance, it might seem that Jesus' physical absence makes it harder to prove His divinity. Wouldn't it be easier if He were still walking among us? But the early church saw the ascension differently. They rejoiced when Jesus was carried up into heaven, understanding it as the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy from Daniel 7:13-14:

"I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a Son of Man, and He came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him. And to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him; His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom one that shall not be destroyed."

The disciples knew that Jesus being lifted up in the clouds meant He was now being enthroned in heaven. The Man they knew to be God was now seated on His throne, forever exalted in the presence of the Father. This certifies Jesus' deity in a way that His continued earthly presence in a fallen world never could.

2. The Ascension Continues Jesus' Work

The Nicene Creed states that Jesus "ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father." This language of Jesus sitting at the Father's right hand appears throughout Scripture, signifying a position of authority and power. But what does it mean that Jesus is seated?

Hebrews 10:11-12 provides insight: "And every priest stands daily at His service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God."

Jesus sits because His atoning work on the cross is finished. Our sins are fully paid for, once and for all. Yet this doesn't mean Jesus is inactive. He continues to work, ruling and reigning as King. He does this through His church - when we worship, resist temptation, share the gospel, and see people turn to Him in faith.

3. The Ascension Comforts Jesus' People

Surprisingly, Jesus told His disciples it was to their advantage that He go away (John 16:7). Why? Because His ascension paved the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit. As one pastor put it, "The Spirit inside you is better than Jesus beside you." The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit empowers us in ways that Jesus' physical presence alone could not.

Moreover, the ascension means that a human - one of us! - now dwells with God in heaven. Jesus, in His glorified body, was physically relocated to heaven. He remains fully human, though glorified, interceding on our behalf. As the hymn beautifully puts it:

"Five bleeding wounds he bears, Received on Calvary;
They pour effectual prayers, They strongly speak for me;
Forgive him, oh forgive, they cry, Nor let that ransomed sinner die."

We have a High Priest who can truly sympathize with our weaknesses, having experienced human life in all its fullness.

4. The Ascension Confirms Jesus' Return

As the disciples watched Jesus ascend, angels appeared with a promise: "This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11). The ascension carries with it the assurance of Christ's return - not as a humble baby, but as the conquering King.

This truth should stir us to action. Are we living in submission to His Kingship now? Are we striving to advance His Kingdom? Will we be ready when the King returns?

The story of Athanasius, a 4th-century defender of orthodox Christianity, illustrates the power of holding fast to the truth of Christ's ascension and reign. Despite facing exile, opposition from emperors and popular opinion, Athanasius stood firm. He could endure because he knew Jesus was not just risen - He was reigning. Seated at the right hand of God. Interceding for His people. Ruling history.

We may live in times of confusion, compromise, or cultural chaos. But the ascension reminds us: our King is on the throne, and He is coming again. So until that day, we stay faithful. We hold fast to our confession. We draw near to the throne of grace with confidence. We live as citizens of a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

The ascension of Jesus isn't just a postscript to the gospel story. It's a vital chapter that shapes how we understand Christ's work, our present reality, and our future hope. It certifies Jesus' deity, continues His work, comforts His people, and confirms His return. As we grasp the significance of this often-overlooked event, may it deepen our worship, strengthen our faith, and fuel our mission.

For the One who ascended will surely return. And on that day, every eye will see Him, every tongue will confess Him, and every knee will bow before Him - Jesus Christ, Lord of all.