What does Jesus' ascension reveal about His divine authority and righteousness? Setting the Scene “and about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see Me.” (John 16:10) In the Upper Room, Jesus ties the Spirit’s future ministry of conviction to His own imminent departure. The risen Lord will ascend, disappear from sight, yet demonstrate something profound about righteousness and authority. Why “Righteousness” Is Linked to the Ascension • The term points to right standing with God—perfect conformity to His character and will. • By returning to the Father, Jesus shows that His earthly life met every divine requirement. No sin, no shortfall, no unfinished obedience. • The Father’s acceptance is public proof: heaven’s throne room opens only to absolute righteousness. Heaven’s Seal of Approval • Acts 1:9 records the visible lift-off; Acts 2:33 explains its meaning: “Exalted, therefore, to the right hand of God…”. • Hebrews 1:3 echoes the verdict: “After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” Sitting down signals “mission accomplished.” • Psalm 110:1 is fulfilled—“Sit at My right hand…”—and that Old Testament promise was always reserved for the sinless Messiah. Installed at the Right Hand: Ultimate Authority • Daniel 7:13-14 foreshadows the scene: the Son of Man receives dominion and a kingdom. • Philippians 2:9-11 confirms the outcome: “Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place… that every knee should bow.” • Ascension and authority are inseparable. Jesus is not only righteous; He is now the enthroned King with all power in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Three Immediate Implications 1. Validation—The Father’s reception of the Son certifies the cross as fully effective. Our debt is canceled because His righteousness has been vindicated. 2. Representation—Hebrews 7:25: “He always lives to intercede for them.” A righteous Advocate now speaks for believers in God’s presence. 3. Expectation—Acts 17:31 notes that the ascended One is appointed to judge the world in righteousness. The same authority that saves will also evaluate every life. Living in Light of His Ascension • Confidence: Because Jesus’ righteousness is perfect and accepted, ours is secure in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Obedience: The enthroned Lord deserves surrendered allegiance; we follow not a distant memory but a reigning King. • Hope: His return will mirror His departure (Acts 1:11). The righteous Judge will set everything right. Jesus’ ascent is more than a farewell; it is the Father’s thunderous declaration that the Son is perfectly righteous and supremely authoritative—our Savior, Advocate, and King forever. |
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