Sketches of Four Hundred Sermons Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. We cannot contemplate the characters of men who have benefited the world by the splendour of their talents or the lustre of their lives, without feeling a spirit of inquisitive solicitude to know how they finished their course, parted with their friends, and made their exit. We labour to catch the last glance of departing worth. I. THE PERIOD WHEN CHRIST ASCENDED. 1. After upbraiding His disciples with their unbelief and hardness of heart. 2. After assigning to them their work. (1) The work was to "preach the gospel," not false doctrines, not human opinions, not Jewish ceremonies. (2) The sphere of their operation was "all the world."(3) Their commission was to "every creature." Hence we infer that the gospel is suited to the circumstances of all — designed for the benefit of all — and that the ministers of truth should aim at preaching it to all. 3. After comforting them by the promise of a miraculous influence with which they should be invested. II. THE MANNER. 1. Christ's ascension was accomplished by His own eternal power. 2. It was publicly witnessed by His disciples. 3. It was hailed with transport by ministering angels. St. Luke declares that "a cloud received Him;" who can tell what amazing scenes were unfolded beyond that cloud? III. HIS SUBSEQUENT SITUATION. "He sat on the right hand of God." This signifies — 1. The honour and dignity to which our Saviour is exalted. 2. The rule and government with which He is invested (Ephesians 1:20-22; John 3:35; Matthew 11:27; Romans 8:34). 3. The tranquility and happiness of which He is possessed.CONCLUSION: From this subject we learn — 1. Christ finished the work which He came upon earth to accomplish. 2. Christ has highly honoured human nature. 3. Christ is exalted for our sake (Hebrews 9:24).This should give us confidence in our prayers, excite our emulation, and, above all, inspire our hopes. (Sketches of Four Hundred Sermons.) Parallel Verses KJV: So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. |
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