Definition and Significance:
Faith in the Ascended Christ refers to the belief and trust in Jesus Christ, who, after His resurrection, ascended into heaven and now sits at the right hand of God the Father. This faith is foundational to Christian doctrine, emphasizing the completed work of Christ and His ongoing intercession for believers.

Biblical Basis:
The ascension of Christ is a pivotal event recorded in the New Testament, marking the culmination of His earthly ministry and the beginning of His heavenly reign. In Acts 1:9-11 , it is written: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.'"

Theological Implications:
1. Christ's Sovereignty and Authority: The ascension signifies Christ's exaltation and authority over all creation. Ephesians 1:20-21 states, "He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the one to come."

2. Intercession and Advocacy: Christ's ascension assures believers of His continual intercession. Hebrews 7:25 affirms, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them."

3. Promise of the Holy Spirit: The ascension paved the way for the sending of the Holy Spirit, empowering believers for ministry and sanctification. In John 16:7 , Jesus says, "But I tell you the truth, it is for your benefit that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you."

4. Hope of Christ's Return: The ascension also assures believers of Christ's return. As the angels declared in Acts 1:11, Jesus will come back in the same manner as He ascended, providing hope and anticipation for His second coming.

Practical Application:
Faith in the Ascended Christ calls believers to live with a heavenly perspective, focusing on eternal realities rather than temporal concerns. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts, "Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

Historical and Doctrinal Context:
Throughout church history, the ascension has been a central tenet of Christian creeds and confessions, underscoring its importance in orthodox theology. The Nicene Creed, for instance, professes belief in Jesus Christ, "who ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father."

Conclusion:
Faith in the Ascended Christ is integral to understanding the full scope of Jesus' redemptive work and His ongoing role in the life of the believer. It provides assurance of His authority, intercession, and the promise of His return, encouraging believers to live in light of His heavenly reign.