Topical Encyclopedia The Ascension of Christ is a pivotal event in Christian theology, marking the moment when Jesus Christ was taken up into heaven after His resurrection. This event is not only significant for its demonstration of Christ's divine authority and fulfillment of prophecy but also for its implications for the Church and believers. One of the key aspects of the Ascension is Christ's reception of gifts for men, a theme rooted in both Old and New Testament scriptures.Biblical Foundation The concept of Christ ascending to receive gifts for men is primarily drawn from Psalm 68:18, which states, "When You ascended on high, You led captives away; You received gifts from men, even from the rebellious, that the LORD God might dwell there." This verse is often seen as a prophetic foreshadowing of Christ's ascension. The Apostle Paul references this passage in Ephesians 4:8-10 , where he writes, "This is why it says: 'When He ascended on high, He led captives away, and gave gifts to men.' What does 'He ascended' mean, except that He also descended to the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the very One who ascended above all the heavens, in order to fill all things." Theological Significance The Ascension signifies the completion of Christ's earthly ministry and His exaltation to the right hand of the Father. In ascending, Christ not only fulfills the messianic prophecies but also inaugurates a new phase of His work through the Holy Spirit. The reception and distribution of gifts are central to this new phase, as they empower the Church to continue Christ's mission on earth. Gifts for the Church The gifts received and subsequently given by Christ are understood to be spiritual gifts bestowed upon believers for the edification of the Church. These gifts are diverse, including apostleship, prophecy, teaching, healing, and more, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12. The purpose of these gifts is to build up the body of Christ, promote unity, and equip the saints for the work of ministry. Christ's Authority and Intercession The Ascension also underscores Christ's authority over all creation. By ascending, He demonstrates His victory over sin and death, having "disarmed the powers and authorities" (Colossians 2:15). Furthermore, His position at the right hand of God signifies His role as the eternal High Priest, continually interceding for believers (Hebrews 7:25). Implications for Believers For believers, the Ascension is a source of hope and assurance. It confirms the promise of Christ's return and the ultimate restoration of all things. Moreover, it assures believers of their access to spiritual gifts and the presence of the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live out their faith and witness to the world. In summary, the Ascension of Christ to receive gifts for men is a profound event that highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan, the empowerment of the Church, and the ongoing intercessory work of Christ. Through His ascension, believers are equipped to fulfill their calling and participate in the divine mission. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 68:18You have ascended on high, you have led captivity captive: you have received gifts for men; yes, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 4:8,11 Library The Ascension of Christ How was Christ Exalted in his Ascension? The Translation of Elijah and the Ascension of Christ The King on his Throne. Gifts Received for the Rebellious The Enthroned Christ The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ... The Departing Christ and the Coming Spirit How Christ Performed the Office of Redeemer in Procuring Our ... Christ Triumphant Resources How did Isaiah die? | GotQuestions.orgHow long was Jesus' ministry? | GotQuestions.org What were the key events in the life of Jesus Christ? (Part 3) | GotQuestions.org Ascension: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Ascension of Christ was to Supreme Power and Dignity The Ascension of Christ was Triumphant The Ascension of Christ: As the Forerunner of his People The Ascension of Christ: Described The Ascension of Christ: Foretold by Himself The Ascension of Christ: Forty Days After his Resurrection The Ascension of Christ: from Mount Olivet The Ascension of Christ: His Second Coming Shall be in Like Manner As The Ascension of Christ: Prophecies Respecting The Ascension of Christ: To Intercede The Ascension of Christ: To Prepare a Place for his People The Ascension of Christ: To Receive Gifts for Men The Ascension of Christ: To Send the Holy Spirit The Ascension of Christ: Typified The Ascension of Christ: when he had Atoned for Sin The Ascension of Christ: While Blessing his Disciples Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
    |