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 recorded in the New Testament, primarily in the books of Luke and Acts, and holds significant theological implications for the Christian faith, including the exaltation of Christ, the promise of the Holy Spirit, and the anticipation of His return.Biblical Account The Ascension is described in Luke 24:50-51 and Acts 1:9-11. In Luke 24:50-51 , it is written: "When Jesus had led them out as far as Bethany, He lifted up His hands and blessed them. While He was blessing them, He left them and was carried up into heaven." This passage highlights the intimate and profound nature of the Ascension, as Jesus' final act on earth was to bless His disciples, signifying His ongoing care and intercession for them. In Acts 1:9-11 , the event is further detailed: "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.'" This passage emphasizes the physical and visible nature of the Ascension, as well as the promise of Christ's return. Theological Significance 1. Exaltation of Christ: The Ascension signifies the exaltation of Jesus to the right hand of God, a position of authority and honor. This is affirmed in Ephesians 1:20-21 , which states that God "raised Him 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." 2. Intercession and Advocacy: The Ascension marks the beginning of Christ's heavenly ministry as our High Priest and Advocate. Hebrews 7:25 declares, "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: Before His Ascension, Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit, who would empower the disciples for their mission. Acts 1:8 records Jesus' words: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." 4. Anticipation of Christ's Return: The Ascension also serves as a reminder of the future return of Christ. The angels' message in Acts 1:11 assures believers that Jesus will return in the same manner as He ascended, providing hope and motivation for faithful living. Historical and Liturgical Observance The Ascension is traditionally celebrated on Ascension Day, observed on the 40th day of Easter, commemorating the event's timing as described in Acts 1:3 : "After His suffering, He presented Himself to them with many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a span of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God." This day is marked by worship services and reflections on the significance of Christ's Ascension for the Church and individual believers. In summary, the Ascension of Christ, while blessing His disciples, is a profound event that encapsulates the transition from Jesus' earthly ministry to His heavenly reign, offering believers assurance of His ongoing presence, intercession, and the hope of His glorious return. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 24:50And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Ascension of Christ The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ... How Christ Performed the Office of Redeemer in Procuring Our ... Joy and Faith, the Fruits of Christ's Departure Christ's Exaltation Christ's Resurrection Song. Christ's 'little Whiles' "To My Father, and Your Father" From the Birth to the Ascension of Jesus. The Translation of Elijah and the Ascension of Christ Resources What are the Holy Days of Obligation? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the twelve (12) disciples / apostles of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Acts - Bible Survey | 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) |
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