Topical Encyclopedia The Ascension of Christ marks a pivotal event in Christian theology, signifying the exaltation and glorification of Jesus Christ following His resurrection. This event is recorded in the New Testament, primarily in the books of Luke and Acts, and is celebrated as a triumphant moment in the life and ministry of Jesus.Biblical Account The Ascension is described in Acts 1:9-11 : "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.'" Luke 24:50-51 also provides an account: "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." Theological Significance The Ascension is seen as the culmination of Christ's earthly ministry and the beginning of His heavenly reign. It signifies His victory over sin and death, affirming His divine nature and authority. Ephesians 4:10 states, "He who descended is the very one who ascended above all the heavens, in order to fill all things." This passage highlights the comprehensive scope of Christ's authority and His role in the cosmic order. Christ's Exaltation The Ascension is closely linked to the exaltation of Christ. Philippians 2:9-11 declares, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This exaltation underscores the triumph of Christ over all powers and principalities. Intercessory Role Following His Ascension, Christ assumes the role of intercessor for believers. 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." This ongoing intercession is a source of comfort and assurance for Christians, emphasizing the continued presence and advocacy of Christ on their behalf. Promise of Return The Ascension also carries the promise of Christ's return. The angelic message in Acts 1:11 assures believers of His second coming, a future event that holds eschatological significance. This promise provides hope and anticipation for the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Implications for Believers The Ascension has profound implications for the life of the Church and individual believers. It marks the transition from Christ's physical presence on earth to His spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit, as promised in John 16:7 : "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." This transition empowers the Church to carry out its mission in the world, guided and strengthened by the Holy Spirit. In summary, the Ascension of Christ is a triumphant event that affirms His divine authority, inaugurates His heavenly ministry, and provides hope for His return. It is a cornerstone of Christian faith, shaping the understanding of Christ's ongoing work and presence in the lives of believers. 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 Library The Ascension of Christ The Triumphant End Christ Triumphant Christ's Exaltation From the Birth to the Ascension of Jesus. (On the Lord's Ascension, ii. ) Christ's 'little Whiles' The Witness of the Resurrection Christ's Interpretation of Psalm cx. , 1 (Mark, xii. , 35-37. ) Christ's Prediction of the Coming of the Kingdom of God, and of ... Resources What is the Ascension of Isaiah? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Ascension Day? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning and importance of the ascension of Jesus Christ? | 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) |