Read:Acts 1:1-11
Key Text: After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. (Acts 1:9)
Reflection: Jesus began his earthly ministry after the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit descended on him and the Father affirmed him (Luke 3:21-22). Jesus’ earthly ministry ends as he is taken up into heaven and the clouds close him from their view (Acts 1:9). After this the Holy Spirit descends not as a dove, but as fire and wind on the early church, compelling them out in power to continue the earthly ministry of Jesus as the Body of Christ – the church. Before Pentecost though, comes the ascension. The ascension is important for at least two reasons:
One: It operates as the exaltation of Jesus after his life, death and resurrection. The ascension of Jesus is effectively a royal enthronement – a coronation – where he takes his rightful place at the right hand of God. Four times in Acts 1:1-11, Luke says ‘into heaven’ or similar, reinforcing that this is Jesus’ rightful place. It is because Jesus is enthroned in heaven that he can be acknowledged as the undisputed King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Two: The ascension of Jesus is a necessary precursor to the Holy Spirit empowerment of the church at Pentecost. The Holy Spirit is the Father’s gift of Jesus’ ongoing presence for the church to continue the ministry which Jesus initiated and will one day complete.
Question: What is something that you are waiting for? How patient are you?
Read: A very good article summarizing the religious and political context out of which Christianity emerged: http://www.followtherabbi.com/Brix?pageID=2751
Hi Stu, I tried to access the link at the end of your Blog. It says the page not found. Can u check this or repost the link. Thanks Mike
Posted by: Michael Batt | March 14, 2012 at 11:13 AM