Jesus’ ascension to heaven was far more than a departure—it was the powerful culmination of His earthly mission and a pivotal step in God’s redemptive plan. By ascending, Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, confirmed the completion of His work on Earth, and took His place at the right hand of God. This moment not only affirmed His divine authority but also marked the beginning of His ongoing role as our intercessor and high priest in heaven.
Equally important, Jesus’ ascension opened the way for the Holy Spirit to dwell within believers, empowering them to live with purpose and proclaim the gospel. It also assured us of His eventual return and His promise to prepare an eternal home for those who follow Him. Understanding why Jesus ascended helps us grasp His continuing work in our lives today. Keep reading for a deeper exploration of how this moment shapes our hope, purpose, and faith.
Understanding why Jesus ascended to heaven can be both profound and enlightening. As believers, it helps us grasp the depth of our faith and the plan God has for us. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this significant event in Christianity.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus’ ascension wasn’t a random act but a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. The Old Testament contains numerous references to the Messiah’s exaltation. For instance, Psalm 110:1 says, “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.’” This verse points to Jesus’ ascension and His exalted position at God’s right hand.
Completion of His Earthly Mission
Jesus’ mission on Earth was to save humanity from sin and death. He accomplished this through His death and resurrection. Before ascending, Jesus told His disciples, “It is finished” (John 19:30). This statement signifies the completion of His work on Earth. By ascending to heaven, Jesus demonstrated that His mission was complete, and He was returning to His Father.
To Send the Holy Spirit
One of the primary reasons for Jesus’ ascension was to send the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised His disciples, “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good 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” (John 16:7). The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding, comforting, and empowering believers. Jesus’ departure made way for the Spirit’s arrival, marking the beginning of the Church’s global mission.
Preparation of a Place for Believers
In John 14:2-3, Jesus assured His followers, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” Jesus’ ascension signifies His ongoing work in preparing an eternal home for those who believe in Him.
His Exaltation and Authority
The ascension highlights Jesus’ exaltation and authority. Ephesians 1:20-21 states, “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 invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.” Jesus now reigns as the sovereign Lord, having authority over heaven and earth.
Intercession for Believers
Jesus’ ascension also means He now serves as our high priest, interceding on our behalf. Hebrews 7:25 explains, “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Jesus advocates for us before the Father, ensuring our continuous relationship with God despite our imperfections.
Assurance of His Return
The ascension also promises Jesus’ return. Acts 1:11 recounts the angel’s message to the disciples: “Men of Galilee… 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 assurance gives believers hope and motivates them to live faithfully, knowing Jesus will return to establish His kingdom fully.
Empowerment for the Great Commission
Before ascending, Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). His ascension empowered them to spread the gospel, knowing they weren’t alone. The Holy Spirit’s arrival on Pentecost equipped them with the courage and wisdom needed to fulfill this mission.
Uniting Heaven and Earth
Jesus’ ascension signifies the uniting of heaven and earth. He bridged the gap between God and humanity, making it possible for us to have a direct relationship with the Father. Ephesians 2:6 tells us, “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” Through Jesus, we’re given access to heavenly places and spiritual blessings.
Conclusion
Jesus’ ascension to heaven is a cornerstone of Christian faith, filled with profound meaning and purpose. It signifies the fulfillment of prophecy, the completion of His earthly mission, the sending of the Holy Spirit, and the preparation of a place for believers. It highlights His exaltation, authority, and ongoing intercession for us. The ascension assures us of His return and empowers us to fulfill the Great Commission.
Understanding these reasons can deepen your faith and appreciation for Jesus’ ascension. It’s a reminder that He continues to work on our behalf and that His promises are trustworthy. As you reflect on these truths, may you find comfort, hope, and a renewed commitment to live out your faith boldly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the significance of Jesus’ ascension?
The ascension signifies the fulfillment of prophecy, completion of Jesus’ earthly mission, sending of the Holy Spirit, preparation of a place for believers, His exaltation and authority, His intercession for believers, the assurance of His return, and the empowerment for the Great Commission.
2. Where in the Bible does it talk about Jesus’ ascension?
Jesus’ ascension is mentioned in several places in the Bible, including Acts 1:9-11, Luke 24:50-53, and Mark 16:19. It is also referenced in Ephesians 1:20-21 and Hebrews 7:25.
3. Why did Jesus need to ascend to heaven?
Jesus needed to ascend to send the Holy Spirit, complete His earthly mission, prepare a place for believers, and intercede on our behalf. His ascension also signifies His exaltation and authority over all creation.
4. What did Jesus promise before He ascended to heaven?
Before ascending, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to guide and empower His disciples (John 16:7). He also assured them of His return (Acts 1:11) and commissioned them to spread the gospel to all nations (Matthew 28:19).
5. How does Jesus’ ascension impact Christians today?
Jesus’ ascension impacts Christians by providing the Holy Spirit for guidance and empowerment, ensuring Jesus’ intercession on our behalf, and giving us the hope of His return and the promise of eternal life with Him. It also motivates believers to fulfill the Great Commission.
6. What is the Great Commission?
The Great Commission is Jesus’ command to His disciples to spread the gospel and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey everything He has commanded (Matthew 28:19-20).
7. What role does the Holy Spirit play after Jesus’ ascension?
After Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit acts as a guide, comforter, and empowerer for believers. The Spirit helps Christians understand God’s will, provides spiritual gifts, and strengthens them to live out their faith and share the gospel.
8. How does Jesus’ ascension fulfill Old Testament prophecy?
Jesus’ ascension fulfills Old Testament prophecies like Psalm 110:1, which speaks of the Messiah being seated at God’s right hand. These prophecies highlight the Messiah’s exaltation and rule over all.
9. What does it mean that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God?
Being seated at the right hand of God signifies Jesus’ authority and power. It symbolizes His exaltation and the completion of His redemptive work, as well as His role in interceding for believers.
10. Will Jesus return in the same way He ascended?
Yes, according to Acts 1:11, Jesus will return in the same way He ascended into heaven. This promise gives believers hope and motivation to live faithfully, anticipating His return.
11. How does Jesus’ ascension prepare a place for believers?
In John 14:2-3, Jesus explains that He is going to prepare a place for believers in His Father’s house. His ascension allows Him to prepare an eternal home for those who trust in Him, ensuring a future with Him in heaven.
12. Why is Jesus’ intercession important for believers?
Jesus’ intercession is crucial because it means He continuously advocates for us before the Father. As our high priest, He ensures that our relationship with God remains intact despite our sins and weaknesses (Hebrews 7:25).
