“With Great Joy”
The Benefits of The Ascension of Christ
Today???
“Bright Sunday” or “Holy Humor Day.”
May 14th?
Ascension Day
We celebrate Christmas and the Ascension because of God’s fulfillment and accomplishments through Jesus.
The story of Jesus..
- Begins in heaven when He leaves and comes to earth.
Now it ends with Jesus leaving earth to return to Heaven.
- Begins with being born from a virgin, descending upon earth.
Now ends with being born again from death and resurrection, ascending to Heaven.
- Begins with the expectation of a Messiah.
Now ends with the consummation of a Savior and King.
- Begins with the praise of angels and shepherds.
Now ends with the praise of Jesus’ disciples and fishermen.
- Begins with hope unrealized.
Now ends with hope fully attained.
Luke 24:50
Luke 24:51
Luke 24:52–53
“Great Joy”
Psalm 103:2b
Benefits of Christ’s Ascension
Jesus _returned_ to the Father.
John 16:28
John 20:17
Benefit: “That where I am, there you shall be.”
Jesus shares His heavenly _home_.
- Jesus _took His place_ on Heaven’s throne.
Ephesians 1:20–21
Ephesians 1:22–23
Revelation 3:21
Benefit: Jesus shares His Heavenly _throne_.
- Jesus _poured out_ the Holy Spirit.
John 14:16–17
John 16:7
Acts 2:32–33
Benefit: The Holy Spirit lives in us.
Acts 1:1–2
- Jesus _prays_ for us.
Romans 8:34
1 John 2:1
Benefit: Jesus is our prayer warrior.
- Jesus _accesses_ God’s throne for mercy and grace.
Hebrews 4:14
“Passed through the heavens” = ascension language.
Hebrews 4:15–16
Benefit: Jesus is our access for help.
Jesus _will come_ again.
John 14:1–3
Acts 1:11
Benefit: Jesus plans our homecoming.