Mark 16:19-20
19 So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.
20 And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them, and confirmed the word by the signs that followed.]]
[[ And they promptly reported all these instructions to Peter and his companions. And after that, Jesus Himself also sent out through them from east to west the sacred and imperishable proclamation of eternal salvation. ]]
The Ascension of Jesus
What does “ascension” mean?
In today’s passage, Mark provides a brief summary of (1) Jesus’ ascension and (2) the disciples’ ministry. Only a minimal information is given for both, but we cannot complete our study of Jesus’ life without learning the significance of Jesus’ ascension. Ascension signifies Jesus being transferred from the earthly dimension to the dimension of God’s kingdom. It doesn’t mean that Jesus’ body is floating somewhere in outer space. Jesus ascended and took His seat at the right hand of God (the throne of glory). “So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God” (Mark 16:19). “Therefore, since He has been exalted at the right hand of God, and has received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father, He has poured out this which both see and hear” (Acts 2:33). “Christ, who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities, and powers had been subjected to him” (1 Peter 3:22).
Life application
So, what does Jesus’ ascension mean for us? (1) Ascension signifies the completion of Jesus’ earthly life and at the same time, signifies the beginning of a new era. Now, Jesus, as our High Priest, intercedes on our behalf. The gift of the Holy Spirit and the preservation of our lives are all a result of Jesus’ work as our High Priest. (2) Through His ascension, Jesus brought His humanity into the heavenly realm. His incarnation was not a temporary act; rather, the Son of God permanently took on human nature. In this, is a miraculous love. As Jesus’ humanity was brought into heaven, we, in union with Jesus, are also led into heavenly realms. Ephesians 2:6 says, “[God] made us alive together with Christ […] raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Understanding the significance of ascension, transforms our lives. Those who believe in Jesus are already, at this very moment, seated with Him in heavenly places. Do you believe this and filled with overwhelming hope and power?
Today's prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank you that I have been blessed with eternal life. I already am seated in the heavenly place. Today, I will continue forth into this world with this conviction. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.