The Ascension of Christ

Introduction

  • Opening prayer requesting greater understanding and a connection to Christ.

Discussion Prompt: Lawyer Representation

  • Hypothetical question posed to the audience regarding expectations from a lawyer in court.

    • Key qualities discussed:

    • Specialization

      • Importance of expertise in the specific area of need (e.g., housing).

    • Sense of Justice

      • Desire for a lawyer genuinely invested in achieving a just outcome, not solely for profit.

    • Skill at Asking Questions

      • Ability to inquire effectively and draw out necessary information.

    • Positive Reputation

      • Preference for lawyers with proven success and good communication skills.

    • Knowledge of the Law

      • Essential for effective representation.

    • Best Interests

      • The lawyer must prioritize the client's interests.

Main Topic: The Ascension of Christ

  • Psalm 24

    • Describes only individuals with "clean hands and a pure heart" can ascend the hill of the Lord.

    • Connects to Christ’s life of obedience and purity, fulfilling God's command.

  • State of Exaltation

    • Ascension is a continuation of Christ's exaltation following his resurrection.

    • Referenced Michael Horton’s interpretation of Psalm 24:

    • Relates Israel's military march to Jerusalem to Christ's triumphal entry into heaven.

  • Revelation 2:7

    • Jesus, who conquers, has the right to the tree of life in the paradise of God, linking Genesis mandates to Christ’s completed work.

Clarification: Jesus vs. Jesus Christ

  • Jesus

    • Proper Hebrew name related to "Joshua" meaning "God’s salvation".

  • Christ (Christos)

    • Greek term meaning "Messiah", indicating an anointed one, specifically relating to Christ's roles as prophet, priest, and king.

    • Used interchangeably with "Jesus Christ", indicating Jesus as the Messiah.

Ascension in Scripture

  • Acts 1:10-11

    • Describes Jesus’s ascension and angelic reassurance of His return.

    • Points Discussed:

    • It’s a further exaltation, emphasizing not to fear His departure as He sends help (the Holy Spirit).

Theological Implications of the Ascension

  • Christ's Two Advents

    • Christ’s first coming (incarnation) and second coming (eschatology).

  • Vin Maastricht's Summary

    • Ascension vindicates Christ’s righteousness and warrants glorification.

  • Functions of the Ascension:

    1. Glorified human nature now ruling in heaven.

    2. Ongoing intercession for salvation.

    3. Acts as a trailblazer for believers, opening heaven.

    4. Prepares dwelling in heaven and advocates for believers.

    5. Takes possession of heavenly kingdom, pledging future ascension for believers.

Christ’s Humanity and Exaltation

  • Marty's Question

    • Clarification on whether Christ’s body is ruling in heaven while divine authority remains.

    • Affirmed that Christ’s humanity is the centerpiece of His exalted rule.

  • Evelyn's Question

    • Resurrected humanity and its distinctions discussed: physicality, the ability to engage with the environment, and aspects of continuity and change addressed.

Interaction with the Audience

  • Concept of Christ's Presence

    • Augustine's reflections on Christ’s dual presence.

    • Christ's divinity is omnipresent whereas His humanity is specifically located in heaven.

Conclusion on the Ascension and Christ's Presence

  • Restated that Christ's omnipresence and tangible absence provide believers with hope and direction towards the eternal.

  • Clarified the unique significance of Christ’s ascended body in heaven as a source of encouragement.

Final Remarks

  • Discussion concluded with an emphasis on the implications of the ascension for believers' understanding and expectations of eternal life.