What is the Significance of the Ascension in Christianity?

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Christianity is one of the world’s major religions, centered on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. One important event in the life of Jesus that holds significant theological and spiritual meaning is the Ascension. The Ascension refers to the moment when Jesus, in bodily form, was taken up to heaven after his resurrection. This event is mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, particularly in the Gospels of Luke and Mark, as well as in the book of Acts. The Ascension is a key element of Christian belief and has profound implications for believers. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Ascension in Christianity in full detail.

1. Exaltation and Reign of Christ

One of the primary meanings of the Ascension is the exaltation and reign of Jesus Christ. After his resurrection, Jesus ascended to heaven, where he was seated at the right hand of God. This act symbolizes his authority, power, and kingship over all creation. It affirms that Jesus is not just a historical figure or a prophet but the divine Son of God who now reigns over the universe. This exaltation is central to the Christian understanding of Jesus’ role as the Messiah and the Lord of all.

2. Completion of Jesus’ Earthly Mission

The Ascension also signifies the completion of Jesus’ earthly mission. Throughout his ministry, Jesus taught about the kingdom of God, performed miracles, and proclaimed the Good News of salvation. By ascending to heaven, Jesus fulfills his mission, having accomplished the work of redemption through his death and resurrection. The Ascension marks the culmination of Jesus’ earthly journey and paves the way for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, which empowers the early Christian community to continue the mission of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

3. Promise of Jesus’ Return

Another important aspect of the Ascension is the promise of Jesus’ return. Before ascending, Jesus assured his disciples that he would come back. This promise gives hope to Christians that one day Jesus will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. The Ascension, therefore, serves as a reminder to believers to be watchful, faithful, and prepared for the second coming of Christ. It instills a sense of anticipation and encourages believers to live in a way that reflects their faith and devotion to Christ’s teachings.

4. Sending of the Holy Spirit

The Ascension is closely linked to the sending of the Holy Spirit. Before ascending, Jesus instructed his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they received the power of the Holy Spirit. This promise was fulfilled at Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, empowering them to become bold witnesses for Christ. The Holy Spirit’s coming not only provided guidance, comfort, and spiritual gifts to believers but also established the presence of God within the Christian community. The Ascension, therefore, serves as a bridge between Jesus’ physical presence on earth and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

5. Assurance of Jesus’ Intercession

The Ascension also assures believers of Jesus’ ongoing intercession on their behalf. As Jesus ascended to heaven, he took on the role of the heavenly high priest, advocating for his followers before God. This intercessory role gives

Christians confidence that Jesus understands their struggles, empathizes with their weaknesses, and intercedes on their behalf. It reassures them that they have a compassionate mediator who continually pleads for their forgiveness, redemption, and spiritual well-being.

6. Commission to the Church

Furthermore, the Ascension serves as a commission to the Church. After ascending to heaven, Jesus entrusted his followers with the responsibility of continuing his mission and spreading the Gospel. This commission, often referred to as the Great Commission, is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus commands his disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them everything he has commanded. The Ascension underscores the role of believers as witnesses and ambassadors of Christ, calling them to actively participate in God’s plan for salvation.

7. Hope of Resurrection and Eternal Life

Lastly, the Ascension provides believers with the hope of resurrection and eternal life. Just as Jesus was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven, Christians believe that they too will be raised in glorified bodies and united with Christ in eternity. The Ascension assures believers that death is not the end, but rather a transition to a new and everlasting existence in the presence of God. It instills the hope of a future resurrection and encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, seeking to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

Conclusion

The Ascension holds immense significance in Christianity. It represents the exaltation and reign of Jesus Christ, the completion of his earthly mission, the promise of his return, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. It assures believers of Jesus’ ongoing intercession, commissions the Church to continue his mission, and provides the hope of resurrection and eternal life. The Ascension is a central event that affirms Jesus’ divinity, establishes his authority, and calls believers to follow in his footsteps. It is a source of inspiration, encouragement, and hope for Christians around the world, shaping their faith and guiding their lives.