Introduction

This sermon explores the significance of the Ascension of Jesus Christ—an often overlooked but crucial aspect of His earthly ministry. It recounts the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus and explains what the Ascension means for believers today. Drawing from Luke 24, Acts 1, John 17, Ephesians, Hebrews, and Philippians, the sermon highlights Jesus' glorification, the sending of the Holy Spirit, His ongoing intercession, and His future return as Judge.

1. The Appearances of Jesus After the Resurrection

· • Jesus appeared at least 10 times after His resurrection (e.g., to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, Thomas, and 500 brethren).

· • These appearances served to comfort, answer doubts, and open the disciples’ minds to Scripture (Luke 24:36–49).

· • Thomas' transformation from doubt to belief is pivotal—'My Lord and my God!' (John 20:28).

Scripture References: Luke 24, John 20, Acts 1, 1 Corinthians 15

2. The Meaning of the Ascension

· • Ascension means 'to go up' but also signifies Jesus' enthronement as King (Luke 24:50–53, Acts 1:1–11).

· • It marks the end of Jesus’ earthly humiliation and the beginning of His exaltation (Philippians 2:9–11).

· • Jesus now sits at the right hand of God (Acts 2:32–33).

Scripture References: Luke 24:50–53, Acts 1:1–11, Philippians 2:9–11, Acts 2:32–33

3. What the Ascension Accomplishes

· • **a. Glory Restored** – Jesus regains His heavenly glory (John 17:5).

· • **b. Sending the Holy Spirit** – The Spirit could only come after Jesus ascended (John 16:7, Acts 1:4–5).

· • **c. Coronation** – Jesus is crowned as King and seated above all powers (Ephesians 1:20–21, 2:6).

· • **d. Intercession** – Jesus now intercedes for believers (Hebrews 4:14–16; John 17:6–11).

· • **e. Help in Temptation** – Jesus sympathizes and helps us (Hebrews 2:16–18).

Scripture References: John 17:5, John 16:7, Ephesians 1:20–21, Ephesians 2:6, Hebrews 4:14–16, Hebrews 2:16–18

4. Jesus as Judge

· • Jesus will return as Judge of the living and the dead (Acts 1:11, 17:31).

· • Believers too will appear before the judgment seat of Christ—not for condemnation but for reward (2 Corinthians 5:10).

Scripture References: Acts 1:11, Acts 17:31, 2 Corinthians 5:10, John 5:22–27

5. The Response of the Disciples

· • The disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy and continued in worship (Luke 24:52–53).

· • Stephen’s vision of the ascended Christ gave him strength to face martyrdom (Acts 7:55–60).

· • Believers can live joyfully and confidently, knowing Christ reigns and intercedes for them.

Scripture References: Luke 24:52–53, Acts 7:55–60

Conclusion

The Ascension is not merely the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry but the beginning of His exalted reign. He is glorified, reigning, interceding, and will return in glory. This truth should stir us to worship, joy, evangelism, and holy living.

Word of Grace is an Evangelical (Born Again), Spirit-filled (Charismatic), Reformed, English-speaking church in Pune that upholds the Bible as God's inspired Word for life. We are a church community that has people from every part of India and parts of the world. We are here to put the Great Command and the Great Commission into practice by equipping and releasing every member into works of service. Word of Grace is part of a wider international family of Churches called RegionsBeyond.To know more about us please log onto www.wordofgracechurch.org.