Up, Up And Away! The Miracle Of The Ascension
Preaching
Preaching the Miracles
Cycle A
Then he said to them, "These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled. 45Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46and said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49And behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city, until you are clothed with power from on high."
50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51While he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. 52And they returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53and were continually in the temple blessing God. - Luke 24:44-53
It is a great day when a hero returns to his people. We Americans put on a gala reception with a ticker tape parade usually in Manhattan. Hundreds of thousands gather to see the procession of victory. They cheer. The bands play. Banners wave in the wind. Spontaneous shouts are heard blocks away. The hero may be a Charles Lindbergh, a Dwight Eisenhower, a Neil Armstrong, a Pope or a Nelson Mandela. It is a great day of welcome, festivity and victory.
But, the greatest day of all occurred not on earth but in heaven. Jesus ascended to the Father. What a celebration it must have been! Millions of saints in heaven shouted, "Alleluia!" See the banners. Hear the choirs of angels. There is God the Father standing with open arms to receive his Son. Having finished the task given him to reveal the truth of God and to redeem the human race, he came home. He returned as the conqueror over Satan, sin and death. Amid thunderous
shouting and singing praises, the Son of God is seated at the right hand of the Father to resume his authority and power.
It is this miracle of ascension that we celebrate on this day, known as Holy Thursday, 40 days after Easter. It is the last miracle not by but of the earthly Jesus. It was a miracle by God the Father, a miracle of bringing back his Son to his rightful place of dominion and glory as the second person of the Trinity. What significance does the ascension have for our faith and life in the 21st century? What is there to preach about this final miracle of Jesus?
Acclimation
The Situation
To get the full picture of the ascension, we need to compile three biblical references to the miracle: Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:1-11. According to Luke, Jesus was on earth 40 days after his resurrection during which time he appeared many times to his disciples. At his final meeting with the disciples, he explained to them the scriptures dealing with his death and resurrection, promised to send them the Holy Spirit, and instructed them to remain in Jerusalem until the Spirit came. He assured them that the Holy Spirit would give them power to be his witnesses all over the world. Then Jesus led them to the Mount of Olives near Bethany located about a half mile from Jerusalem. While blessing them, he disappeared in a cloud and returned to his Father who seated his Son at his right hand. While they were watching his disappearance, two men in white apparel asked them why they were gazing into heaven. They assured the disciples that Jesus would one day return to earth in the same manner.
How did the disciples respond to Jesus' ascension? They worshiped him, returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and while waiting for the promise of the Holy Spirit to be fulfilled, they continually went to the temple to bless God.
The Setting
1. Scriptural Setting. The account of the ascension is limited to Luke who writes about it in his gospel and in Acts. Matthew and John make no mention of it. In Mark's appendix, chapter 16, only verse 19 refers to Jesus' going to the right hand of the Father.
Mark 16:19-20. New Testament scholars are generally agreed that Mark's gospel ends with 16:8. It is an abrupt and unsatisfactory ending. Consequently, the church added two endings. 16:9-20 was added in the second century. A shorter ending (16:9-10) was added in the fourth century. The reference to the ascension in Mark is therefore not considered canonical.
Luke 24:44-53. The account of the ascension is in Luke's last chapter which tells of the resurrection, the Emmaus episode, and Jesus' post-resurrection appearance to the disciples at a meeting in Jerusalem. At this meeting he showed them his scars, ate with them and explained the scriptures relating to his death and resurrection. At the close of the meeting he leads them to Bethany where he left them to go to his Father in heaven.
Acts 1:1-11. Luke opens his second volume (Acts) by addressing his book to Theophilus. To some extent he recapitulates the ending of his gospel by giving the setting for Jesus' departure and explaining Jesus' 40 days on earth after the resurrection, his instruction to the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit who would give them power to witness. The disciples returned to Jerusalem, gathered for prayer, and elected Matthias as the replacement for Judas Iscariot.
2. The Place of the Ascension. Matthew and Luke do not agree as to the place where Jesus ascended. According to Matthew (28:16), the angel at the empty tomb told the women that the disciples could see the risen Jesus in Galilee. Accordingly they met him on a hill in Galilee.
In contrast, Luke has Jesus instructing the 11 to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit is received. The risen Lord meets with them in Jerusalem and then leads them to Bethany, a short distance from Jerusalem, where he ascends. Since Matthew does not report the ascension, preachers are free to operate according to Luke's version.
3. The Time of the Ascension. When did Jesus ascend? Luke gives us two answers. In his gospel (24:51) Luke says that the ascension took place on Easter Sunday night. The entire 24th chapter tells of the events of Easter Sunday and concludes with the ascension. In his second volume, we get another story (Acts 1:3). Here we are told that Jesus was on earth 40 days after Easter and on the 40th day (Holy Thursday) he left the disciples for heaven. The church has followed the Acts account and thus we observe Ascension Day. Since the 40th day falls on a Thursday, the church does not have an Ascension Sunday.
Related Passages
2 Kings 2:9-12 - Elijah's ascension via a chariot of fire.
Matthew 28:16-20 - The great commission before departure.
Luke 21:28 - "Lift up your heads."
John 14:25-29 - Jesus wants his disciples to rejoice over his leaving.
John 16:5-11 - It is expedient for Jesus to leave.
Philippians 2:9-11 - God highly exalted his Son.
Colossians 3:1-4 - "Seek that which is above."
Hebrews 7:23-28 - Jesus intercedes for us.
The Church Year
"The Ascension of our Lord" falls between the sixth and seventh Sundays of Easter. It falls on a Thursday, known as "Holy Thursday." The ascension is one of nine major festivals of the church year: Christmas, Epiphany, Baptism of our Lord, Transfiguration, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, Trinity and Christ the King.
Because it is a festival dealing with a high point in the life of Jesus, it should be observed. Since it falls on a weekday, today's church has a problem of getting people to attend the festival service. Consequently, most churches, even the liturgical churches, do not have an Ascension Day service.
In the light of the practical situation, what can be done about it? Liturgical purists will reject the suggestion that the pericopes of Ascension Day be used on either Easter six or Easter seven, preferably on Easter six because psychologically it is better to anticipate an event than to observe it after the event.
However, in the pericopes for Easter six and Easter seven, references are made to the ascension and give the preacher a text for preaching on the ascension. Cycle A Lesson 1 of Easter seven (Acts 1:6-14) gives the account of the ascension. In Cycle B, the Gospel of Easter seven, there is a reference to the ascension: "But now I am coming to thee (John 17:13)." In Cycle C, the ascension is implied in the Gospel of Easter seven when Jesus prayed, "Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am, to behold my glory (John 17:24)."
The Lectionary
Theme of the Day: The ascension of Jesus.
Lesson 1 (Acts 1:1-11). Jesus' ascension begins the work of the Holy Spirit in and through the church.
Lesson 2 (Ephesians 1:16-23). In heaven Jesus sits at the right hand of God in authority and power.
Gospel (Luke 24:44-53). After the risen Jesus meets with his disciples, he leads them to Bethany where in the act of blessing them, he is taken to heaven.
Psalm of the Day (Psalm 110). "Sit at my right hand, till I make your enemies your footstool (v. 1)."
Prayer of the Day: "Almighty God, your only Son was taken up into heaven and in power intercedes for us. May we also come into your presence and live forever in your glory."
Hymn of the Day: "A Hymn Of Glory Let Us Sing"
Explanation
Mark 16:19-20
Up (v. 19). Where is "up?" How high is "up?" Heaven is considered to be up above us. It reflects the biblical three-story universe. Heaven is above the earth and Hades (Sheol) is under the earth. It is metaphorical language. We instinctively consider God, goodness, truth and holiness to be high above us. To go down is to go to despair, defeat, death and Satan.
Heaven (v. 19). Jesus was taken into heaven. Where is heaven? It us "up." What is heaven? Is it a place? Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:3)." It is not a physical place, for Paul said, "Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:50)." Heaven is a place or focus where God and Christ are together with the faithful who died in Christ. Heaven is a oneness with Christ. To be with Christ means life, peace and joy.
Right hand (v. 19). The "right hand" is symbolic of Christ's primary status with the Father. He is second to none. He shares with the Father all glory, power and dominion. At the Father's right hand Jesus rules as King of kings.
Luke 24:44-53
Fulfilled (v. 44). Jesus saw his ministry as a fulfillment of prophecy recorded in the scriptures of his day: prophets, law, psalms. His coming was not a new thing. He was not an innovator. His ministry was the culmination of God's plan of salvation from the time of Adam's fall. He was sent to do the will of God. He completed his mission successfully and was now ready to return to his Father.
Opened (v. 45). Before the disciples could understand, Jesus had to open their minds. Closed minds, prejudiced minds, empty minds cannot fathom divine truth. Before we can perceive the truth of scriptures, it is necessary to pray for open, receptive minds.
Repentance and forgiveness (v. 47). Jesus sends his men to go out and preach. What shall they preach? They are to proclaim "forgiveness and repentance." These two are the essentials and fundamentals of the church's witness. They imply that all humans are sinners in need of repentance and forgiveness. Which comes first - repentance or forgiveness? Is repentance a condition of forgiveness? Repentance is a condition to receive forgiveness but not a condition of God's forgiveness. As a God of love and grace, he is always willing to forgive. But, repentance makes one want to be forgiven and able to receive forgiveness.
Promise (v. 49). In Luke there is no record that Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit. We have to go to John 16 for it. Here Luke is probably referring to Joel 2:28-29. The promise was fulfilled on Pentecost.
Bethany (v. 50). Bethany is a village near the Mount of Olives (Acts 1:12) which is two miles from Jerusalem. The Mount of Olives is a mile long ridge which is separated from Jerusalem by the Kidron Valley. Bethany was the hometown of Mary, Martha and Lazarus where Jesus often visited. On the mount at Bethany Jesus took his leave.
Acts 1:1-11
Luke gives two accounts of the ascension. In his gospel, the ascension brings the life and ministry of Jesus to a close. In Acts, the ascension is the beginning of the Spirit's ministry in and through the church. Now the body of Christ on earth is the church. Christ comes to the church in and through the Holy Spirit.
In this passage Luke explains the post-resurrection ministry of Jesus. His disciples are to wait for the promised Spirit who will give them power to be his witnesses throughout the world. Now Jesus leaves, but the men keep watching the event. Two men had to bring them back to reality by saying, "Why are you gazing into heaven? You have work to do, the work Jesus gave you. It is time to go to work, for some day he will be returning for an account of your stewardship."
Application
Relevance Of Revelation
1. The neglect of the ascension in the contemporary church. During the past 25 years or more the church seems to have put the ascension on the back burner. Heretofore, the ascension was celebrated as a major festival. Churches were named after the ascension. One of the oldest Lutheran churches in Georgia is the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Savannah. In Pottsville, Pennsylvania, there is a painting of the ascending Christ in the center panel of the reredos. In the Philadelphia Lutheran Seminary chapel, above the altar is a large stained glass window depicting the about-to-ascend Jesus giving the disciples located at his feet the great commission to preach the gospel. For five days each week for three years we students came to chapel and saw this window of the ascension. One can imagine and understand what effects the ascension had on the minds and hearts of these young seminarians.
Is today's church neglecting the ascension? Few churches have Ascension Day services because the festival falls on a Thursday. Because so few people come to a special service during the week, many pastors feel the effort of getting up another sermon is not justified. In a recent hymnal only four out of 569 hymns deal with the ascension.
Before we deal with the preparation of a sermon on the miracle of the ascension, we need to be convinced that its observance is worth our time and effort. Are there truths and values in the ascension that are nowhere else? What would be missing if we omitted the ascension? For centuries the church has been celebrating the festival. Shall we stop now?
2. The ancient vs. modern scientific world. For some with a knowledge of modern science the ascension is ludicrous. The ancient biblical world has a simple three-story universe. The modern scientific world tells us of a space world with planets, stars and galaxies that are billions of miles from the earth. In today's world there is no up or down. There is endless space. How could a person like Jesus ascend into space? Soon there would be no oxygen and the cold temperature would make life impossible. Some modern people therefore reject the ascension as a myth.
How then can we deal with the ascension in the sermon? Basically the ascension is a mystery and a miracle. We cannot explain it in scientific terms. Was the risen Jesus a spiritual being only? We remember God is a Spirit; he is not a man. Heaven is a spiritual realm. The risen Christ had a mysterious, glorified body that could be both physical and spiritual. In preaching on the ascension we need not get stymied by the scientific trivia. There are values and truths related to the ascension. After all, the ascension is a miracle. And who can fully understand or explain a miracle? We can only learn from it!
3. Year after year. The three-year cycle of the Common Lectionary provides the same lections for each year for the ascension. This can be a problem for a preacher because the text is the same each Ascension Day. This calls for imagination, insight and resourcefulness for a preacher to discover new ideas and approaches year after year. Since there are three lections, a text can be taken from one of the Lessons. In the succeeding years, the text can be taken from the remaining Lessons.
4. The Ascension today. The ascension gives an answer to questions that the laity are asking about Jesus. Where is Jesus now? What is he doing now? Without the ascension, is Jesus still on earth? If on earth, where is his body? If the body is alive, where can it be seen? Ascension puts the capstone on the arch of Jesus' life and ministry. As he came from God in heaven, he returned to God in heaven. He has returned to rule as king of the universe. He intercedes for us to the Father. In the fullness of time he will return to bring history to a triumphant end.
Sermon Suggestions
1. Up but Not Away! Jesus ascended to our Father in heaven. He went up, up and nobody knows how far. It is the distance between the sinfulness of humanity and the holiness of God. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:9)." Jesus is so far away from us on earth but yet so very close. He promised, "I am with you always (Matthew 28:20)." He is present in the Holy Spirit who abides in us. At the ascension he goes up but not away from us.
2. The Perpendicular in Your Life. The ascension teaches us that we need the perpendicular dimension in our lives. We do live necessarily at times on the horizontal plane because we must live in a material world with all the bodily needs. But, we are more than bodies. We are essentially souls clothed with bodies. We are admonished, "Lift up your heads (Luke 21:28)" and "Seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1)." What constitutes the perpendicular dimension? Faith, hope, dreams, worthy goals and beautiful thoughts. "I will lift up my eyes to the hills (Psalm 121:1)."
3. The Ups in Jesus' Life. The ascension is not the only time Jesus went up. His entire life was a matter of going up. He went up to the Mount of Transfiguration. He went up to Jerusalem for his passion. He went up to the Mount of Olives for prayer in Gethsemane and later for his departure. Our redemption depends on his going up: "I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself (John 12:32)." For a Christian, life is not a "downer" but an "upper."
4. The End is the Beginning. Jesus' ministry on earth marks the end. He leaves for heaven. The end marks also the beginning for the church. Now the church is to get busy and continue the work that the historical Jesus did: preaching, teaching and healing. At the ascension two men called the disciples' attention to their calling by asking, "Why do you stand looking into heaven (Acts 1:11)?" Christians are not to constantly look at the stars but they have work to do and heavy loads to lift. The church begins at the ascension and not only on Pentecost.
5. His Ascension and Ours. Paul tells us that as Christ was raised, so shall we. Does this apply also to the ascension? For Jesus the ascension was a time of exaltation, celebration and victory. Jesus returns to the Father with "mission accomplished." He paid the sacrifice; the world has been reconciled to God and the way to God is now open. When we physically die, we are assured that we will go to paradise to be with Jesus. When we get to heaven, will we get a similar reception? Will we hear God saying, "Well done, you good and faithful servant?" Will God the Father welcome each of us as the father of the prodigal welcomed his lost son with open arms?
6. Now he is for Everyone. By reason of the ascension Jesus changes from a concrete to a cosmic Christ. On earth he was local; in heaven he is universal. Limited by time and space, Jesus could teach and preach only to those in Israel. Now through the church he preaches in every nation. His hands could be laid upon a limited number for blessing and healing. Now through the church's institutions, he heals millions. Only a handful could ask him for help, but now billions can pray to him. Jesus is now available to every person of every generation. Thanks be to God for his ascension!
7. Jesus Prays for You. When on earth Jesus prayed for persons like Peter: "I have prayed for you that your faith fail not." At the right hand of God, Jesus now prays for all who pray to him. He is our High Priest who intercedes for us with the Father. Who are we as poor sinners to go directly to the infinite, holy God? We must have an intercessor who is close to God. Thus, we pray through Christ and in his name.
Sermon Structures
1. Glad He's Gone! (John 14:28; Luke 24:52). In his last discourse with the disciples before his crucifixion, Jesus told them that they would rejoice over his leaving them. After his ascension, Luke reports that they returned to Jerusalem "with great joy." Why would they and why should we rejoice that Jesus left the earth at his ascension?
A. Rejoice over Jesus' victory at the right hand of God - Ephesians 1:20-22
B. Rejoice that the Holy Spirit is coming - Acts 1:8
C. Rejoice that he is always with us - Matthew 28:20
2. Jesus' Last Words (Matthew 28:16-20). Matthew does not specifically report the actual ascension but he gives us exceedingly important words before he departs. This is his last will and testament, the great commission to the church then and now.
A. Purpose - "Go therefore ..." - v. 19
B. Power to accomplish the purpose - "All power ..." - v. 18
C. Promise of his presence - "I will be with you ..." - v. 20
3. Because Jesus Ascended. Because Jesus ascended to his Father, great consequences resulted for us on earth. What difference his ascension makes -
A. Jesus prays for us - Hebrews 7:25
B. Jesus is with us - Matthew 28:20
C. Jesus' spirit is with us - Acts 1:8
D. Jesus rules as King of kings - Ephesians 1:21
4. What Jesus Left Behind. When Jesus went to his Father, he did not take all with him. He left much on earth. This involves us still on earth. What did he leave behind?
A. A church - disciples - Acts 1:11
B. A world to win - Matthew 28:19; Luke 24:47
C. His presence - Matthew 28:20
D. His power - Acts 1:8
5. The Good of His Going (John 16:7). The ascension was good for Jesus: exaltation, celebration, praise, dominion and glory. But, it was also good for us. Jesus said his going was expedient for us. Why is it for our good?
A. His going gives us a task - Luke 24:47
B. His going brings the Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8
C. His going gives us the hope of his return - Acts 1:11
6. Jesus Ascended - So What? The ascension meant everything to Jesus, but what does it mean to people in the coming 21st century? Consider the following -
A. We rejoice - "Returned to Jerusalem with great joy" - Luke 24:52
B. We worship - Luke 24:53
C. We obey Jesus' command - "They returned to Jerusalem" - Luke 24:52
D. We trust his promise of the Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8
7. See it Whole! The ascension is not an isolated event. It needs to be seen and experienced in the perspective of Jesus' whole ministry. See the ascension in connection with -
A. The great commission - Matthew 28:16-20
B. The promise of the Holy Spirit - Luke 24:49
C. The Parousia - Acts 1:11
Illustration
Departure with a Song. In his Journal John Wesley tells of his mother's dying request. "From three to four the silver cord was loosing, and the wheel breaking at the cistern; and then the soul was set at liberty. We stood round the bed and fulfilled her last request: 'Children, as soon as I am released, sing a psalm of praise to God.' " At Jesus' departure to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy.
No Other Plan. When the 11 watched Jesus ascend, two men in white asked them why they continued to gaze up into heaven. They were commissioned to carry out his great commission. There is a legend telling how Gabriel met Jesus at the gate of heaven when he returned from earth. "What have you achieved?" the archangel asked. "What results have you left behind on earth?" "I have left," answered Jesus, "11 men who believe in me." "Is that all?" demanded Gabriel. Jesus answered, "It is all." "But what if they shall fail you? Have you no other plan?" Gabriel asked. Simply and hopefully Jesus replied, "I have no other plan."
Right Hand. During a Civil War battle Stonewall Jackson was mistakenly shot by his own men. His left arm was so badly injured that it was necessary to amputate it. Shortly thereafter Jackson died of pneumonia. When General Robert E. Lee heard the report, he said, "Stonewall Jackson lost his left arm but in him I have lost my right arm."
Coronation. When Jesus returned to the Father, he was exalted and crowned King of kings. In Westminster Abbey, London, there is in the chapel of Edward the Confessor the Coronation Chair. All the kings and queens of England have sat on it for their coronation. It is marked, scratched and rather ugly. Initials and names are carved on it like so much graffiti. It may not be beautiful, but it is a prized possession with national significance.
Witnesses. Before Jesus ascended, he promised power by the Spirit. It was a power to be witnesses everywhere. A certain missionary doctor in an overseas hospital removed cataracts from a man's eyes and restored his sight. Some weeks later the doctor was surprised to see 48 blind men coming to the hospital. Each one held onto a rope which was guided by the man who recently received his sight by the removal of the cataracts. He led the men for a distance of 250 miles to the physician who gave him sight. It was his witness that brought them to the doctor.
Perpendicular Dimension. Near Rome, Georgia, there is a college known as Berry School founded by Martha Berry for young people in the Appalachian area. It has the largest campus in America. On the campus are farms and factories where students work their way through college. Arising from the center of a barn roof is a spire usually seen on churches. Martha Berry ordered her architect to put the spire on the barn as though it were a church. The architect asked why put a spire on a barn. She explained that when the students are working in the fields or barnyard, they could look up and see that their work was a part of their worship. It gave them a perpendicular dimension to their lives.
Christian Joy. After the ascension the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. Before leaving he told them that they would rejoice at his leaving because he was returning to the Father. E. Stanley Jones was preaching one Sunday morning on the subject of joy. In the middle of the congregation was a woman with the sourest and longest face as though she were sucking a sour pickle. After the service, she came to Jones and told him how very happy she was. He replied, "Well, lady, you need to send a telegram to your face about your happiness."
50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51While he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. 52And they returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53and were continually in the temple blessing God. - Luke 24:44-53
It is a great day when a hero returns to his people. We Americans put on a gala reception with a ticker tape parade usually in Manhattan. Hundreds of thousands gather to see the procession of victory. They cheer. The bands play. Banners wave in the wind. Spontaneous shouts are heard blocks away. The hero may be a Charles Lindbergh, a Dwight Eisenhower, a Neil Armstrong, a Pope or a Nelson Mandela. It is a great day of welcome, festivity and victory.
But, the greatest day of all occurred not on earth but in heaven. Jesus ascended to the Father. What a celebration it must have been! Millions of saints in heaven shouted, "Alleluia!" See the banners. Hear the choirs of angels. There is God the Father standing with open arms to receive his Son. Having finished the task given him to reveal the truth of God and to redeem the human race, he came home. He returned as the conqueror over Satan, sin and death. Amid thunderous
shouting and singing praises, the Son of God is seated at the right hand of the Father to resume his authority and power.
It is this miracle of ascension that we celebrate on this day, known as Holy Thursday, 40 days after Easter. It is the last miracle not by but of the earthly Jesus. It was a miracle by God the Father, a miracle of bringing back his Son to his rightful place of dominion and glory as the second person of the Trinity. What significance does the ascension have for our faith and life in the 21st century? What is there to preach about this final miracle of Jesus?
Acclimation
The Situation
To get the full picture of the ascension, we need to compile three biblical references to the miracle: Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:1-11. According to Luke, Jesus was on earth 40 days after his resurrection during which time he appeared many times to his disciples. At his final meeting with the disciples, he explained to them the scriptures dealing with his death and resurrection, promised to send them the Holy Spirit, and instructed them to remain in Jerusalem until the Spirit came. He assured them that the Holy Spirit would give them power to be his witnesses all over the world. Then Jesus led them to the Mount of Olives near Bethany located about a half mile from Jerusalem. While blessing them, he disappeared in a cloud and returned to his Father who seated his Son at his right hand. While they were watching his disappearance, two men in white apparel asked them why they were gazing into heaven. They assured the disciples that Jesus would one day return to earth in the same manner.
How did the disciples respond to Jesus' ascension? They worshiped him, returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and while waiting for the promise of the Holy Spirit to be fulfilled, they continually went to the temple to bless God.
The Setting
1. Scriptural Setting. The account of the ascension is limited to Luke who writes about it in his gospel and in Acts. Matthew and John make no mention of it. In Mark's appendix, chapter 16, only verse 19 refers to Jesus' going to the right hand of the Father.
Mark 16:19-20. New Testament scholars are generally agreed that Mark's gospel ends with 16:8. It is an abrupt and unsatisfactory ending. Consequently, the church added two endings. 16:9-20 was added in the second century. A shorter ending (16:9-10) was added in the fourth century. The reference to the ascension in Mark is therefore not considered canonical.
Luke 24:44-53. The account of the ascension is in Luke's last chapter which tells of the resurrection, the Emmaus episode, and Jesus' post-resurrection appearance to the disciples at a meeting in Jerusalem. At this meeting he showed them his scars, ate with them and explained the scriptures relating to his death and resurrection. At the close of the meeting he leads them to Bethany where he left them to go to his Father in heaven.
Acts 1:1-11. Luke opens his second volume (Acts) by addressing his book to Theophilus. To some extent he recapitulates the ending of his gospel by giving the setting for Jesus' departure and explaining Jesus' 40 days on earth after the resurrection, his instruction to the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit who would give them power to witness. The disciples returned to Jerusalem, gathered for prayer, and elected Matthias as the replacement for Judas Iscariot.
2. The Place of the Ascension. Matthew and Luke do not agree as to the place where Jesus ascended. According to Matthew (28:16), the angel at the empty tomb told the women that the disciples could see the risen Jesus in Galilee. Accordingly they met him on a hill in Galilee.
In contrast, Luke has Jesus instructing the 11 to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit is received. The risen Lord meets with them in Jerusalem and then leads them to Bethany, a short distance from Jerusalem, where he ascends. Since Matthew does not report the ascension, preachers are free to operate according to Luke's version.
3. The Time of the Ascension. When did Jesus ascend? Luke gives us two answers. In his gospel (24:51) Luke says that the ascension took place on Easter Sunday night. The entire 24th chapter tells of the events of Easter Sunday and concludes with the ascension. In his second volume, we get another story (Acts 1:3). Here we are told that Jesus was on earth 40 days after Easter and on the 40th day (Holy Thursday) he left the disciples for heaven. The church has followed the Acts account and thus we observe Ascension Day. Since the 40th day falls on a Thursday, the church does not have an Ascension Sunday.
Related Passages
2 Kings 2:9-12 - Elijah's ascension via a chariot of fire.
Matthew 28:16-20 - The great commission before departure.
Luke 21:28 - "Lift up your heads."
John 14:25-29 - Jesus wants his disciples to rejoice over his leaving.
John 16:5-11 - It is expedient for Jesus to leave.
Philippians 2:9-11 - God highly exalted his Son.
Colossians 3:1-4 - "Seek that which is above."
Hebrews 7:23-28 - Jesus intercedes for us.
The Church Year
"The Ascension of our Lord" falls between the sixth and seventh Sundays of Easter. It falls on a Thursday, known as "Holy Thursday." The ascension is one of nine major festivals of the church year: Christmas, Epiphany, Baptism of our Lord, Transfiguration, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, Trinity and Christ the King.
Because it is a festival dealing with a high point in the life of Jesus, it should be observed. Since it falls on a weekday, today's church has a problem of getting people to attend the festival service. Consequently, most churches, even the liturgical churches, do not have an Ascension Day service.
In the light of the practical situation, what can be done about it? Liturgical purists will reject the suggestion that the pericopes of Ascension Day be used on either Easter six or Easter seven, preferably on Easter six because psychologically it is better to anticipate an event than to observe it after the event.
However, in the pericopes for Easter six and Easter seven, references are made to the ascension and give the preacher a text for preaching on the ascension. Cycle A Lesson 1 of Easter seven (Acts 1:6-14) gives the account of the ascension. In Cycle B, the Gospel of Easter seven, there is a reference to the ascension: "But now I am coming to thee (John 17:13)." In Cycle C, the ascension is implied in the Gospel of Easter seven when Jesus prayed, "Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am, to behold my glory (John 17:24)."
The Lectionary
Theme of the Day: The ascension of Jesus.
Lesson 1 (Acts 1:1-11). Jesus' ascension begins the work of the Holy Spirit in and through the church.
Lesson 2 (Ephesians 1:16-23). In heaven Jesus sits at the right hand of God in authority and power.
Gospel (Luke 24:44-53). After the risen Jesus meets with his disciples, he leads them to Bethany where in the act of blessing them, he is taken to heaven.
Psalm of the Day (Psalm 110). "Sit at my right hand, till I make your enemies your footstool (v. 1)."
Prayer of the Day: "Almighty God, your only Son was taken up into heaven and in power intercedes for us. May we also come into your presence and live forever in your glory."
Hymn of the Day: "A Hymn Of Glory Let Us Sing"
Explanation
Mark 16:19-20
Up (v. 19). Where is "up?" How high is "up?" Heaven is considered to be up above us. It reflects the biblical three-story universe. Heaven is above the earth and Hades (Sheol) is under the earth. It is metaphorical language. We instinctively consider God, goodness, truth and holiness to be high above us. To go down is to go to despair, defeat, death and Satan.
Heaven (v. 19). Jesus was taken into heaven. Where is heaven? It us "up." What is heaven? Is it a place? Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:3)." It is not a physical place, for Paul said, "Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:50)." Heaven is a place or focus where God and Christ are together with the faithful who died in Christ. Heaven is a oneness with Christ. To be with Christ means life, peace and joy.
Right hand (v. 19). The "right hand" is symbolic of Christ's primary status with the Father. He is second to none. He shares with the Father all glory, power and dominion. At the Father's right hand Jesus rules as King of kings.
Luke 24:44-53
Fulfilled (v. 44). Jesus saw his ministry as a fulfillment of prophecy recorded in the scriptures of his day: prophets, law, psalms. His coming was not a new thing. He was not an innovator. His ministry was the culmination of God's plan of salvation from the time of Adam's fall. He was sent to do the will of God. He completed his mission successfully and was now ready to return to his Father.
Opened (v. 45). Before the disciples could understand, Jesus had to open their minds. Closed minds, prejudiced minds, empty minds cannot fathom divine truth. Before we can perceive the truth of scriptures, it is necessary to pray for open, receptive minds.
Repentance and forgiveness (v. 47). Jesus sends his men to go out and preach. What shall they preach? They are to proclaim "forgiveness and repentance." These two are the essentials and fundamentals of the church's witness. They imply that all humans are sinners in need of repentance and forgiveness. Which comes first - repentance or forgiveness? Is repentance a condition of forgiveness? Repentance is a condition to receive forgiveness but not a condition of God's forgiveness. As a God of love and grace, he is always willing to forgive. But, repentance makes one want to be forgiven and able to receive forgiveness.
Promise (v. 49). In Luke there is no record that Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit. We have to go to John 16 for it. Here Luke is probably referring to Joel 2:28-29. The promise was fulfilled on Pentecost.
Bethany (v. 50). Bethany is a village near the Mount of Olives (Acts 1:12) which is two miles from Jerusalem. The Mount of Olives is a mile long ridge which is separated from Jerusalem by the Kidron Valley. Bethany was the hometown of Mary, Martha and Lazarus where Jesus often visited. On the mount at Bethany Jesus took his leave.
Acts 1:1-11
Luke gives two accounts of the ascension. In his gospel, the ascension brings the life and ministry of Jesus to a close. In Acts, the ascension is the beginning of the Spirit's ministry in and through the church. Now the body of Christ on earth is the church. Christ comes to the church in and through the Holy Spirit.
In this passage Luke explains the post-resurrection ministry of Jesus. His disciples are to wait for the promised Spirit who will give them power to be his witnesses throughout the world. Now Jesus leaves, but the men keep watching the event. Two men had to bring them back to reality by saying, "Why are you gazing into heaven? You have work to do, the work Jesus gave you. It is time to go to work, for some day he will be returning for an account of your stewardship."
Application
Relevance Of Revelation
1. The neglect of the ascension in the contemporary church. During the past 25 years or more the church seems to have put the ascension on the back burner. Heretofore, the ascension was celebrated as a major festival. Churches were named after the ascension. One of the oldest Lutheran churches in Georgia is the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Savannah. In Pottsville, Pennsylvania, there is a painting of the ascending Christ in the center panel of the reredos. In the Philadelphia Lutheran Seminary chapel, above the altar is a large stained glass window depicting the about-to-ascend Jesus giving the disciples located at his feet the great commission to preach the gospel. For five days each week for three years we students came to chapel and saw this window of the ascension. One can imagine and understand what effects the ascension had on the minds and hearts of these young seminarians.
Is today's church neglecting the ascension? Few churches have Ascension Day services because the festival falls on a Thursday. Because so few people come to a special service during the week, many pastors feel the effort of getting up another sermon is not justified. In a recent hymnal only four out of 569 hymns deal with the ascension.
Before we deal with the preparation of a sermon on the miracle of the ascension, we need to be convinced that its observance is worth our time and effort. Are there truths and values in the ascension that are nowhere else? What would be missing if we omitted the ascension? For centuries the church has been celebrating the festival. Shall we stop now?
2. The ancient vs. modern scientific world. For some with a knowledge of modern science the ascension is ludicrous. The ancient biblical world has a simple three-story universe. The modern scientific world tells us of a space world with planets, stars and galaxies that are billions of miles from the earth. In today's world there is no up or down. There is endless space. How could a person like Jesus ascend into space? Soon there would be no oxygen and the cold temperature would make life impossible. Some modern people therefore reject the ascension as a myth.
How then can we deal with the ascension in the sermon? Basically the ascension is a mystery and a miracle. We cannot explain it in scientific terms. Was the risen Jesus a spiritual being only? We remember God is a Spirit; he is not a man. Heaven is a spiritual realm. The risen Christ had a mysterious, glorified body that could be both physical and spiritual. In preaching on the ascension we need not get stymied by the scientific trivia. There are values and truths related to the ascension. After all, the ascension is a miracle. And who can fully understand or explain a miracle? We can only learn from it!
3. Year after year. The three-year cycle of the Common Lectionary provides the same lections for each year for the ascension. This can be a problem for a preacher because the text is the same each Ascension Day. This calls for imagination, insight and resourcefulness for a preacher to discover new ideas and approaches year after year. Since there are three lections, a text can be taken from one of the Lessons. In the succeeding years, the text can be taken from the remaining Lessons.
4. The Ascension today. The ascension gives an answer to questions that the laity are asking about Jesus. Where is Jesus now? What is he doing now? Without the ascension, is Jesus still on earth? If on earth, where is his body? If the body is alive, where can it be seen? Ascension puts the capstone on the arch of Jesus' life and ministry. As he came from God in heaven, he returned to God in heaven. He has returned to rule as king of the universe. He intercedes for us to the Father. In the fullness of time he will return to bring history to a triumphant end.
Sermon Suggestions
1. Up but Not Away! Jesus ascended to our Father in heaven. He went up, up and nobody knows how far. It is the distance between the sinfulness of humanity and the holiness of God. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:9)." Jesus is so far away from us on earth but yet so very close. He promised, "I am with you always (Matthew 28:20)." He is present in the Holy Spirit who abides in us. At the ascension he goes up but not away from us.
2. The Perpendicular in Your Life. The ascension teaches us that we need the perpendicular dimension in our lives. We do live necessarily at times on the horizontal plane because we must live in a material world with all the bodily needs. But, we are more than bodies. We are essentially souls clothed with bodies. We are admonished, "Lift up your heads (Luke 21:28)" and "Seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1)." What constitutes the perpendicular dimension? Faith, hope, dreams, worthy goals and beautiful thoughts. "I will lift up my eyes to the hills (Psalm 121:1)."
3. The Ups in Jesus' Life. The ascension is not the only time Jesus went up. His entire life was a matter of going up. He went up to the Mount of Transfiguration. He went up to Jerusalem for his passion. He went up to the Mount of Olives for prayer in Gethsemane and later for his departure. Our redemption depends on his going up: "I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself (John 12:32)." For a Christian, life is not a "downer" but an "upper."
4. The End is the Beginning. Jesus' ministry on earth marks the end. He leaves for heaven. The end marks also the beginning for the church. Now the church is to get busy and continue the work that the historical Jesus did: preaching, teaching and healing. At the ascension two men called the disciples' attention to their calling by asking, "Why do you stand looking into heaven (Acts 1:11)?" Christians are not to constantly look at the stars but they have work to do and heavy loads to lift. The church begins at the ascension and not only on Pentecost.
5. His Ascension and Ours. Paul tells us that as Christ was raised, so shall we. Does this apply also to the ascension? For Jesus the ascension was a time of exaltation, celebration and victory. Jesus returns to the Father with "mission accomplished." He paid the sacrifice; the world has been reconciled to God and the way to God is now open. When we physically die, we are assured that we will go to paradise to be with Jesus. When we get to heaven, will we get a similar reception? Will we hear God saying, "Well done, you good and faithful servant?" Will God the Father welcome each of us as the father of the prodigal welcomed his lost son with open arms?
6. Now he is for Everyone. By reason of the ascension Jesus changes from a concrete to a cosmic Christ. On earth he was local; in heaven he is universal. Limited by time and space, Jesus could teach and preach only to those in Israel. Now through the church he preaches in every nation. His hands could be laid upon a limited number for blessing and healing. Now through the church's institutions, he heals millions. Only a handful could ask him for help, but now billions can pray to him. Jesus is now available to every person of every generation. Thanks be to God for his ascension!
7. Jesus Prays for You. When on earth Jesus prayed for persons like Peter: "I have prayed for you that your faith fail not." At the right hand of God, Jesus now prays for all who pray to him. He is our High Priest who intercedes for us with the Father. Who are we as poor sinners to go directly to the infinite, holy God? We must have an intercessor who is close to God. Thus, we pray through Christ and in his name.
Sermon Structures
1. Glad He's Gone! (John 14:28; Luke 24:52). In his last discourse with the disciples before his crucifixion, Jesus told them that they would rejoice over his leaving them. After his ascension, Luke reports that they returned to Jerusalem "with great joy." Why would they and why should we rejoice that Jesus left the earth at his ascension?
A. Rejoice over Jesus' victory at the right hand of God - Ephesians 1:20-22
B. Rejoice that the Holy Spirit is coming - Acts 1:8
C. Rejoice that he is always with us - Matthew 28:20
2. Jesus' Last Words (Matthew 28:16-20). Matthew does not specifically report the actual ascension but he gives us exceedingly important words before he departs. This is his last will and testament, the great commission to the church then and now.
A. Purpose - "Go therefore ..." - v. 19
B. Power to accomplish the purpose - "All power ..." - v. 18
C. Promise of his presence - "I will be with you ..." - v. 20
3. Because Jesus Ascended. Because Jesus ascended to his Father, great consequences resulted for us on earth. What difference his ascension makes -
A. Jesus prays for us - Hebrews 7:25
B. Jesus is with us - Matthew 28:20
C. Jesus' spirit is with us - Acts 1:8
D. Jesus rules as King of kings - Ephesians 1:21
4. What Jesus Left Behind. When Jesus went to his Father, he did not take all with him. He left much on earth. This involves us still on earth. What did he leave behind?
A. A church - disciples - Acts 1:11
B. A world to win - Matthew 28:19; Luke 24:47
C. His presence - Matthew 28:20
D. His power - Acts 1:8
5. The Good of His Going (John 16:7). The ascension was good for Jesus: exaltation, celebration, praise, dominion and glory. But, it was also good for us. Jesus said his going was expedient for us. Why is it for our good?
A. His going gives us a task - Luke 24:47
B. His going brings the Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8
C. His going gives us the hope of his return - Acts 1:11
6. Jesus Ascended - So What? The ascension meant everything to Jesus, but what does it mean to people in the coming 21st century? Consider the following -
A. We rejoice - "Returned to Jerusalem with great joy" - Luke 24:52
B. We worship - Luke 24:53
C. We obey Jesus' command - "They returned to Jerusalem" - Luke 24:52
D. We trust his promise of the Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8
7. See it Whole! The ascension is not an isolated event. It needs to be seen and experienced in the perspective of Jesus' whole ministry. See the ascension in connection with -
A. The great commission - Matthew 28:16-20
B. The promise of the Holy Spirit - Luke 24:49
C. The Parousia - Acts 1:11
Illustration
Departure with a Song. In his Journal John Wesley tells of his mother's dying request. "From three to four the silver cord was loosing, and the wheel breaking at the cistern; and then the soul was set at liberty. We stood round the bed and fulfilled her last request: 'Children, as soon as I am released, sing a psalm of praise to God.' " At Jesus' departure to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy.
No Other Plan. When the 11 watched Jesus ascend, two men in white asked them why they continued to gaze up into heaven. They were commissioned to carry out his great commission. There is a legend telling how Gabriel met Jesus at the gate of heaven when he returned from earth. "What have you achieved?" the archangel asked. "What results have you left behind on earth?" "I have left," answered Jesus, "11 men who believe in me." "Is that all?" demanded Gabriel. Jesus answered, "It is all." "But what if they shall fail you? Have you no other plan?" Gabriel asked. Simply and hopefully Jesus replied, "I have no other plan."
Right Hand. During a Civil War battle Stonewall Jackson was mistakenly shot by his own men. His left arm was so badly injured that it was necessary to amputate it. Shortly thereafter Jackson died of pneumonia. When General Robert E. Lee heard the report, he said, "Stonewall Jackson lost his left arm but in him I have lost my right arm."
Coronation. When Jesus returned to the Father, he was exalted and crowned King of kings. In Westminster Abbey, London, there is in the chapel of Edward the Confessor the Coronation Chair. All the kings and queens of England have sat on it for their coronation. It is marked, scratched and rather ugly. Initials and names are carved on it like so much graffiti. It may not be beautiful, but it is a prized possession with national significance.
Witnesses. Before Jesus ascended, he promised power by the Spirit. It was a power to be witnesses everywhere. A certain missionary doctor in an overseas hospital removed cataracts from a man's eyes and restored his sight. Some weeks later the doctor was surprised to see 48 blind men coming to the hospital. Each one held onto a rope which was guided by the man who recently received his sight by the removal of the cataracts. He led the men for a distance of 250 miles to the physician who gave him sight. It was his witness that brought them to the doctor.
Perpendicular Dimension. Near Rome, Georgia, there is a college known as Berry School founded by Martha Berry for young people in the Appalachian area. It has the largest campus in America. On the campus are farms and factories where students work their way through college. Arising from the center of a barn roof is a spire usually seen on churches. Martha Berry ordered her architect to put the spire on the barn as though it were a church. The architect asked why put a spire on a barn. She explained that when the students are working in the fields or barnyard, they could look up and see that their work was a part of their worship. It gave them a perpendicular dimension to their lives.
Christian Joy. After the ascension the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. Before leaving he told them that they would rejoice at his leaving because he was returning to the Father. E. Stanley Jones was preaching one Sunday morning on the subject of joy. In the middle of the congregation was a woman with the sourest and longest face as though she were sucking a sour pickle. After the service, she came to Jones and told him how very happy she was. He replied, "Well, lady, you need to send a telegram to your face about your happiness."
