The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

AN ASCENSION PREVIEW

Elijah’s unique ascension into heaven testified to his vital role as a prophet to the people of God at a very critical stage in their history. Elijah shared many similarities with John the Baptist, who would come later to help prepare the way for Jesus. Both John and Elijah lived in the desert, confronted the sinfulness of their day and urged the people to turn back to God. Jesus himself even pointed out the close association between these two mighty prophets (Mt 17:9 – 13). By his ascension into heaven, Elijah foreshadowed what Jesus would one day do (Lk 24:51). Luke records that those who witnessed Jesus’ ascension reacted in worship. Surely, those who witnessed Elijah’s miraculous ascension had a similar feeling of awe, fear and worship — not on account of Elijah, but on account of the glory of God.

Paul encouraged the church at Thessalonica as people raised questions about Jesus’ return. Believers at that time expected Jesus to return during their lifetime. As some of the believers died, other believers began to question what would happen to those who died before the second coming of Jesus. Paul told the church to encourage each other with reminders of their future with Christ (1Th 4:17 – 18). The ascension of Jesus is a precursor to what will happen to all who trust in Christ’s finished work. Jesus will return, and the dead will rise, join with those who are alive physically and in Christ, and be called up to the Lord (1Th 4:13 – 18). The ascensions of Elijah and Jesus provide a preview for what will happen to all those who have placed their faith in Jesus.

This hope and promise gives all followers of Jesus confidence and strength to endure life in this fallen and broken world. Following Elijah’s ascension, Elisha demonstrated the power of God on earth by working a host of miracles (2Ki 2:13 – 22; 4:1 — 6:23). Jesus’ disciples, following his ascension and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, also performed miracles which demonstrated the power of God (Ac 2:43). Today, believers know the power of God and the future hope that awaits all who are in Christ, and they can fully trust that God can and will use them to accomplish great things as well. Since believers know that they will one day join with Jesus, they can live out their days without fear. By the power of God’s Spirit, believers can live confidently and courageously, trusting that death does not have the final say.

Jesus, when I am getting bogged down with the cares of this world, help me to remember the glorious future in store for me. Help me to use this knowledge to encourage my brothers and sisters in you. Amen.