Mark 16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. The hidden source of the Christian's spiritual life is with Christ in God. To Him he looks as his treasure — his treasure in heaven; thither does he endeavour in heart and mind to ascend; he sets his affections on things above; he seeks those things which are at the right hand of God, with Christ, to be dispensed by Him, according to His promise. The ascension was the great consummation of Christ's work. Observe in this connection — I. THE PERIOD AT WHICH HE ASCENDED: after He has spoken to the apostles. He did not leave them until His prophetical work on earth was done, and He had provided for the continued application of the benefits He had secured for mankind. II. WHENCE HE WAS RECEIVED: from the Mount of Olives. A favourite spot, and one hallowed by frequent communion with His Father, and close to the garden where He rendered His will to God. The valley of humiliation was changed into the mount of triumph. III. BY WHOM He was received: by the holy angels. What joy for them! They ushered Him into the Presence chamber of Jehovah, and there He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on High. IV. THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH HE ASCENDED. 1. To prepare a place for His people. 2. To rule and order all things for the glory of God. 3. To intercede for all who come to God by Him. 4. To send the Holy Spirit to dwell with His people and guide them into all the truth.That Blessed Spirit is the true remedy for all the wants we feel, for the coldness of our hearts towards Him, for our many departures from His will, our many shortcomings and turnings aside from Him. (Bp. F. Barker, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. |
    |