Introduction

The return of Jesus to the Father, often referred to as the Ascension, is a pivotal event in Christian theology. It marks the culmination of Jesus' earthly ministry and His exaltation to the right hand of God. This event is recorded in the New Testament and holds significant theological implications for the understanding of Jesus' divine nature, His ongoing work, and the promise of His return.

Biblical Account

The Ascension is primarily documented in the New Testament in the books of Luke and Acts. In Luke 24:50-51 , it is written: "When Jesus had led them out as far as Bethany, He lifted up His hands and blessed them. While He was blessing them, He left them and was carried up into heaven." This passage highlights the blessing Jesus imparted to His disciples, signifying the continuation of His priestly role.

The book of Acts provides a more detailed account. Acts 1:9-11 states: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.'" This passage not only describes the physical ascension but also introduces the promise of Jesus' return.

Theological Significance

1. Exaltation and Authority: The Ascension signifies Jesus' exaltation and His enthronement at the right hand of the Father. Ephesians 1:20-21 speaks of God's power "which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in the present age but also in the one to come." This position of authority underscores Jesus' divine sovereignty and His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

2. Intercession: Jesus' return to the Father also marks the beginning of His intercessory work. Hebrews 7:25 states, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." This ongoing intercession is a source of comfort and assurance for believers, affirming that Jesus continues to advocate on their behalf.

3. Promise of the Holy Spirit: The Ascension is closely linked with the promise of the Holy Spirit. In John 16:7 , Jesus tells His disciples, "But I tell you the truth, it is for your benefit that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you." The sending of the Holy Spirit empowers the Church to continue Jesus' mission on earth.

4. Hope of His Return: The Ascension also sets the stage for the eschatological hope of Jesus' return. The promise given by the angels in Acts 1:11 assures believers of the certainty of His second coming, a central tenet of Christian eschatology that inspires hope and perseverance.

Conclusion

The return of Jesus to the Father is a foundational event that encapsulates the completion of His earthly mission and the inauguration of His heavenly ministry. It affirms His divine authority, His ongoing intercessory role, the empowerment of the Church through the Holy Spirit, and the future hope of His return. This event continues to be a source of theological reflection and spiritual encouragement for Christians throughout the ages.