The concept of living in the power of the ascended Christ is rooted in the New Testament teachings about the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. This theological perspective emphasizes the transformative power available to believers through the ascension of Jesus, who now sits at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for His followers and empowering them through the Holy Spirit.

The Ascension of Christ

The ascension of Jesus is a pivotal event recorded in the New Testament, marking the culmination of His earthly ministry and His exaltation to the right hand of God. In Acts 1:9-11 , it is written: "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.'"

The ascension signifies Christ's victory over sin and death, His authority over all creation, and His ongoing priestly ministry on behalf of believers. It is a source of hope and assurance for Christians, as it confirms the promise of His return and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Empowerment through the Holy Spirit

The ascension of Christ is closely linked to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, as promised by Jesus in John 16:7 : "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 Holy Spirit empowers believers to live in the power of the ascended Christ, enabling them to fulfill the Great Commission and live lives that reflect the character and mission of Jesus.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes this empowerment in Ephesians 1:19-20 , where he speaks of "the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe. He displayed this power in the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms."

Union with Christ

Living in the power of the ascended Christ involves a profound union with Him, as believers are spiritually united with Christ in His death, resurrection, and ascension. This union is described in Colossians 3:1-3 : "Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."

This union with Christ transforms the believer's identity and purpose, calling them to live a life that reflects the reality of their position in Christ. It involves a continual process of sanctification, as believers are conformed to the image of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Victory over Sin and Death

The ascended Christ provides believers with victory over sin and death, as His triumph is shared with those who are in Him. Romans 8:34 declares: "Who is there to condemn us? For Christ Jesus, who died, and more than that was raised to life, is at the right hand of God—and He is interceding for us." This victory assures believers of their eternal security and empowers them to overcome the challenges and temptations of this world.

Intercession and Advocacy

As the ascended Christ intercedes for believers, He serves as their advocate before the Father. 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 provides believers with confidence and assurance in their relationship with God, knowing that Christ is continually advocating on their behalf.

Conclusion

Living in the power of the ascended Christ is a dynamic and transformative experience for believers, rooted in the reality of Christ's exaltation and His ongoing ministry. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, union with Christ, victory over sin, and the intercession of Jesus, Christians are called to live lives that reflect the glory and power of their risen and ascended Lord.