The event of Jesus' departure, often referred to as the Ascension, is a pivotal moment in Christian theology, marking the conclusion of Jesus Christ's earthly ministry and His return to the Father in heaven. This event is recorded in several New Testament passages, most notably in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles.

Biblical Accounts

The Ascension is explicitly described in Acts 1:9-11. After Jesus had given His final instructions to the apostles, "He was taken up before their eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight" (Acts 1:9). As the apostles gazed intently into the sky, two men in white appeared and said, "Men of Galilee, 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" (Acts 1:11).

The Gospel of Luke also provides an account of the Ascension. In Luke 24:50-51, it is written, "When He 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" .

Theological Significance

The Ascension signifies the exaltation of Jesus Christ. Having completed His redemptive work through His death and resurrection, Jesus ascends to the right hand of God, a position of power and authority. This is affirmed in Ephesians 1:20-21, which states that God "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" .

The event also marks the transition from Jesus' physical presence on earth to His spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit. Before His departure, Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit, who would empower the apostles to be His witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

Implications for Believers

For believers, the Ascension is a source of hope and assurance. It confirms Jesus' divine nature and His role as the eternal High Priest who intercedes for humanity. Hebrews 4:14-16 encourages believers to "hold firmly to the faith we profess" because "we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God" .

Furthermore, the Ascension assures believers of Jesus' eventual return. The promise given by the angels in Acts 1:11 serves as a reminder of the Second Coming, a future event when Jesus will return in glory to judge the living and the dead.

Liturgical Observance

The Ascension is traditionally celebrated on Ascension Day, observed on the 40th day of Easter, commemorating the day Jesus ascended into heaven. This feast is a time for Christians to reflect on the significance of Jesus' departure and His ongoing presence through the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

The event of Jesus' departure is a cornerstone of Christian faith, encapsulating themes of fulfillment, transition, and hope. It underscores the completion of Jesus' earthly mission and the beginning of the Church's mission to spread the Gospel to all nations.