Victorious Living

Victorious Living: Courageous Confession

“Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin is always before me.” Psalm 51:2-3 (NKJ)

The 51st Psalm is God’s lesson on confession. It was authored by King David after he was confronted by Nathan the prophet for his adulterous affair with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband, Uriah. The whole incident was not unlike the stories we read in the gossip tabloid or see in the latest “made for television” sequel. King David, however, gives us a better approach to confession.

First, King David quickly accepted responsibility for his behavior and pleaded guilty to all charges. He immediately called upon God for forgiveness. He offers no excuses but appealed to God to “blot out, wash and cleanse him” from his “transgressions, iniquity, and sin.”

“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge.” (VV. 3-4)

Next, King David recounted God’s expectation of him, as a man and as the leader of Israel. Though King David had perpetrated this crime against Uriah, he answered to a Higher Judge, the omniscient God, who see, hears, and knows all things. There are no “hidden sins” in His presence.

“Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.” (VV. 4-6)

Finally, King David was concerned about his broken relationship with God. He had the unique opportunity of walking closely with the Lord most of his life beginning as a young shepherd boy in the hills of Bethlehem. He longed to be restored to that relationship.

“Create in me a pure heart, 0 God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (VV.10-12)

It is important that we learn to quickly confess our sins. Unconfessed sin results in guilt and shame, spiritual strongholds in our lives, and even worst, a broken relationship with God. Therein lies the power in confession. Power comes from the One who is “faithful to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

“Who is a God like You, who pardons sin and forgives transgressions?” (Micah 7:18) There is none O Lord like You.

Knowing God

Discovering God in the Psalms: In God We Trust

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear.
What can flesh do to me?” Psalm 56:3, 4 (NKJ)

There is much to fear as we look around today. The daily news is replete with things that cause us to be “fearful”. We face “tribulation and distress, persecution and famine; nakedness, peril, and sword” (Rom. 8:35); not to mention “pestilence that walk in darkness” (Ps. 91:6). How are we to respond? I offer you an alternative to fear—put your trust in God.

The background for today’s Psalm can be found in 1 Samuel 21:8-15, where we are told of David’s escape to Gath, the stronghold of the Philistines, arch enemies of Israel. The Philistines were well acquainted with David for he had championed the killing of Goliath of Gath when he was only a young shepherd boy (1 Sam. 17). Since then, he had been anointed by Samuel the prophet as the heir apparent to the throne of Israel receiving praises from the people for his many conquests (1 Sam. 18:7). However, those praises had resulted in a death wish from King Saul who now sought David’s life. Now this young man runs for fear of his life to a place of even greater peril and sure death. He now stands captured by his worst enemy, the king of the Philistines.

Psalm 56 is identified as a song for the distressed. We would agree that David was in distress. We sometimes describe it as being “between a rock and a hard place.” Like David, we sometimes find ourselves wedged between many rocks and brutal hard places. Sometimes this happens as a result of others, like Saul, and other times it is the result of our own disobedience and waywardness. In those times of distress and fear, we are to call out like David—“In God, I have put my trust.”

“I have put my trust” is translated in Hebrew, batach, which means “bold and confident”. The description means to literally “throw oneself down, extended on the ground, upon his face.” Can you imagine that picture? David, literally throwing himself on the mercy of God, fully confident and bold; defiantly proclaiming, “What can flesh do to me?” I wonder if his mind reflected back on God’s mighty hand of deliverance in his earlier battle with fear as he faced Goliath. Did he recall the many times God intervened on his behalf as King Saul sought to capture and kill him? His eye was not on the source of his fear but on the Deliverer of his soul. David’s spirit was humbled, cast down in full confidence and trust in Almighty God for his life—not the Philistine king.

As we face the many challenges of life that tend to shake the very foundation of our faith, let us “put our trust” in the one who is able to deliver us from all harm (Ps. 46:2). Remember those times that God stepped in to deliver you and brought you to a point of safety. Exchange your fear for bold confidence (Ps. 20:7). Stretch out on “mature” faith, like David, and expect miracles, signs, and wonders. Although we flippantly have inscribed on our coins, “In God we trust”, it’s now time to write upon our hearts the Psalmist’s words, “I have put my trust in God.”

Knowing God

Truth or Consequences

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6

In the 60’s there was a game show called Truth or Consequences where contestants received two seconds to answer a trivia question correctly. If the contestant could not complete the “Truth” portion, there would be “Consequences”, usually a zany and embarrassing stunt. From the start, most contestants preferred to answer the question wrong in order to perform the stunt. Unfortunately, our inability to respond correctly to the truth of God can result in graver spiritual consequences than an embarrassing stunt. How then are we to respond to God’s truth?

When we hear the Word of God (which is truth), our first response is to decide how it fits with our current reality. Reality is the state of things as they actually exist. For believers, God is the source of life from which we derive our meaning and our reality (Gal. 2:20; 1 Pet. 4:1-2). Therefore, when God’s truth is received, believers are to allow it to reshape their thinking according to God’s standards and adjust their behavior accordingly (Rom. 12:2). The Holy Spirit is the Agent within believers who guides us into all truth and helps us to discern God’s will (John 16:13). However, if we choose to reject God’s truth and disregard the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can expect unpleasant consequences as a result of our willful disobedience. “If we deliberately continue sinning after we have received a full knowledge of the truth, there is no other sacrifice that will cover these sins. There will be nothing to look forward to but the terrible expectation of God’s judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies.” (Hebrews 10:26-27, NLT) God’s truth leads to consequences that are either good or bad.

If one’s reality and meaning is not anchored in Christ, a dilemma arises when presented with God’s truth. The dilemma is created because a decision must be made as to whose “word” will be accepted as truth—the world’s, Satan’s or God’s? Jesus’ teaching as recorded in the Gospels created such a dilemma for all who came into contact with Him. The disciples left there safe vocations to become apostles who would witness to the truth of the gospel (Acts 4:33). Those who were healed and delivered from spiritual bondage found life and freedom in the truth that Jesus offered (John 8:32). Upon receiving the truth from Jesus at the well, the Samaritan women joyfully invited others to drink of the living water she had received (John 4:29). Jesus’ truth causes those who hear it to exchange their current reality for one that includes the “grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the sweet communion of the Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 13:14). God’s truth creates a moral dilemma for people.

So how are we to respond to the light of God’s truth? As believers we are to live a life that is “rooted and grounded” in the Lord. Our lives are to be lived “authentically” without hypocrisy, obediently giving preference to the Lord who is the Head of all things (Col. 1:17-19). Our affirmation of faith is to be more than flowery words but “love in action”—extending God’s love to all we meet. Lastly, we are to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ so that men will come to Him Who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life” (1 John 5:20).

Knowing God

Knowledge of the Truth, Part 2

“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you…that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1:9-10 (KJV)

Let me begin by addressing last week’s question as to the eternal salvation of the person who accepts Christ yet doesn’t live in a manner that pleases God. Bottom-line, the final determination can only be made by Christ on the Day of Judgment (Rev. 20:11-15). However, God’s Word does indicate that genuine believers are expected to respond to the truth they have received and that response should then be evidenced in: (1) a transformed life (2 Cor. 5:17) and (2) good works (2 Tim. 3:17; James 3:13).

What is included in the knowledge of truth? Truth is the full realization as to who God is and acceptance of His plan for our lives. The life exposed to the knowledge of the truth should result in transformed living that glorifies God. It is not an intellectual exercise or a test of proficiency but changed behavior. What is the end product of this transformation? Conformity to the image of Christ! We may often hear that we resemble the physical appearance or behavioral idiosyncrasies of our earthly parents. Since believers are “born again” (1 Pet. 1:3), we should now begin to take on the character and behavior of our Heavenly Father, holy and pure (1 Pet. 1:15). As we daily read God’s Word and are filled by (obedient to) the Holy Spirit, we are transformed and then molded into Christ-likeness. We are renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created us to the image of the One who created us (Col. 3:10). Since you accepted Jesus Christ as your savior, do people see a difference in your life? Whose nature do you reflect—God’s or the world’s?

What is the evidence that we have received the knowledge of God’s truth? We walk worthy of Him “being fruitful in every good work” (Col. 1:10). Good works are the fruit of our faith—not the root. We are not saved through our works but our “new nature in Christ” is evidenced by “good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ep. 2:10). In this is God honored. Everything Jesus did was to honor and glorify God. On the contrary, the religious leaders of that day were untruthful and dishonoring of the God they professed to serve. When people see believers, do they see Jesus? Do they see the true character of God in our life style and our business transactions?

Increasing (auxanō) in the knowledge of God indicates progress in the believer’s walk of faith. This type of knowledge (epignosis) involves “participation by the knower in the object known resulting in powerful influence.” Such knowledge insures an unbroken and evolving relationship. Jesus illustrated this kind of knowledge in His story of the Good Shepherd (John 10). The Good Shepherd knew His sheep and His sheep knew His voice. This knowledge protected the vulnerable sheep from the neglectful hireling within and from the ravenous wolves without. Today our knowledge of God will protect us against wolves and hirelings. Satan, the world, and our unredeemed flesh attempt to entice us away from the protection and the direction of the Good Shepherd. It is the knowledge of God and the truth derived from it that help us to discern truth from the spirit of error (1 John 3:2-3). Whose voice do you listen to? Who or what is influencing your life?

Knowledge of the truth, results in the believer’s ability to “walk worthy of the Lord”. Through embracing the truth found in God’s Word and through the Holy Spirit, the believer is able to live a life that is well pleasing to God, conformed to the image of Christ evidenced by good works (Matt. 7:16).

Good to the Last Byte…

Knowledge of God’s truth offers the peace, contentment, and authenticity the 21st century world is desperately seeking. It cannot be found in materialism, hedonism, or secularism. If Jesus were personally ministering in 2015, I’m sure His solution for the needs of the world would remain the same as they were for the 1st century world: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus is still the answer.

Knowing God

Knowledge of the Truth, Part 1

[God] desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Tim. 2:4 (KJV)

I was recently asked: “If a person invites Jesus into their life are they saved for eternity—even if they don’t live in a manner that is pleasing to God?” This is a familiar question that has been asked by both believers and nonbelievers. What lies behind their inquiries is genuine concerned for the eternal destiny of their friends and family. My response to this question is framed by the nature of God—His goodness and His greatness and the infallibility of His Word. God desires that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.

“Knowledge” (epignōsis) denotes “an exact knowledge that perfectly unites the subject with the object” versus an abstract understanding. The use of knowledge in this passage goes beyond a superficial understanding but reflects a thorough and complete knowledge. Vine’s Expository Dictionary describes knowledge as that which involves “participation by the knower in the object known” thus powerfully influencing him. This is the kind of knowledge God desires that His children have of Him (Eph. 1:17).

In this text, “truth” (aletheia) refers to the truth taught in the Christian religion, respecting God and the execution of his purposes through Christ; subjectively it refers to integrity of character. Such character is only possible by the transformative power of the Gospel and through the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:8-13).

“To come to” or attain the knowledge of the truth is God’s desire for all unbelievers. The knowledge of truth—things pertaining to God—becomes the vehicle of understanding whereby unredeemed man can realized his spiritual depravity and acknowledge His need for a Living Savior. Armed with the knowledge of the truth, the unbeliever can see truth. Lies once hidden from his view are now fully exposed. The new believer is then able to participate in an intimate relationship with God and appropriate the spiritual blessings promised to him (Eph. 1:3. This includes their eternal salvation (Heb. 5:9).

With regard to the opening question, some theologians explain the believer’s continuation in sin as proof “they were never saved in the first place.” This explanation is neither for me to accept nor reject. That is a matter to be addressed between that believer and Jesus on the Day when “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Corinthians 5:10). Next week we’ll continue discussion of the knowledge of the truth as it relates to believers and its impact on their life and eternal security.

Spiritual Maturity

Stay on the Path

Leave a comment

 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.” Matthew 7: 13-14 (NIV)

There was a commercial a few years ago for financial planning that featured a wide green path and arrow to guide the investor along life’s path. As the investor strolls through the city, they were tempted to step off the path to pursue things that could hinder their ability to accomplish their long-term investment plans. The voice of the financial adviser coaches the investor to “just stay on the path.” The implication is that as long as the investor “stays on the path” they will realize their financial goals and live happily ever after. This commercial reminded me of ­­­­­­­Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount concerning the two paths individuals can choose in life.

Jesus tells His listeners to, “Enter through the narrow gate.” The King James Bible version renders narrow as “strait.” Strait (stenos) refers to a narrowness created by obstacles standing close about.   These obstacles could be the world’s view on how we are to enter God’s kingdom. Jesus’ point in this teaching is that the way to life is through a portal providing controlled access along a narrow way defined by God. In contrast, the wide highway represents the world’s “substitute” for the way of life. The end, of course, is death.

As I talk with believers about activities in their local churches, I am disturbed and heartbroken. The Church, which was created to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13), is choosing to “get off the path”.  Churches across this country have abandoned teaching and preaching the “full counsel” of God for “trendy methods” of ministry. The “fervent prayers of the righteous” (James 5:16) have been replaced with small group discussions on why the church should practice religious tolerance. Churches are more concerned with not offending others than with grieving the Holy Spirit. Peter reminded the early church, that Christ Himself was “a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence” (1 Peter 2:8).

It is extremely difficult to stay on the path of God when our modern culture and changing social norms are encouraging us to do otherwise. It is critical–life affecting–that we stand fast in our faith (1 Peter 5:12) and resist being lured to “enter through the wide gate.” Stay on the path until you reach your eternal goal of heaven. Remember, it is a narrow path that leads to life, and only a few find it.

 Good to the Last Byte…

Do not be enticed by false teachings with their “faith-by-works, all-roads-lead-to-God” beliefs. Peter reminds us that we are a “peculiar” (God’s own) people chosen to proclaim God’s mighty acts (1 Peter 2:9).

Spiritual Guidance

The Paths of God

What comes to your mind when you think of paths? For me, I visualize the well-worn shortcut I followed as a child, as I ventured to my grandmother’s house on Sunday afternoon.  While hidden from the casual traveler in the area, this path represented a familiar and direct route to my final destination. For believers, the paths of God will also lead to our final destination-eternity with Him. Join the Psalmist David as he explores the paths of God.

The 25th Psalm was written by David and given the title, “Prayer for Guidance and Deliverance.” It is fitting then that we speak of the paths of God in the context of guidance and deliverance. The Hebrew translation for path is orach (o’-rakh) and is used to described as a well-trodden road. Orach appears fifty-eight (58) times in the Old Testament; found predominately in the books of Proverbs, Psalms, and Job. Most often it is used in a figurative way, describing the way to life or to death. (Prov. 4:14)

In our text, David is asking God to teach him His paths–the ways to life (to be pursued) AND the ways to death (to be avoided). God’s paths represent His best for our lives, even when we don’t understand where the “end” will take us. We can trust in God. (v.2) We can be confident He will lead us in mercy and truth (vv. 5 and 10) and that His paths reflect His tender mercies and lovingkindness. (v. 6) As we travel the paths of God, “He will teach us of His ways and we will walk in His paths.” (Micah 4:2) Where do we begin?

  1. Meditate on God’s Word.   There we will learn of God’s ways. “They word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my paths.” (Ps. 119:105)
  2. Spend time with God.   There we better understand God’s path for our life. “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Ps. 16:11)
  3. Listen for His Voice.  There we align our thoughts with the God’s through the Holy Spirit.  “The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.” (John 14:17)

Knowing God’s paths will relieve worry and concern with the events in the world and in our life. Be aware of the paths God daily chooses for you. Because of His lovingkindness, we can trust that He will always “lead us in the way that you should go.” (Ps. 143:8) All the paths of God are good.

Good to the Last Byte…

Paths are very different from highways. While the later are usually traveled by greater numbers of people, paths offer a more solitary route for arrival. While highways offer a better maintained and smoother journey, paths are found in areas where the terrain is rough and uneven in spots. Paths may be well-trodden by the few who found them both dependable and worthwhile. Following God’s “paths of righteousness” (Ps. 23:3) will get you where you need to go–on earth and through eternity.

The Holy Spirit

Cooperating with the Holy Spirit

“It is God who works in us to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Phil. 2:13 (NKJ)

Last week, we focused our study on Pentecost and the person of the Holy Spirit. It is through His presence that we are empowered for service to the Lord. The work that has been entrusted to us is destined for success because of the Holy Spirit working within us (Phil. 1:6). If this success is underwritten by the Holy Spirit, why aren’t we Christians experiencing greater victory in our personal lives and ministries?

The key to unlocking the gift of the Holy Spirit is our willingness to cooperate with the Holy Spirit. Yes, I said cooperate. To cooperate means to work or act together toward a common end or purpose. It also means to acquiesce willingly. Cooperation is critical in every endeavor a person may attempt. Let me illustrate the importance of cooperation with the following illustration. You have recently received your pilot’s license. You have been trained in the areas of aeronautical engineering, flight routing, and are familiar with all the information manuals and charts. However, if you refuse to cooperate with the air traffic controller and the air tower, you are doomed to crash. The Holy Spirit is our “controller.” We must work with Him to insure spiritual success. How do we impede His work?

By grieving the Spirit. “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” (Eph. 4:30, ESV) That which causes sorrow in the Holy Spirit is sin in the life of the believer. In Ephesians 4:29 and 31, Paul itemizes some of the sins that grieve the Holy Spirit—corrupt communications, bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil speaking, and malice. While many believers would classify only those grosser iniquities as sin, God mentions matters of the mind and spirit as well as those of the body.

By resisting the Spirit. “You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit!” (Acts 7:51) To resist, in Greek, is translated antipipto which means to “oppose.” In Stephen’s defense speech, he chronicles the history of the Jewish people from Abram to Christ—a history marked by consistent refusal to follow the instruction and leadership of God. Stephen called the Jewish leaders “stiff-necked.” This term originated in ancient Israel where the farmers would plow their fields by using oxen. If the ox didn’t want to follow the guidance of the farmer it would stiffen the muscles in its neck thereby making it impossible to guide the ox where it needed to go. We resist the Holy Spirit when we refuse to follow His guidance.

By quenching the Spirit. “Do not quench the Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19) In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Paul gives final instructions concerning holy living. In verses 16-18, he addresses individual believers’ personal life before God; verses 19-22 focus on life in the assembly of believers. “Do not put out the Spirit’s fire” references the Holy Spirit as a burning presence within individuals. In particular, it is the impartation of spiritual gifts to individual believers to edify and strengthen the local church. Refusal to uses one’s gifts and talents quenches the Spirit, thereby snuffing out the church’s ability to accomplish its purpose (Matt. 28:19).

I’d like to close by returning to the earlier piloting illustration. As the pilot, you may be assigned to “fly” your individual plane but it is the air traffic controller who “rules” the space in which your plane must operate, both in the air and on the ground. The air traffic controller knows the conditions ahead of you, the obstacles you may encounter, and your final destination, including you ETA—estimated time of arrival. Cooperating with the Holy Spirit is much like piloting a plane—you need to understand who really is in control. If you find yourself grieving, resisting, or quenching the Holy Spirit, seek forgiveness and then resolve to let Him guide your life. Learn to cooperate with the Holy Spirit today. Happy landing!

Prayer: Father God, we thank you for Your gift of the Holy Spirit. We resolve to cooperate with His leading and pledge obedience to the guidance He provides. Lord, forgive us when we act like stiff-necked oxen. We gladly receive your yoke which is easy and your burden which is light. It is in the name of our risen Savior that we pray. Amen

Pentecost

The Holy Spirit of Pentecost

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you.” Acts 1:8a (KJV)

This past Sunday was designated as Pentecost on the Christian calendar. It is celebrated in churches across the nation and around the world fifty days after Easter.

Pentecost or the Feast of the Weeks, was one of the three major feasts mandated by God for the Jewish people to observe (Deut. 16:16; Ex. 23:14, 15). It is to be celebrated fifty (50) days after the Passover Feast. With the completed work of salvation by Jesus Christ—His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension—Pentecost now takes on a new dimension and meaning for Christians with the arrival of the promised Holy Spirit (Acts 2). It was the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence that would enable Jesus’ disciples to continue the work He had begun. As importantly, Pentecost marked the availability of the Holy Spirit to everyone who would “call upon the name of Jesus” (Rom. 10:13; Acts 2:38); collectively, individuals responding in faith would form the Church promised by Jesus to His disciples (Matt. 16:18).

While we may know about the various ministries of the Holy Spirit, it is even more important to fully grasp the enormity of His Presence within us. Deity is living within us! I love the way Jesus described this phenomenon: “I (Jesus) in them (Believers) and You (God) in me, (so) that they may be made perfect in one” (John 17:23a). Like the disciples on the day of Pentecost we are in need of the Holy Spirit’s power and direction as we live for God’s glory. Pentecost is not only a day on the church calendar but it is an invitation to join with the Triune God in Their ministry of deliverance, wholeness, and grace (Eph. 2:10).

Stormie Omartian describes our ministry with the Holy Spirit this way:

God wants to lead you to places you cannot get to without Him, and He does that by the power of His Spirit. He can bring you into the realm of the miraculous—not as a show, but as a demonstration of His love and compassion for the lost, hurting, or needy. Who among us doesn’t want or need that?

Good to the Last Byte…
The Christian calendar is organized around two major centers of Sacred Time: Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany; and Lent, Holy Week, and Easter, concluding at Pentecost. The rest of the year following Pentecost is known as Ordinary Time, from the word “ordinal,” which simply means counted time (First Sunday after Pentecost, etc.). Ordinary Time is used to focus on various aspects of the Faith, especially the mission of the church in the world. Some church traditions break up ordinary time into a Pentecost Season, (Pentecost until the next to last Sunday of August) and Kingdomtide (last Sunday of August until the beginning of Advent).

Eastertide

Everything’s Looking Up, Part 2

“And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” Luke 24:51 (KJV)

We spend a lot of time talking about the incarnation of Christ, the crucifixion and the resurrection but often neglect the ascension, a key element in the ministry and work of Christ. If we stop at the resurrection event, we miss the full power of God. This power that raised Jesus from the grave also lifted Him to heaven. The ascension completes the ministry of Christ as affirmed in our Statement of Faith: “We believe in Jesus Christ…crucified, dead, and buried; the third day He arose from the dead; He ascended in heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty.” This statement successfully captures the full efficacy of Jesus’ ministry.

Christ’s ascension is a defining moment in Christianity much like His Advent. While the ascension marked the conclusion of Christ’s ministry on earth, it also initiated three (3) key changes for all who would follow Him as Lord and Savior. The Ascension would result in:

#1. The Holy Spirit’s ENTRANCE. Jesus had earlier reminded the Disciples that His departure was necessary in order that the Holy Spirit would come. This transference of power to the Disciples would occur through the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8) resulting in “even greater works” than had been accomplished by Jesus (John 14:12). The Holy Spirit’s arrival would also result in the “gifting” of individuals for the edification of the Church (Ep. 4:8). Lastly, the Holy Spirit would bring to remembrance the truths that Jesus had taught the disciples during His time with them. He would add clarity and understanding to many of Christ’s teachings that would later be included in the infallible record of the Gospels.

#2. The Disciples’ ENGAGEMENT. The forty days prior to Jesus’ ascension provided a critical transition period in which Jesus could prepare the Disciples for their new commission. During that time Jesus answered their questions, banished their fears, and opened their minds to the Scriptures (Luke 24:44-48). The ascension marked the beginning of the Disciples apostolic calling. After receipt of the Holy Spirit, they would be empowered to be the primary propagators of the Gospel beginning in Jerusalem and then expanding to Judea and Samaria and finally to the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8).

#3. Jesus Christ’s EXALTATION. After the ascension, Jesus Christ was placed on the throne at the right hand of God the Father. Jesus’ position of honor signified the acceptance of His “once for all” sacrifice for sin (Heb. 10:12) and His triumph over the forces of evil and Satan (Heb.2:14). Jesus has ascended to heaven where He now reigns as Lord and King (Rev. 19:16). It is there that He: (1) governs the universe, (2) rules the Church, (3) gives aid to believers, and (4) intercedes for believers. The ascended Christ is “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and above every name that named” (Ep. 1:21). In 2015 Jesus Christ reigns!

And what does all this business of ascension have to do with believers living in the 21st century? Everything! Although Christ’s entered through the filter of time, the impact of His life and ministry extends throughout eternity. Christ’s life, death, resurrection and ascension provide the foundation on which believers appropriate God’s grace—His mercy and His power. Our response is seen in a life style that reflects our Lord and King.

The Holy Spirit’s entrance provides believers with a litany of gifts and powers to successfully navigate in a chaotic and tumultuous world—much like that which the Disciples faced. He is there to provide guidance and direction to accomplish the purpose for which God has created us. The Holy Spirit is the source of truth in all things protecting us from the world’s deception and Satan’s lies (John 16:13).

The Disciples engagement is the same for believers today. Our commission is to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ within our sphere of influence. We too have received the call to faithfully evangelize whenever possible. We can begin our commission by witnessing to what we personally have seen Christ do in our lives and his love for others—love that was demonstrated by His death, resurrection, and ascension (Rom. 5:8). Through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, we too can turn the world upside down (Acts 17:6).

The knowledge of Christ’s exaltation is the place where believers can respond with great joy and confidence. Christ seated in heavenly places (Eph. 1:20) reigning as Lord and triumphant King of the universe. It is because of this fact that we can be assured that the world is not spinning out of control because He is sovereignly overseeing current history and our destiny (Ps. 103:19). In addition, Jesus love and benevolence doesn’t end with His ascent into heaven for it is there that He acts as our High Priest continually making intercession before the Father on our behalf (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25).

Jesus ascended “materialistically, physically, and bodily” into heaven. This is no fable or folklore; neither is this an illusion or the result of some mass hysteria. It happened then and Jesus will “return in like manner” (Act 1:11). Christ is ascended. And what should our response be? Like the Disciples let us worship and praise Him (Luke 24:52).

Crown Him with many crowns
The Lamb upon His throne
Hark! How the heavenly anthem drowns
All music but its own
Awake my soul and sing
Of Him who died for thee
And hail Him as the matchless King
Through all eternity.