Christ’s ascension is the sixth topic in our eight-part series, “Putting the Fun in…” the fundamentals (or essential doctrines) of Christianity. After his resurrection, Jesus appeared at least eleven times over forty days to more than 500 witnesses, and then he ascended to heaven (Acts 1:9) in the disciples’ presence (Acts 1:10-11). The ascension marked the end of his ministry on earth. But he has several heavenly roles while we await his second coming.

0:00 – Welcome 

1:41 – The events before Christ’s ascension: Crucifixion, Resurrection and Post-resurrection appearances of Jesus

2:30 – There were at least 11 appearances of Jesus post-resurrection to more than 500 witnesses (1 Cor.15:6). 

4:07 – Why are Christ’s appearances important? 

4:12 – 1. They proved his physical resurrected (John 20:27)

5:24 – 2. Taught his disciples how to interpret Scriptures correctly (Luke 24:27)

6:36 – 3. He promised the Holy Spirit’s coming to empower them (Acts 1:8).

7:22 – Forty days after his resurrection, he ascended to heaven in the presence of the disciples.  (Acts 1:9-11).

7:49 – Why is the ascension important? 

8:16 – 1. Marks the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry (Heb. 10:12)

8:59 – 2. Beginning of Jesus heavenly roles: Our King (Phil. 2:9-10), High Priest (Heb. 4:140), Mediator (1 Tim. 2:5), and Advocate (1 John 2:1)

9:55 – 3. Christ sends the Holy Spirit to empower disciples

10:13 – 4. Initiates Jesus’s role as Head over the Church (Rom. 12:5). 

11:15 – 5. Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven (John 14:3). 

11:24 – 6. It confirms Christ’s Second Coming.

12:09 – So What? We can have confidence before God because Jesus is our heavenly “sympathetic High Priest” (Heb 4:16) 

14:49 – Wrap-up.