Jesus – ascension
Christians believe that after he rose from the dead, Jesus did not die a second time. Instead, 40 days after his resurrectionThe Christian belief that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after the crucifixion. The rising from the dead of believers on the Last Day in a new, or risen, life., Jesus left the Earth by being taken up, body and soul, to HeavenA physical place, or a state of mind, associated with God and the afterlife. to re-join God the Father. This event is known as the ascensionFor Christians, when Jesus went up to Heaven 40 days after he rose from the dead., and Christians believe that it was witnessed by Jesus’ apostleOne who was sent out by Jesus to preach the gospel or 'good news'.. It is believed that Jesus said he would send the Holy Spirit to inspire and guide his apostles after his ascension.
The Gospel of Luke describes the ascension:
When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into Heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God (Luke 24:50–53).
Why the ascension is important to Christians
- It shows that Jesus really had overcome death - he wasn’t resurrected to die again, but to live forever.
- For Christians, the fact that Jesus’ followers witnessed him ascending into the clouds leaves no doubt that he is alive with the Father in Heaven, and is no longer limited to living on Earth.
- The ascension demonstrates God’s omnipotentAll-powerful..
Question
What happened at the ascension of Jesus?
Jesus went up (ascended) to Heaven, witnessed by some of his followers. This happened 40 days after the resurrection, in front of the apostles.
