Ephesians 4:8 NKJV
“Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men.”
Beloved, It’s time for us to truly appreciate what Christ has done for us. It’s not possible to truly appreciate all He has done without recognizing and remembering every component of Christ’s finished work. This includes His ascension. What gifts were made available to us when Christ ascended? Let’s review before we
The first is salvation- His precious gift that keeps on giving for all who are graced to receive.
Next, is the gift of the Holy Spirit.
“And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” -Luke 24:49 NLT
We talked last time of the importance and power of union with Him and all that it equips and qualifies us for. I want to take it a step further to declare unity as a critical gift that has been allocated to us, made possible by Christ’s ascension. In Colossians 2:9 it reads, “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily;” Colossians 2:9
When He ascended and rendered His Spirit, it’s just as He said:
“If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me” John 12:32
Beloved. Before leaving, He gave us a commandment:
“Go… and make disciples of all nations” Matthew 28:19
This starts with joining. First, you must join His body. If you have not given your life to Christ, now is the time. It’s not enough to call yourself a “Christian”. Anyone can check that box. Confess with your mouth and believe with your heart Christ as both your Savior and your Lord (Romans 10:9). Genuine belief is indicated by your actions. Declare it and genuinely surrender your life to Him in exchange for eternal life and union with Him, forever.
Next, you must ask the Lord, who is my pastor and where is my fold. It is critical that, in addition to joining the universal Body of Christ, you become a joint and son in your God-ordained local church. This is how you get your portion in Him and begin to take up your assignments and service in Him. In turn you get to enjoy the glorious benefits of partnership with Him.
Finally you will bring others:
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Accomplish this with the help of Christ who accomplished His own. And be like Apostle Paul who said:
“And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” -2 Timothy 4:8, NLT
Happy Resurrection Sunday!
