Resurrection and Ascension
The doctrinal significance of the bodily resurrection of Christ is of utmost importance, because without it there is no forgiveness of sin, no salvation, and no hope of eternal life.
Read 1 Corinthians 15:16–18. How closely does Paul link atonement with the resurrection of Jesus?
The death of Christ would not have had any atoning or forgiving power had it not been followed by the resurrection of the Lord. Consequently we should not restrict the atoning work of Christ to a single event within God’s plan of salvation. The Cross and the resurrection are two parts of one inseparable work of redemption.
How would you explain the close connection between the resurrection, the ascension, and Christ’s work of intercession? 1 Pet. 3:21, 22; Rom. 8:34–39. 
Jesus took to heaven our glorified human nature, thus opening the portals of heaven to the human race. His resurrection and ascension mean, first, that He finished the work He came to do on earth (John 17:4, 5; 19:30). Second, through His resurrection and ascension, Christ permanently united to God those who will put their faith in His sacrificial death. No power in the universe could separate them from God. Since Christ removed the barrier of sin, God’s love constantly and eternally will flow to His people. Third, the ascension of Christ also testifies that His defeat of evil powers on the cross was final. After His ascension, He was enthroned as coregent with God, sitting at His right hand, “with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him” (1 Pet. 3:22, NIV; see also Heb. 10:12, 13). He will remain with the Father until His enemies are subjected to Him. Then He will return to save those who are waiting for Him (Heb. 9:28), thus consummating His work of salvation (Phil. 2:10, 11; Rev. 17:14).
| What hope does Christ’s resurrection from the dead offer you? That is, in what ways does His resurrection guarantee that death does not have to be your final end? If it is, who can you blame but yourself? Why not make the choices now that can spare you from the biggest mistake you could ever make? |
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