Bible Study - CHRIST (7) - Ascended like No Other - Acts 1:1-11 - April 12, 2015

Bible Study – CHRIST (7) – Ascended like No Other – April 12, 2015

This is lesson seven (7) in our series entitled, “Like No Other: The Life of CHRIST.”

Our focus scripture is Acts 1:1-11.

JESUS ascended to heaven but HE did not leave us alone. JESUS ascended back into Heaven and took HIS seat at the right hand of GOD, HIS Father. The Father would, at HIS choosing, send the Holy Spirit to indwell (Or settle upon) all who place their faith in CHRIST as a security deposit or down payment. The Holy Spirit would teach, enlighten, reveal, lead, guide, empower and manifest Spiritual gifts to all who place their faith in CHRIST for the purpose of obedient ministering.

A note regarding the authorship of the books we know as Luke and Acts. The early manuscripts of these writings do not indentify an author but very early church tradition attribute authorship to Doctor Luke, the physician and often traveling companion of the Apostle Paul.

The book of Acts gives us some of the history of the early Christian church and movement. I have to trust the early Christians in identifying Doctor Luke as the human author of Luke and Acts as inspired by the Holy Spirit. It is believed that Luke was a Gentile and the only non-Jewish writer of the New Testament.

Let’s read Luke 1:1-4: (Luke indentifies the scope of his first narrative.)

1 Many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed them down to us. 3 It also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in an orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.

Doctor Luke was commissioned by Theophilus to investigate and write about this person called JESUS thus the books of Luke and Acts. Acts focuses upon the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell all who place their faith in CHRIST as manifested in the physical and Spiritual growth of the early Christian church and its members.

Doctor Luke recorded the acts of the Apostles as empowered, lead and guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Luke identifies the scope of his second piece of work as recorded in Acts 1:1-2:

1 I wrote the first narrative (Luke), Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day He was taken up, after He had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen. 3 After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during 40 days and speaking about the kingdom of God.

Doctor Luke recorded in Luke Chapter 24 the events of JESUS after HIS resurrection up to HIS ascension. Acts picks up with HIS 40 days upon earth and leads us to the ascension of JESUS, the coming of the Holy Spirit and beyond.

Let’s read Acts 1:3:

3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.

When we study the things that JESUS did after HIS resurrection, we discover some of the attributes of HIS Glorified body: (Luke 24 and John 20 and 21 covers much the 40 days after the resurrection of JESUS)

-         HE could be recognized as JESUS or remain unknown to others until HE revealed HIS identify.

-         HE could appear and disappear.

-         HE could walk through physical barriers, such as a door or open the door as other people.

-         HE could eat normal food.

-         HE had total control over HIS glorified body, which gives Christians an idea of what their Glorified bodies will be like after the second coming of CHRIST.

-         HE knew where certain people would be.

JESUS was alive and during HIS 40 days upon earth after HIS resurrection, HE demonstrated that HE was alive to over 500 people and most especially to HIS disciples.

The statement “after HE had suffered” or “after HIS passion” draws our attention to the word “suffered.” Suffered has its roots in “pascho” which forms the basis for our English word “paschal” which gives the idea of JESUS being the Paschal Lamb. In turn, this carries the idea of “experiencing something bad or evil brought on to the person or object from the outside, not self-induced. We see, then, the clear reference to JESUS’ sinless, guiltless suffering for our sins that resulted in HIS death on the cross.” (Reference: Rev. Curtis Honts, “Advanced Bible Study Commentary” published by LifeWay, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, page 68.)

Thus - 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

JESUS was dead but GOD raised HIM from the dead as a living person as proof that HE conquered both sin and its consequence, death. The resurrection is a guarantee of every Christian’s resurrection and having a Glorified body. To prove that JESUS was alive, HE did many convincing proofs or unquestionable proofs that HE was alive.

Luke used the word “appearing” which carries the idea of appearing and then disappearing during those 40 days. JESUS instructed them about the Kingdom of GOD. It seems the disciples and others who knew HIM could not shake the idea that JESUS was going to be an earthly ruler, such as King of Israel, at this time in history. Later of course, HE will rule the world.

JESUS was preparing those who were called to continue spreading the Gospel of CHRIST for HIS departure, because HE is and always will be the only true Son of GOD. HE came to the earth in the flesh, lived a sinless life, was tempted in all ways as humans are tempted, yet without sin, and gave HIS sinless life to pay for the original sin of the first Adam. Because of sin, the first Adam brought the death sentence upon mankind. The second Adam, JESUS, brought eternal life to all who will place their faith in HIM.

JESUS was intent on HIS disciples and others to understand what had happened. HE was dead as a door nail but GOD raised HIM from the dead. Now HE had HIS new Glorified body which could do human things as well as Spiritual things. JESUS equipped HIS disciple as well as HE could before HIS departure but there was yet a special event to take place that would help bring understanding to something appearing so complex.

The Apostle Paul recorded a brief summary in 1 Corinthians 15:3-7:

3 For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to • Cephas, then to the Twelve. 6 Then He appeared to over 500 brothers at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen • asleep. 7 Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one abnormally born, He also appeared to me.

JESUS needed to teach, equip and assure HIS disciples and other faithful Christians that HE died, was buried and GOD resurrected HIM from the dead, not as a ghost, but in a new bodily form that was the same yet profoundly different from the normal human body. HE had a Glorified body that is eternal and subject to HIS command. HIS new body is like the new Glorified body all Christians will receive at the second coming of JESUS.

So why do we have to wait in Heaven in our Spiritual body until JESUS returns before we will receive our Glorified body? If you had a Glorified body that could do all the things that JESUS’ Glorified body could do and you could bebop in and out of earth to reveal yourself to your loved ones, would you? If a loved one was headed in the wrong direction would you be tempted to intervene? Or would want to assure loved ones that heaven is for real and what a spectacular place it is? Would you be tempted to reveal it? All humans are exposed to the same opportunities for salvation. Each person must choose to either accept or reject JESUS as his or her Savior. There are no short cuts. GOD has a plan and purpose for each one of us as HIS born-again children. But it is up to each of us either to accept or reject JESUS as our Savior and then whether or not to make HIM LORD of our lives.

Let’s read Acts 1:4-8:

4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

The Ascension

6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

JESUS had been with them for these 40 days teaching them. The fact that HE asked them not to depart Jerusalem gives the idea that they may have been leaving Jerusalem to go to Bethany or some place outside Jerusalem to spent the night or some of their time. Jesus admonished them to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit had come upon them. When the Holy Spirit came upon them they received power to accomplish the will and purpose of GOD.

Each Christian receives the Holy Spirit the instant he or she asks JESUS to forgive him or her for his or her sins and to come into his or her heart. JESUS had told them about this event earlier “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

Notice that JESUS was not specific as to when this event would take place. No Christian will know exactly when JESUS will return to earth for the second time. Only the Father knows. The idea is that Christians are to obediently work and remain ready for that event.

If those in the sound of HIS voice were obedient, that is remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit came, they would receive an anointing, if not, they would miss it. With GOD, timing is very important. Today is the day of salvation. Don’t put it off. That is not to frighten but it is a fact because eternity is just a heartbeat away. [To study more about the teachings of JESUS in preparing HIS disciples for HIS departure after HIS resurrection regarding the coming of the Holy Spirit read John 14:15-26 and 16:5-15.]

“They asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” The idea here is that they didn’t just ask HIM once or twice but they kept asking HIM over and over before they received an answer to the question “Will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel.” They still had visions of an earthly kingdom because in the Old Testament, the use of the phrase “outpouring of the Spirit of GOD” carried the idea of restoring Israel. So it was natural for JESUS’ disciples to dwell on JESUS establishing a physical kingdom.

Once we make up our minds to something it is hard for us to consider alternatives. JESUS knew HE had to prepare HIS disciples and others called to spread the Gospel of CHRIST to embrace truth, which would come together after HE ascended into Heaven and the Holy Spirit came upon all who place their faith in CHRIST.

“He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.” Again, JESUS’ response is direct without a timeline. Christians should not dwell on when certain times and when certain events are going to take place. They are to be obedient to their calling to the ministry GOD has given them. Just take matters a day at the time and trust.

But JESUS gave them vital information “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” GOD calls Christians to what often appears to be daunting tasks but HE equips us to do the job. We all have many questions but as we move in the direction GOD has called us to, HE equips and reveals. As we take a step it often opens up the opportunity to take the next step.

Often, we have to grow and mature Spiritually before we can comprehend some Spiritual matters or develop enough trust to take a step of faith. But GOD knows each of us intimately, even to the number of hairs upon our heads. When HE calls, HE equips and it may take years. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians and HE does not create junk. Our time upon earth is not the issue but it is our perfection by the Master's Hands.

Many Christians think the Holy Spirit was for that specific time but the Holy Spirit is just as relevant and powerful today as then. When we have an intimate, personal relationship with CHRIST, then we can witness the things HE has revealed to us as we have walked with HIM. It is an awesome lifetime journey.

Let’s read Acts 1:9-11:

9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

There comes a time when the disciples and those who have taken up the cross of JESUS must graduate. JESUS ascended into heaven, out of sight. They witnessed this event with their own two eyes and heard what the angels had to say with their ears.

JESUS was physically gone but HE would be more intimate and present with all who place their faith in HIM through the indwelling Holy Spirit. As we walk with HIM, we build trust with HIM and respond as HE leads and guides us through the promptings of the Holy Spirit. We are witnesses to what we experience as we journey with CHRIST as revealed to us and experienced by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Being martyred is witness to a person’s faith in CHRIST.

As JESUS ascended two angels descended with a message “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

There comes a time when Christians must stop gazing and take action. JESUS told them that they would be equipped for the tasks to be revealed to them. So what did they do as we read our next scripture?

Acts 1:12-14:

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called the Mount of Olives, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away.

13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James.

14 All these were continually united in prayer, along with the women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.

JESUS’ disciples, the women which included the mother of JESUS and guess who; HIS brothers. The very brothers who did not believe in HIM as recorded in John 7:2-3:

2 The Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, 3 so His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea so Your disciples can see Your works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he’s seeking public recognition. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 (For not even His brothers believed in Him.)

I asked the question in last week’s lesson, “Why did the angel and JESUS instruct HIS disciples and the women to go to Galilee?” That was JESUS’ home area and HE had unfinished work that needed to be done after HIS resurrection. HE needed to prove to HIS disciples, family, friends, those who saw HIM grow up, that HE died and was resurrected as proof that HE was and still is the true SON OF GOD.

Do you believe that JESUS came in the flesh? Is HE the only Son of GOD? Have you placed your faith in HIM?  If not, now is the time. Ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and for HIM to come into your life. HE loved you so much that HE gave HIS life for you. GOD raised HIM from the dead as proof that HE conquered both sin and death. Christians serve a risen Savior. The grave is empty!

As promised and as recorded in Acts Chapter 2, the Holy Spirit was manifested visually, as tongues of fire, audible, as a violent rushing wind and Spiritually as evidenced by converts speaking in other known languages as the Holy Spirit came upon those who accepted CHRIST as their Savior at Pentecost. The Apostle Peter preached and 3,000 people (Acts 2:41) became Christians and later their numbers had grown to about 5,000 (Acts 4:4).

If Christians are serious about being obedient to serving CHRIST, they must not be afraid of the Holy Spirit leading, guiding, directing and empowering their lives. I know, I fought it for many years but one day I basically said “LORD here I am as I am, my good and bad I give to You and ask that You take my life and help me to live the Christian life.” It was a profound and pivotal instant in my life. Has everything since that moment just been easy sailing? Not by a long shot but it has been a journey of discovery and building an intimate, personal relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Blessings!!!