May 13

PART IV.—Acts 1:9.

THE ascension of Jesus had been predicted in many of the Psalms of David, and by Daniel, as well also, by the Redeemer himself. Having seen the glorious event realised, let us now consider THE GREAT END and DESIGN OF THAT ASCENSION. Jesus ascended that he might carry on his mediatorial work in heaven. He had finished all his engagements on earth, but now he had to appear in the holiest place, and sprinkle the throne of the eternal with his sacrificial blood, that it might be the sinners true mercy-seat, unto which we might appear with boldness of access, and obtain pardon and acceptance with God. Before that throne too, Jesus ever stands as the intercessor of his church, and the perpetual advocate of his people. Jesus ascended as the Triumphant Conqueror over all his enemies. He had been engaged in severe combat with the combined powers of earth and hell. Earth he had redeemed by his precious blood, and death and hell he had overcome by his glorious resurrection. Now therefore as the Bozrah conqueror, travelling in the greatness of his strength, and mighty to save, he returns to his native kingdom and glory. He ascended that he might send down the Holy Ghost, and to communicate all the blessings of his grace. Hence his ascension has caused the heavens to drop as with fatness, and earth has received in copious showers the effusions of his love and grace. Him hath God highly exalted, to be a Prince and a Saviour to give repentance unto Israel and the remission of sins. He ascended that he might exercise his rightful dominion over all worlds. Now he must reign until he hath put all enemies under his feet. As king of Zion, he rules in his church, and will do so until all his foes are confounded, and the earth resound with the music of his name, from the rising to the setting of the sun. Finally, Christ hath ascended, that he might receive the spirits of his people unto himself. He gives an abundant admission to his people into heaven, and places upon the heads of his saints, the crown of glory that fadeth not away. Let us never forget the exalted Saviour, — let our affections constantly ascend to him, — let us treadin his footsteps, that we may be sharers of his glory. And when we die, that we may believingly be enabled to commend our souls into his hands -- and say, "Lord Jesus receive our spirits."