Christ Ascended Seated (Video)
Mack Tomlinson teaches that Christ's ascension and session at the right hand of God signify the completion and ongoing application of redemption, affirming His sovereign reign and intercession for believers.
This sermon focuses on the ascension and enthronement of Jesus Christ, highlighting the significance of His work beyond the cross and resurrection. It delves into the biblical accounts of Christ's ascension in Mark 16 and Luke 24, emphasizing His exaltation and session at the right hand of God. The sermon explores the theological implications of Christ's ascension and enthronement, portraying Him as the ruling King who governs the universe and intercedes for believers. It concludes with a powerful illustration of a nobleman offering to pay off people's debts, paralleling it to Christ's offer of forgiveness and salvation to all who believe.
Sermon Outline
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I. Introduction to Ascension and Session
- Reference to Charles Wesley's hymn and Hebrews 1:3
- Explanation of Christ's ascension and seating at God's right hand
- Importance of these events beyond the resurrection
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II. Biblical Accounts of Ascension
- Mark 16:19 and Luke 24:50-51 describe the ascension
- Only Mark and Luke record the ascension explicitly
- Acts 1 describes the disciples' witness and Jesus' final instructions
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III. Theological Significance of Ascension and Session
- Christ as the God-man ascends and carries humanity to heaven
- Session signifies completion of redemptive work
- Christ's ongoing reign and intercession from heaven
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IV. Practical Implications for Believers
- Believers will ascend with Christ and reign with Him
- Christ's reign assures forgiveness and eternal life
- The ascension and session encourage worship and confidence
Key Quotes
“Christ ascended and seated. And I want you to think about it. Have you ever heard a message or a sermon? Have you ever heard about the reality of Christ ascending back to heaven and being seated or being enthroned?” — Mack Tomlinson
“The ascension and session and enthronement of Jesus Christ in heaven was the inauguration day. He's in office. The judge is in the courtroom. He's on the bench. The court is in session.” — Mack Tomlinson
“Because He ascended that day and reigns forever, you as a Christian, if you know Christ, you will ascend to Heaven with Him either at your death or at His second coming.” — Mack Tomlinson
Application Points
- Trust in Christ's ongoing reign and intercession as assurance of your salvation.
- Live with the hope and confidence that you will one day ascend and reign with Christ.
- Recognize the importance of the Holy Spirit's empowerment sent by the ascended Christ for witnessing.