The Ascension

00:00:00 Speaker 1: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. Acts one eight. Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging your incredible promise and Acts one eight. We thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to be your witnesses to the ends of the earth. Lord, we recognize our deep need for your strength and guidance in our daily lives. Without you, we are powerless. Fill us afresh with your spirit so that we may boldly share the good news of Jesus Christ with those around us. Help us to be courageous in our faith, spreading your love and truth wherever we go. Strengthen our hearts to trust in your timing and plan even when we face challenges. Use us, Lord to bring light into the darkness and hope to the helpless. Than to be a reflection of your grace and mercy in this world. In Jesus's name, we pray, Amen. Thank you for praying with me to day. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast, remain here for our mini series on the birth of the Church. If this podcast has blessed you, we would love it if you left a review doing so makes a huge impact on our team. Lu hunched over the small tables set in the corner of the room. Parchment and inkstains littered its surface. As the sound of his stylus scratched across the papers, he peered up and out the window. His eyes were fixated on the blue expanse, but his mind was focused on his research. For months, he had been Paul's companion in adventure and ministry, but this wasn't enough. Luke. There was more to be told that he hadn't seen himself. As a result, Luke traveled from city to city, endeavoring to find eye witnesses of the ministry of Jesus and the subsequent boom of his church. And now he labored over accurately recalling the stories he had heard. He was writing a letter to Theophilus, hoping to see his faith grow. If the Great Theophilus could see what Luke saw and hear what Luke heard, then perhaps everyone in his influence would as well. Luke's background as a physician drew him to facts and a meticulous understanding of his subject, but it also stemmed from a desire to help others. His writing was no different. Each word was carefully selected. Accuracy was of the utmost importance in retelling the gospel message, if it meant that the one who read it might salvation in Jesus, who was the Christ. He read the words set before him and struck them out. 00:03:07 Speaker 2: Ah, No, that's not it. Where to start? Where to start? 00:03:14 Speaker 1: Luke wondered to himself. In his last letter to Theophilus. He had concluded on jesus ascension into heaven, but the story was far from over. 00:03:25 Speaker 2: I suppose I could start in Jerusalem, but so much happened even before then. 00:03:31 Speaker 1: He rifled through his papers, determined to piece together the most compelling narrative. He slunk back into his chair and pressed his hands firmly over his eyes. He sighed deeply, wondering if the words would ever come to him in transcribing his thoughts in his first letter. He worried that he had finally run out of words. He began to question his efforts. Would any of this matter? Would it even make a differences? And witnessing to Theophilus, let alone anyone else who might read the letter, he stared out the window again. He cleared his mind and muttered a silent prayer to himself. The gentle wind stirred the curtains as he prayed and whisped around the room. Almost instantly, Luke felt at peace, His heart slowed, and his thoughts seemed to knit themselves together apart from his efforts. He took his stylus up again, plunged the end into the inkwell, and began writing. When satisfied, he picked up the stag of parchment and read the words back to himself. 00:04:42 Speaker 2: In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven. After giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen after suffering himself to them and gave convincing proof that he was alive. He appeared to them over forty days and spoke about the Kingdom of God. 00:05:11 Speaker 1: He smiled to himself, content with the words that seem to have been given to him by the Spirit himself. Dipping his stylust back into the black ink, he leaned over the desk and carried. 00:05:24 Speaker 3: On, are you in pain after walking, running, or even just standing? It's not your feet, it's your shoes. This summer switched to Gediphi shoes with patentive Verso shock technology, which aligns your body, provides superior shock absorption and trampoline like energy return. Gediphi offers souls and styles for any activity, plus two free orthotics. Whether you're an athlete, a busy parent, or always on the go, Gediphi shoes deliver the comfort and versatility your feet grave. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to unparalleled support this summer. Enjoy a special summer offer. Visit gediphi dot com and get twenty dollars off your order of one hundred dollars or more with code Prey. Experience the miracle of ultimate comfort with g Tophi shoes. Visit g d e f y dot com today. 00:06:27 Speaker 4: Imagine this. You're at the grand finale of your favorite TV series. The hero who has been through countless trials and tribulations is about to make their final exit. As they ascend into the heavens, the screen fades to black. But wait, what happens next? How do we carry on without our hero? This is where the Book of Acts begins, with an epic finale and an even grander sequel. Welcome to the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach back again to guide you through these epic stories of faith devotion in the beginning of the Church. We will spend the next few weeks highlighting the first ten chapters of the Book of Acts. What does this have to do with Jesus, you might ask, Well, everything. This is Christ's Church, fulfilling Christ's commission by the power of Christ's spirit. You see, my friends, the church is all about Jesus. As we dive into these epic adventures, make sure to follow this podcast if you haven't done so, leave a review because we love hearing from you, and share this podcast with a friend. We start this mini series off with Jesus, who, after a dramatic forty day encore of teaching and proving his resurrection, ascends into the sky. His departure sets the stage for the continuation of his mission through us, the people his church. Acts one one through eleven serves as a prologue to a transformative journey. Luke is the author of the Book of Acts. He's a physician and a meticulous historian. Although he wasn't an eyewitness to Jesus' ministry himself, he was an eyewitness to many of the events that happened after his ascension. He writes this book to a figure named Theophilis, which means God Lover. It's as though Lucas saying for those who loved God hears how the story continues. The Gospel of Luke ends with Jesus's resurrection, as picks up with his ascension and promises this seamless transition is crucial. Without acts, we'd be left wondering how a small, beleaguered group of followers becomes the global church movement that we know today. Jesus's ascension isn't merely a celestial exit. It's the beginning of a new era. The ascension witnessed by his disciples is a significant shift from his earthly ministry to his ongoing work through the Holy Spirit, and this transition holds vital lessons for us today. Let's dive into the story now and be swept away. In the beginning of the birth of the Church. 00:08:58 Speaker 1: Jesus sat on a stone near the base of the Mount of Olives. The disciples were seated around him, unfolded claws on their laps, and bread and dried fruit topped off their plates. 00:09:12 Speaker 5: Peter, would you pass me some of the olives. Ever since my resurrection, I just can't seem to get enough of them. 00:09:17 Speaker 1: Peter passed a small ball to Jesus, forcing a smile as he did so. Even after forty days, the reality that Jesus had risen from the dead was still fresh from the disciples. For some of them, it would have been nearly unbelievable if they hadn't touched the very wounds of Jesus with their own hands. The day of jesus death was the darkest in history as they scattered into hiding. But three days later he had proven that not even death could hold the Son of Man, and that the enemy's schemes were no match for the perfect plan of the But rather than returning with trumpets, fires, or earthquakes, Jesus walked with them, ate with them, and taught them just as he always had. On the surface, they felt like nothing had changed, Yet there was something distinctly different now. An unseen aura radiated from Jesus that let them know in their souls that nothing would ever be the same. The group ate in relative silence. The air was unusually still and only helped to amplify the silence of their meal. Each day came with unspoken curiosities about Jesus's plan on this side of the grave. However, not wanting to seem doubtful of jesus mission, none of them dared to ask him to share more than what he did on his own accord. Peter was the most concerned about coming off as an opponent to Jesus. With a twinge of pain in his heart, he remembered how Jesus had called him satan for rebuking jesus revelation of his death, and again he cringed as he remembered denying the Lord three times in his most desperate hour. Peter closed his eyes softly and took a breath. In these moments of condemnation, he knew that Jesus's love was the only hope of finding forgiveness within himself. He reminded himself of Jesus's words immediately after his resurrection. Three times Jesus questioned Peter's affection for him, and three times Peter affirmed with his heart that he loved the Lord. Despite his failures, Jesus had restored him, and he knew with full assurance that nothing could take that away. Peter sat up straight and turned to Jesus. He spoke firmly but kindly. 00:12:05 Speaker 2: Lord, at the risk of spoiling our happy little lunch, can I just say what we're all thinking. 00:12:12 Speaker 5: It's never stopped you before? 00:12:14 Speaker 2: Well, it's it's jist. Now that you're back, when will we start the next phase of your plan? I mean no offense, but surely sitting here to eat lunch with us isn't why you rose from the dead. 00:12:29 Speaker 5: I take no offense to your words, though I don't believe the offense was mine to take. 00:12:34 Speaker 1: Jesus winked at the disciples as he said this, but. 00:12:37 Speaker 5: You are right. Much more must be accomplished in order to see the will of the Father fulfilled. 00:12:43 Speaker 2: Mumm, Does that mean we will be leaving Jerusalem soon? 00:12:47 Speaker 1: We won't be. 00:12:49 Speaker 2: Is that to say you won't be staying with us? 00:12:53 Speaker 1: Jesus eyes were full of deep love for the Disciples. During their years together, he had always been mindful of their struggles to understand what he was doing. Compassion had always motivated him to lead the Disciples through each new challenge, but he knew the following words would start their most significant challenge in. 00:13:17 Speaker 5: A certain way. Yes, I won't be staying with you, but in a great way. You must know by now that I will never truly leave you. 00:13:26 Speaker 1: The disciples took great comfort in his words, even if they didn't fully comprehend what he meant. By the apparent paradox in what he was saying. 00:13:35 Speaker 2: What should we do? Where should we go? 00:13:39 Speaker 1: Peter was eager to do all that Jesus commanded him. The hunger to lead was quickly revitalizing itself in Peter's veins. He envisioned what being the rock meant in this new paradigm of jesus resurrection. He felt pride beginning to grow small roots, and quickly reminded himself of Jesus words on the beach, feed my sheep. He couldn't take any credit for what God had done through him up to this point, just as much as he couldn't blame him for his missteps and failures. He knew there was nothing he could do in his own power. Though learning that lesson had come with difficulty, Peter now found it comforting. He knew Jesus would sustain him and the rest of the disciples through whatever lay ahead. 00:14:34 Speaker 5: Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father has promised, he who I spoke of before my betrayal. You will have much to do, but none can be done without him. 00:14:49 Speaker 6: Without him, are you not the one who will lead us on our mission? 00:14:53 Speaker 1: Jesus smiled graciously at Andrew. The disciples would always have questions, and Jesus knew the answer he was about to give would be better than anything else he could offer them in this next season. 00:15:07 Speaker 5: I have shared many lessons with you regarding my spirit. It is he who empowered me during my time with you. Think back to when we first met, Andrew. Do you remember that day? 00:15:18 Speaker 6: Of course, Lord, it was after your baptism, and what a glorious time that was. What I wouldn't have given to be there when the heavens opened up. I can't imagine any of the stories I've heard do it justice. 00:15:31 Speaker 5: I can assure you the stories have more power for you than you know, and they will continue to embolden my people. But beyond the stories, there's something, or should I say, someone who will give you even greater strength and an everlasting hope. Believe it or not, I meant it when I said it would be better if I left. In many ways, I will still be with you. 00:15:59 Speaker 1: The disciples mar at Jesus words. They leaned forward, their hearts began to race. Could anything really be better if Jesus left? He had been their teacher regarding all things about God and his Kingdom, their pillar of strength through persecution, their strong tower in times of trouble, and their peace and the storms of anxiety, doubt, and fear. 00:16:29 Speaker 5: In the early days of my ministry, John baptized a baptism of repentance with water. But just as I was baptized in the Spirit, I now share that gift with you. In a few days, you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. It is with Him that you will do more wondrous works than I. 00:16:51 Speaker 1: There was a deafening silence as this revolutionary news danced around their minds, delving into their hearts. Surely, the Spirit had been with them this whole time, but it was evident that this baptism of the Spirit held an even greater significance than just his presence with them. Jesus spoke of intimacy with the Spirit. This was the beginning of something new and unheard of. The baptism of the Spirit was more than just a new mission. It was the beginning of new fresh life. They wondered if they were ready for everything it entailed. With each word Jesus shared, it was as though scales were falling from their eyes and they could see the world more clearly in the light of the Father's perfect plan unfolding before them. Their musings bubbled over with a plea to know what Jesus would do next. 00:17:55 Speaker 2: Lord, Is it finally time? Are you going to restore order the kingdom to Israel? 00:18:01 Speaker 5: I shared this with you and the sons of Thunder on the mountain at my transfiguration, but for the benefit of the others here I'll say it again. I'm sure it's hard to accept, but it is not for you to know the times, what the dates the Father has set by his authority. Of course, this is no mark against you, but my Father works in mysterious ways that no human could ever comprehend. 00:18:28 Speaker 1: At this, the disciple shoulder slumped over so slightly. Any time a question of timing was posted to Jesus, obscurity was always involved, and time seemed to be an enigma when it came to jesus plans. They did their best to fight the confusion and stay focused on their faith. 00:18:49 Speaker 5: But do not worry. There is good news to be had while waiting. You are to stay here in Jerusalem, where you will receive power, a power unlike any you've ever seen before. Kings could only wish for authority like this. 00:19:06 Speaker 1: And just like that, Jesus had pulverized their doubts and laid the foundation for courage. Again, like a master craftsman, he chiseled away at their hearts precisely and patiently. 00:19:22 Speaker 5: The Holy Spirit will descend upon you, filling you with unimaginable power. 00:19:28 Speaker 1: Their eyes sparkled in amazement at the very thought. 00:19:32 Speaker 6: Remember his purpose. 00:19:34 Speaker 5: He comes to testify of me, and when he empowers you, you too will be my witnesses. 00:19:40 Speaker 6: And are we to stay here in Jerusalem? How will we know what to do. 00:19:45 Speaker 5: When all this has come to pass, Yes, Hendrew, there will be work to do here in Jerusalem. I know I've stirred the part quite a bit, but Jerusalem is only the start. The Helper will direct your steps, and it's time you, my witnesses, in Jerusalem beyond to Judea and Sumeria and the ends of the earth. The Spirit would bring forth my gospel message with unstoppable. 00:20:12 Speaker 1: Force like a garden in heavy rain after a drought. The disciples vigorously soaked up every word Jesus shared. Following Jesus had become natural to them over the years, yet everything he said spoke of the supernatural, a mission beyond themselves, and a life that would lead the world with unprecedented hope and transformation. Sweat ripped from their brows, but it was hard to tell if it was from the heat of the glaring sun or the welling up of anticipation for the arrival of the Advocate. Each man who stood before Jesus knew this promised gift would start a cat aclysmic chain of events spreading across the world. The clouds gently sailed through the skies before anchoring themselves directly overhead, dampening the sunlight. Jesus peered up and let out a sigh, But this was not a sigh of dejection or weariness. This was the exhale of one catching their breath after a job well done. Though he came from eternity, the humanity in him felt the sorrow of saying goodbye. He lifted his arms and smiled, addressing them one final time, my friends, to. 00:21:42 Speaker 5: Say our time together was short. Would be an understatement. Each of you has grown tremendously, and I'm oh so very proud of you. 00:21:50 Speaker 1: The disciples knew the tone of Jesus's voice. They were no strangers to parting words, leaving their family and friends regularly to travel with Jesus. They could feel an imminent goodbye coming as the heavy weight of sadness pressed on their hearts like a millstone. Tears sat in the corner of their eyes. As a whirlwind of mourning and joy intermingled in their souls, all they could do was listen with trepidation. Before they could ready themselves for the inevitable, Jesus bid them farewell. 00:22:30 Speaker 5: Goodbye for now, my good and faithful servants, do not fear, for I would be with you. 00:22:37 Speaker 1: Before their eyes, Jesus began to levitate off the ground like an invisible army of angels. Hoisted in the air. The disciples felt a strong gust of wind to push them back, leaving them in a state of tumult. The wind had no discernible origin, but was sweeping from the ground towards the heavens. It cast rocks ricocheting against one another, and bent back crackling boughs of nearby trees. The blend of sounds was like a natural aria of stones and flora, crying out Creation itself was praising its creator. The disciples eyes never left Jesus during his ascent. The further away he got from them, the nearer they subconsciously drew towards one another in solidarity. The clouds began to shift once more, as though Heaven was constructing a door to welcome the King home. Time seemed to be irrelevant. No man could say whether seconds or hours had passed, nor did they dare look away, afraid they might miss a magnificent celestial event above. Out of nowhere, two men of great stature stood to the left of the disciples. Their attire was the first sign that these men were not of any earthly community. Their robes were woven of immaculate white linen, then sparkled in the light like polished. 00:24:20 Speaker 7: Granite men of Galilee. 00:24:23 Speaker 1: The disciples were aghast and jumped back. Their heads swiveled around to find the booming voice that drew their attention from the miracle they witnessed. What they saw stunned them. Two large men had drawn only a few paces away without so much as a sound. Surely they would have heard them approaching, but their sudden appearance indicated that they likely hadn't walked to greet the disciples. 00:24:53 Speaker 7: Why do you stand here looking into the sky. The same Jesus who has been taken from you into will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven. 00:25:06 Speaker 1: The disciples quickly bounced their eyes toward one another before darting them back to the skies, and in a blink of an eye, the clouds krem together like waves breaking against a promontory. The disciples were left with more questions than answers, but more importantly, they were left with a promise that would be the key to unlocking the mystery of God's plan to spread the Gospel message to the ends of the earth. They knew this was the definitive end to the first chapter of their ministry, but it certainly wasn't the end of the story. 00:25:53 Speaker 4: Jesus's final instructions to his disciples were to wait. This might sound like a simple requests packed with significance. We all know that waiting's hard, and we have to understand this. Waiting isn't passive. It's an active preparation for what's to come. You know, I used to wait tables back in the day, and waiting tables was anything but passive. We were constantly on the move, constantly taking orders, and constantly serving the people around us. You see, that's kind of what waiting on the Lord is like. Waiting on the Lord is serving. It's serving the people around you, it's serving him, it's serving his purposes and his kingdom. The Disciples were not to sit idly by, but to anticipate the promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit. Jesus Is directive underscores that sometimes the most profound work in our lives and ministries happens in the waiting. It's in these moments that we align our hearts with God's timing and prepare ourselves for the next chapter. Jesus promises the disciples that they will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. This is more than a mere upgrade from John's baptism of water. It's a complete immersion in divine power. Jesus acknowledges that the task ahead, the mission to witness to the ends of the earth, cannot be accomplished through human strength alone. It requires the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus has been talking about the Holy Spirit a lot up until now, but this concept of the Holy Spirit is very abstract to the disciples. But as we go through our series now, we're going to find out that the Holy Spirit is dynamic, present and practical. This promise wasn't just for the early Church. It's a continual promise for every believer, you and I who would testify to the name of Jesus. If to glorify Jesus relied on the Holy Spirit, how much more do we need his empowering presence in our lives. Jesus's command to be witnesses to the end of the earth reveals the expansive nature of the mission. The Gospel is not confined by geography, ethnicity, or social status. It's meant for everyone. The disciples might have felt overwhelmed by this mandate, considering their limited resources in the hostile environment that they were going to be minister to. Yet Jesus's words assure them that their mission is not dependent on their abilities, but on the power of the Holy Spirit. The Gospel spread from Jerusalem to Judaeus and Maria, and the ends of the Earth becomes a guiding framework for the book of acts and a reminder of our global mission here and now and today. Yet the disciples waiting period was essential for their preparation. Similarly, in our own lives, periods of waiting, whether for a new job or relationship, or spiritual growth, are not void of purpose. Use these times to deepen your relationship with God, seek his guidance, and prepare for the next steps He has for you. Remember, waiting often is a precursor to great things. Just as the disciples were to wait for the Holy Spirit, we too should seek His presence and power in our lives in the waiting. It's easy to rely on our own strength and resources for things, but true effectiveness in the Kingdom of God requires the Spirit's empowerment. I want you to think about it this way. Whence the last time that you dreamed for something that was only big enough if God showed up, and if God used his spirit to empower you and move things around you? Have we been praying small prayers? 00:29:13 Speaker 2: You see? 00:29:13 Speaker 4: The Disciples had a big task ahead of them, and the big task required big power. We, as disciples of Jesus today, ought to follow suit of these disciples who sought Jesus eagerly and knew that only by His strength would they accomplished the things ahead. As we reflect on Acts one one through eleven, let's remember that the ascension of Jesus is not just a historical event, but a call to action. It's a remember to wait with expectation, seek the Holy Spirit's power, expand our vision for the Gospel, and live with the assurance of Christ's return. In this grand narrative, we're not passive observers, but active participants and the unfolding story of God's kingdom. So let's step into our role with faith, courage, and anticipation, knowing that the same Jesus who ascended will return. But in the meantime, as we wait for his return, we are going to be witnesses to the ends of the earth. I'm so happy to be back with you as we go through the Jesus Podcast. In our next episode, we're going to follow Peter, James, John, and all the Disciples as they figure out what's next. Have you ever been a Have you ever been in a time of uncertainty, not really knowing what's ahead. The Disciples certainly know that feeling