The Ascension

Key Takeaways

• The apostles had wrong expectations about the Kingdom of God, expecting it to be immediate, political, and exclusive.

• We often make similar errors in our expectations of God's kingdom.

• Jesus responds to our expectations by shepherding us, spotlighting the Father's goodness, and sending us on mission.

• The ascension of Jesus is a historical fact with significant theological implications.

• Into our paralysis, God promises us the power of the Holy Spirit and the return of Jesus.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  Reflect on a time when you had wrong expectations about God or His work in your life. How did God respond to those expectations?

• Question 2

  The sermon mentions three common errors in our expectations: immediacy, political power, and exclusivity. Which of these do you struggle with most in your spiritual life?

• Question 3

  How does Jesus' response to the apostles' question (Acts 1:7-8) challenge or encourage you in your current circumstances?

• Question 4

  Discuss the significance of Jesus' ascension. Why do you think it was important for the disciples to witness this event?

• Question 5

  Reflect on the statement: "The answer God gives you in prayer is the answer you would want if you knew the whole story." How does this perspective challenge or comfort you in your prayer life? 

• Question 6

  The sermon talks about feeling paralyzed in our spiritual lives. Have you ever felt this way? How does the promise of the Spirit’s power and Jesus’ return address this feeling?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Trusting God's Timing

READING :

Acts 1:6-8, Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

DEVOTIONAL :

Just as the apostles eagerly anticipated the immediate restoration of the Kingdom to Israel, we often find ourselves impatient for God to act in our lives. Today's reading reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. Reflect on areas in your life where you're waiting on God. How might your perspective change if you trust that the Father has "fixed" the times and seasons by His own authority? Consider how you can use this waiting period to prepare for the work God has for you, just as the apostles were instructed to wait for the Holy Spirit's power.

APPLICATION :

This week, intentionally bring one expectation or desire to God in prayer. Journal about the experience and any insights you gain.

Day 2 : The Inclusive Kingdom

READING :

Acts 1:8, Galatians 3:26-29

DEVOTIONAL :

The apostles initially expected the kingdom to be exclusive to Israel, but Jesus expanded their vision to "the ends of the earth." Today, examine your own heart. Are there people or groups you subconsciously exclude from your concept of God's kingdom? Pray for God to broaden your perspective and show you how to be a witness to His inclusive love. Consider one practical step you can take to reach out to someone different from you, embodying the expansive nature of God's kingdom.

APPLICATION :

Reflect on how you can make your faith less exclusive. Consider reaching out to someone outside your usual social circle with kindness or hospitality.

Day 3 : Power Through the Holy Spirit

READING :

Acts 1:8, Romans 8:11-17

DEVOTIONAL :

Jesus promised His followers power through the Holy Spirit. This same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us today. Reflect on areas in your life where you feel powerless or paralyzed. How might your approach to these challenges change if you truly believed in the Holy Spirit's power working within you?

APPLICATION :

Take time to invite the Holy Spirit to empower you, particularly in areas where you struggle to witness for Christ or overcome sin. Identify one specific area in your life where you feel "paralyzed." Spend time praying for the Holy Spirit's power in that situation.

Day 4 : The Ascension and Our Mission

READING :

Acts 1:9-11, Matthew 28:18-20

DEVOTIONAL :

The ascension of Jesus marks both an ending and a beginning - the end of His earthly ministry and the beginning of the church's mission. Like the apostles, we might be tempted to stand still, gazing up at the sky. But the angels' question reminds us of our purpose: to be Christ's witnesses. How are you actively participating in this mission?

APPLICATION :

Look for an opportunity to be a "witness" for Christ in your daily life, whether at work, with friends, or in your community. Identify one way you can share Christ's love in your sphere of influence today, trusting in the Holy Spirit's power to work through you.

Day 5 : Hope in Christ's Return

READING :

Acts 1:11, Revelation 21:1-5

DEVOTIONAL :

The promise of Christ's return offers hope amidst life's challenges. Just as He ascended, He will return - visibly and gloriously. This hope isn't meant to make us passive, but to inspire us to live purposefully. Reflect on how the certainty of Christ's return impacts your daily life. Does it change how you view your struggles? Your relationships? Your priorities?

APPLICATION :

Spend time in prayer, thanking God for this hope and asking Him to align your life with His eternal purposes as you await His return.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

Confession of Sin

Almighty and merciful Father, we confess that we have wandered from Your ways. Lord Jesus Christ, we have sought our own plans and focused on earthly concerns, neglecting the mission You have given us to be Your witnesses. Holy Spirit, we have followed selfish desires, failing to rely on Your power and guidance. Forgive us, Triune God, and restore us, that we may live for Your glory and proclaim Your Gospel faithfully. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38