Acts 1:4–11 | Christ's Ascension and our Mission

First Irving Sermons

Framing Question: What is the plan that Christ has for the church, and why is the ascension important to the plan? The ascension. Is a significant part of the ministry of Jesus Christ and the plan for the church. He gives gifts to men that he might fill all things (Eph 4:8–10) We have an interceding High Priest, who has passed through the heavens (Heb 4:14–16) We have a King who has full authority, and all things are subject to him (angels, authorities, powers) (1 Pet 3:22) We have an Advocate before the Father- Jesus Christ the Righteous (1 Jn 2:1; Rom 8:34) We are citizens of heaven, our lives are hidden with Christ in God who is in heaven (Col:2–3) Jesus sends the Advocate- the Holy Spirit to empower his church (Jn 14:6; 16:7; Lk 24:49). Man now sits enthroned in heaven, whom God has granted all authority (Gen 1:28; Matt 28:18; Eph 1:21–23). Main Idea. After Jesus’ ascension, his ministry continues through the church, by the Holy Spirit, to the ends of the earth. Driving Question. How is the ministry of Christ continued? King Jesus Provides Us The Message to Proclaim (vv. 4–8) The Gospel King Jesus Provides The Means to Empower Us (vv. 4–5, 8) The Holy Spirit Apply: Pray for a fresh work of the Spirit. King Jesus Provides Us The Mission to Obey Before He Returns (vv. 9–11) The Great Commission Takeaways. Christ is with you. Repent of complacency and trust the Spirit to help. Commit to letting the Book of Acts change our view of the church. Pray. Be active in the Great Commission.