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Introduction
After His resurrection, Jesus remained on this earth for forty days before His ascension (Acts
1:3). The Bible mentions forty days on many occasions, here are a few.
In Noah's day it rained for 40 days and nights (Genesis 7:4).
Moses was on Mt. Sinai for 40 days (Exodus 24:18).
The twelve spies searched the promised land for 40 days (Numbers 13:25).
Elijah went on the strength of food from an angel for 40 days (1 Kings 19:8).
Jesus fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2).
Facts About the Ascension
The ascension is a miracle because it defied the natural laws of nature.
Like all miracles, it is embraced only by faith in the power of God.
This miracle of ascension was divinely tied to future miracles.
It was foretold by the Psalmist (Psalm 68:17-18).
Paul repeated that prophecy to show its fulfillment (Ephesians 4:4-8).
Jesus spoke of it in the future tense (John 14:1-3).
Conclusion
The ascension is referred to as: taken up, received up, carried up. While none of the disciples
saw Jesus rise from the dead in His resurrection, all but Judas saw His ascension (Acts 1:6-
11).
Natural laws of nature had to be altered or suspended for a brief time. That is no problem to the
God Who created the law of gravity that holds us on the earth's surface. We must remember that
with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:23-26). His sovereign power was demonstrated
when He created the world (John 1:1-3).
The ascension is tied to future miracles. For example, when Jesus returns the same laws will be
altered again. If He had power to ascend into heaven, His power will also bring Jesus back when
He returns. We must also recognize that the same laws which were altered in the ascension of
Jesus, will be altered for us when we are resurrected and ascend. At our ascension we will be
caught up with Him in the clouds and carried home to heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
May the reality of His ascension bring joy to us as it did to His disciples (Luke 24:51-53).
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