In chapter 1 of the Book of Acts we read about the ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:9-11). For me these are some of the most hope filled words in all of scripture. The scripture says that two men appeared beside the disciples (angels/heavenly messengers) and said "why do you stand looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." The words "this same Jesus" impact my existence as a follower of Christ. I try to picture myself standing there with the disciples looking up as Jesus is taken up and away. I am filled with comfort knowing my Savior sits at the right hand of the Father and that His heavenly messengers have PROMISED that He will come back "in the same way." Jesus left in power and glory and in the same way He will come back in power and glory. His promise to come back reminds me of his promise in John 4:18 when He said "I will not leave you orphans; I will come back for you."
Here is the application: If you truly believe in Christ and His atoning work on the cross for the forgiveness of your sins, then you believe this world is not all there is. Meaning your mind should be consumed with His coming Kingdom in which He will reign as the King of Kings and fully redeem mankind to Himself. Believing that Christ will come back "in the same way" means you are able to live your life by faith and not by what you can feel and see. It means you should have complete peace with God and His sovereign rule over this universe, to include the circumstances and direction of your life. When you truly believe that Christ is coming back "in the same way" you will want to know Him in a deep intimate way while you surrender every aspect of your life to Him. You will never do another thing for God out of obligation or sense of duty, but you will begin to serve Him out of natural obedience. This is the life of a Christian, you are misunderstood often, you will be mocked and slander on occasion, but you will know you are waiting with anticipation for Christ to return "in the same way."
Seek first the kingdom of God and not your own!
Here is the application: If you truly believe in Christ and His atoning work on the cross for the forgiveness of your sins, then you believe this world is not all there is. Meaning your mind should be consumed with His coming Kingdom in which He will reign as the King of Kings and fully redeem mankind to Himself. Believing that Christ will come back "in the same way" means you are able to live your life by faith and not by what you can feel and see. It means you should have complete peace with God and His sovereign rule over this universe, to include the circumstances and direction of your life. When you truly believe that Christ is coming back "in the same way" you will want to know Him in a deep intimate way while you surrender every aspect of your life to Him. You will never do another thing for God out of obligation or sense of duty, but you will begin to serve Him out of natural obedience. This is the life of a Christian, you are misunderstood often, you will be mocked and slander on occasion, but you will know you are waiting with anticipation for Christ to return "in the same way."
Seek first the kingdom of God and not your own!
No comments:
Post a Comment