Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because it demonstrated that Jesus’ mission was complete, he intercedes for us before the Father, and he will return the same way he left.
Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because it demonstrated that Jesus’ mission was complete
And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God. (ESV, Luke 24:50-53
For most Christians, the birth, death on a cross, and resurrection of Jesus gets top billing. After all, that was his mission. And the heart of the gospel. But the ascension of Jesus is important too. Why? Because it’s an exclamation point. The declaration that his mission was fully and successfully complete. An announcement that the path for a renewed relationship with God is now open through Jesus Christ.
The ascension was a dramatic event that occurred 40 days after the resurrection. And during that time Jesus appeared to his disciples several times and to over 500 other eye witnesses. He continued teaching them the significance of what he had just accomplished. And then, after final instructions on their mission Jesus ascended to heaven in a dramatic exit.
He was taken up in bodily form demonstrating his resurrection as a physical human and not an ethereal spirit. And it signifies that as followers of Jesus, our victory over death is also bodily.
Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because he now intercedes for us before the Father
Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (ESV, Romans 8:24)
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (ESV, Hebrews 4:15)
Christianity is unique among all world religions. For not only does it present a God that love us. But He cared enough to enter our human condition through his Son, Jesus Christ. And He knows us, not just as His creation, but as one who experienced human life as one of us.
So, He understands our hopes. Dreams. Fears. And most of all, our plight against sin.
He was tempted too, but didn’t sin. And yet, rather than condemn us, he intercedes for us before the Father.
One day Jesus will return the same way he left.
But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. (ESV. Matthew 24:36)
Jesus promised a return the same way he left–visibly in the air. And while he predicted signs that would precede an imminent return, his appearance would still surprise everyone.
There are different viewpoints on the unfolding and order of events. But they all agree Jesus will return. And it will mark the end of his spiritual kingdom and the beginning of his physical, earthly kingdom.
Therefore, Christ-followers should remain vigilant as we eagerly anticipate his return with confident hope.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Three pillars of Biblical Grace are critical supports for this important concept of Christian faith. And you must embrace them to appreciate its full transforming power. Let’s examine them.
Three pillars of Biblical Grace. The corruption of sin.
Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned. (ESV, Romans 5:12)
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, that disobedience was sin And it corrupted their unspoiled human nature. Since then, this sinful corruption has spread and infected the entire human population.
Although many people do not see themselves as a sinner.
In fact, you seldom hear “sin” used in secular culture. It’s simply a church word for religious people. Sure. Most people admit they make mistakes and aren’t perfect. They just consider themselves more perfect compared to others. However, sin is more than a mistake. It’s intentional disobedience to God.
Furthermore, God measures us by His standard. And that standard of absolute perfection is way beyond our reach.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and test the mind,to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. (ESV, Jeremiah 17:9-19)
Until you see the wickedness in your heart and accept yourself as one totally corrupted by sin, you’ll never fully grasp or appreciate how undeserving you are of God’s grace. Or understand the magnitude of the grace God offers.
Three pillars of Biblical Grace. God as Judge.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:10)
We demand justice when we’re the victims, but expect something different from God. After all. Isn’t He love? So shouldn’t we get an exception?
Unfortunately, this idea misunderstands God’s character. Yes, He is perfect love. But He is also perfectly just. And one does not supersede the other. The idea that God holds us accountable for our sins is unpopular. But it is a clear teaching in scripture.
It is only when you understand that judgment is both impending and deserved that you can fully appreciate God’s grace. Because that is exactly what it means. That you DON’T get what you DESERVE.
Three pillars of Biblical Grace. Jesus Christ is God’s provision for sin.
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
God sent Jesus Christ to die in our place and pay the penalty for sin. By asking Jesus for forgiveness and following him as Lord, God’s standard for perfect justice is met. Because Jesus was the perfect sacrifice. And when those who follow Jesus appear for judgment, Jesus will extend to them grace.
Therefore, Jesus Christ is God’s provision of grace. The gift of a perfect, loving father who satisfies the demands of a perfectly just God. And that’s what it means to be redeemed people of God. And saved by grace.
It’s good to remember that grace is both undeserved and free. But it was not cheap.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Winning the war for a Godly mind is a never ending fight. Because it’s one battle after another. And there is a real spiritual adversary who knows our every weakness and attacks the most fertile field for reaping a sinful harvest. Our minds. Here are three ways to fight back.
Winning the war for a Godly Mind. Fill it with Godly thoughts.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (ESV, Philippians 4:8)
What fills your mind will occupy your thoughts. So a Godly mind is intentional about what it lets in and allows to stay. Of course there’s Mindspace reserved for work and family obligations. Along with other cognitive calculations in the grind of daily life. But beyond them, what sources of news, entertainment, and lifestyle do you consume? Because they drive your thoughts. Frame your attitudes. And form your worldview. Too much slop causes brain rot. And gives your adversary, Satan, much to work with.
Therefore, guard what gets in. A great way to start your morning is by reading God’s Word. Play inspirational music in the car, when doing chores, and at work. Read, watch, and listen to content that promotes what is pure, lovely and admirable.
As you actively consume content that honors God, your thoughts will more regularly influence actions that honor him too.
Winning the war for a Godly Mind. Keep it purposefully directed.
Behavior is seldom completely random and impulsive. It begins with a thought. And thoughts are rehearsals for actions. Therefore, purposefully direct those mental rehearsals in a positive manner by…
Capturing your thoughts
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. (ESV, 2 Corinthian 10:5)
Capturing your thoughts involves immediately addressing the ones you want to push out. Rather than trying NOT to think about them, consciously replace them by turning your mind to other thoughts.
Renewing your mind
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (ESV, Romans 12:2)
Our minds are plastic. And while we can’t eliminate bad memories and negative thought patterns, we can diminish them by building new, Godly memories and thought patterns. God’s Spirit renews our mind as we honor him through praise, worship, and feeding on His Word. These new thoughts and activities influence Godly behavior that forms a new, Godly character.
Leaning on God’s mercy
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (ESV, Lamentation 3:22-23)
We won’t win every mental battle over sin. But God is gracious. And as we regularly confess our sin and seek God’s forgiveness, he covers us with His mercy. In that mercy and by God’s grace, our minds can reset and start fresh with each new day.
Winning the war for a Godly Mind. Rest in God’s peace.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (ESV, Isaiah 26:3)
A Godly mind will celebrate complete victory in an eternal future. But it can still experience a present peace. Because peace in a Biblical worldview is more than inner tranquility or lack of conflict. It is achieved through a right relationship with God. So rather than seek within for peace, reach up to God. Because real peace is experienced through His presence in your life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Ways people approach ultimate life questions. Who am I? Why am I here? What happens when I die? Over the years in ministry I’ve observed different ways people approach these ultimate life questions. Here are four of the most common ones.
Ways people approach ultimate life questions. Press on and don’t think about it
When I was in seminary as a single adult, I attended a religious conference in Glorieta, New Mexico. The conference center was nestled among mountains. And during free time, a girl, another guy, and I decided to hike up the side of a mountain.
Now this was not Mount Everest. It was covered by trees, not snow and actually had a hiking path to the top so it wasn’t treacherous. But it was very steep with some spots where I climbed on all fours. Along the way we came to a clearing and the girl and I paused to take in the scenery. We were awed by the majestic beauty and an Almighty God who created it.
However, the other guy chided us for wasting time. He was on a mission to reach the top. And as he pressed ahead the girl looked at me with a smile and said, “He’s a get there hiker.”
That’s how some people approach life.
Always busy. Moving forward. Determined to get there. So they set goals, establish agendas, and move forward on the path to get ahead. A better job, bigger house, and higher income. Don’t waste your time speculating. Just keep pressing forward.
I see this approach most often in young adults who are full of energy, dreams, and aspirations. Older people slow down because…well, you don’t have a choice. And become more introspective as they realize there is more of life behind than ahead of them.
Of course, the Bible talks about pressing ahead too. It just has a different focus. Here’s what the Apostle Paul says:
Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (ESV, Philippians 3:13-14)
Paul pressed forward with a goal and Godly purpose which was to follow and more closely imitate Jesus Christ. He would claim his prize when he entered heaven.
Ways people approach ultimate life questions. Hope for the best.
This is my approach to golf. In my younger days I played golf with a friend who was a scratch golfer. I on the other hand, was a hacker.
And if we were on a hill in the fairway as we approached the green, and the green was at the top and we couldn’t see the pin, my friend would pace it off. He’d walk up to the hole and back, select a club, and put the ball within six feet of the pin.
I on the other hand just took my chances. Guess on the right club, hit the ball and hope for the best. Because for me, hitting the ball straight was an accomplishment and getting within six yards of the green a win.
And this is how some people approach their spiritual life. They generally believe in God and have a sense of moral right and wrong. They know bits and pieces about Christianity and perhaps attend church occasionally. But they don’t explore it deeply or make it an important part of their life. They aim in what they see as the right spiritual direction and hope for the best.
But you don’t have to wonder. Or guess. Or hope for the best. Scripture says you can know.
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. (ESV, 1 John 5:13)
The Bible answers life’s ultimate questions. And provides assurance to those who embrace its truth. You don’t have to guess, but you do have to seek its truth. And take the time to study and learn God’s word.
Ways people approach ultimate life questions. Do good things.
This is the most common approach because most people believe in God. They have a sense of right and wrong. Good and evil. And know heaven is where the good people go. But they don’t recognize the real problem, which is sin. Instead, they mistakenly believe that God uses this spiritual scale to weigh the good against the bad and if the good wins out, you go to heaven.
So, typically, this person compares themselves morally to others. They admit they aren’t perfect, but consider themselves morally superior to criminals shown on the news. And to prove it, they post all their virtuous acts on social media.
A rich young man who encounters Jesus and he asks him, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?
And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.”He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
He did the right things and checked off all the boxes. But knew something was still missing. So he asked, “What else do I lack?”
And what he lacked was a heart sold out to Jesus. And Jesus saw his heart. Just like he sees our hearts. The young man’s first priority was material possessions. Which is why Jesus told him to give it all away. Because Jesus wants to be our first priority. You see the do good approach wants to make a contribution. But Jesus wants a commitment. And this takes us to the last approach.
Ways people approach ultimate life questions. Follow Jesus
John 3:16 is one of the most well-known scripture verses in the Bible and says, “For God so loved the world he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
However, Jesus was more demanding.
If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. (ESV, Luke 9:23)
Following Jesus is not an easy path. Especially in today’s secular culture that is growing more hostile towards the Bible and Christians. It takes more courage and commitment to follow Jesus today than ever before.
It involves submitting yourself to God. Confessing your sin, asking Jesus for forgiveness, and following him as Savior and Lord. It’s the approach that answers all the ultimate questions in life.
Deuteronomy 13:4 puts it this way:
It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.
It’s simple though not easy. But it’s a life full of joy. Of meaning and purpose. And eternal hope. As you consider these different approaches, I pray you consider the one that follows Jesus.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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Christianity gives a second chance. And that’s what sets it apart from other religions. Because life is complicated and we don’t always get things right the first time. So God gives us a spiritual do over through a walk of faith.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your life
If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and follow me.
If you’re headed in the wrong direction and need a course correction, Christianity offers a second chance to turn your life around.
But first you have to recognize the real problem. What the Bible calls sin. Essentially, sin is separation from God. Represented by the natural inclination to follow selfish desires and disobey God’s moral laws. However, Jesus Christ is the remedy when we willingly choose to follow him.
Jesus described it in a conversation with a religious leader named Nicodemus.
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. (ESV. John 3:3)
Sound confusing? Nicodemus was certainly confused. Because Jesus was talking about a spiritual rebirth. And that takes place when we confess Jesus as Savior and follow him as Lord.
It doesn’t mean we are suddenly perfect and never sin again. Or the earthly consequences of sin goes away. But it does mean that in God’s eyes, our sin is wiped clean.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your mind
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (ESV, Romans 12:2)
Sin trashes our minds. Fills it with fear, anxiety, loneliness, mental disorders, traumatic memories, and more. Because our adversary, Satan, wants to keep us mentally oppressed. But God renews our minds.
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (ESV, Matthew 4:17)
The change begins when we repent. Hold on, it’s not the stereotypical, red faced pastor screaming condemnation and judgement.
The Greek word is mĕtanŏĕō, which means to think differently or reconsider. It’s an act of our will to consciously move in a new direction. The point is, God does not control or manipulate our decisions. We have to want His second chance offer. But He heals the demons in our minds when we turn it over to Him.
Christianity gives a second chance to change your heart
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. (ESV, Jeremiah 17:9-10)
Well meaning people say we are basically good. And encourage us to follow our hearts. However, Scripture says our hearts are full of sin. And following it leads to eternal death. But through Jesus our hearts are changed when we seek his forgiveness of sin.
That’s when God goes to work.
And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. (ESV, Ezekiel 36:26-27)
The change is not always immediate. But it is dramatic as your character radically transforms into a new person. One with a new perspective, purpose, and sense of hope in a walk of faith.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:17)
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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