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As They Were Looking

As They Were Looking

When he had said these things, as they were looking, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight. Acts 1:9 WEB

This statement describes Jesus’ ascension into heaven after his resurrection and forty days of further instruction to the faithful. Acts 1:8 records the Lord’s assurance and assignment to his followers. It says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth. WEB” 

In his following statement, the words “as they were looking” have significance beyond what is immediately apparent. Of course, they indicate the reliability of the eyewitness account of those present as Christ ascended into heaven. But beyond that, these words demonstrate the disciples’ fixation on the Lord, astonishment at what they witnessed, and willingness to follow him.

Taken Into Heaven

As they were looking, the Lord ascended into a cloud and will return, descending from a cloud. Additionally, the Bible records the words of two men dressed in white informing the onlookers of Christ’s return. Acts 1:11 reads, “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. NIV” These men appear to be angels. 

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 gives a similar description of the return of Christ saying, “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with God’s trumpet. The dead in Christ will rise first, then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. So we will be with the Lord forever. WEB”

Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the testimony of the faithful witnesses to the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. Thank you for the hope that comes from the promise of his return. Give me wisdom to share the truth of the gospel with the world. Help me to swerve your purpose. In Jesus name – Amen”  

Yesterday’s Devotional: Spirit and Truth

Honor All Men

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Prayer and Petition

In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 WEB Should we be worried? As children of God, the answer is a resounding “no!” Paul indicates that we should not be worried or...

The Faithful and Wise Manager

The Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time? Luke 12:42 NIV Jesus is talking with his disciples about using wisdom and faithfully taking care of...