Unveiling the Theological Significance of Ascension in Light of John 20:17

Introduction:

In the Gospel of John 20:17, a profound statement by Jesus unveils a pivotal moment with significant theological ramifications: “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.” This verse, spoken by Jesus to Mary Magdalene, holds the key to understanding the theological implications of the ascension.

The Ascension and its Biblical:

The concept of ascension is deeply rooted in biblical narratives and holds a central place in Christian theology. Jesus’ ascension to the Father is a transformative event that marks the culmination of His earthly ministry. In this verse, Jesus makes a clear distinction between His earthly presence and His imminent ascension, emphasizing the sacred nature of this transition.

Ascension as a Symbol of Spiritual Elevation:

The ascension signifies more than a physical departure; it symbolizes a spiritual elevation and a reunification with the divine. Jesus, by ascending to the Father, establishes a connection between God and humanity, bridging the gap that sin had created. This divine reunion opens the way for believers to share in the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father, as expressed in the phrase, “I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.”

Theological Ramifications:

Access to the Father:
Jesus’ ascension paves the way for believers to approach God as their Father. The familial relationship established through the ascension is a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s redemptive work.

Unified Relationship with God:
The phrase “my God, and your God” emphasizes a shared connection between Jesus and believers. The ascension unites believers with Christ in a profound way, offering a shared spiritual inheritance.

Promise of the Holy Spirit:
Following the ascension, Jesus fulfills His promise to send the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to continue His work on earth. The ascension, coupled with the coming of the Holy Spirit, inaugurates a new era of spiritual guidance and empowerment.

Prayer Points:
1- Heavenly Father, we pray for a profound spiritual elevation in our lives. May we experience a deeper connection with You.
2- Heavenly Father, we come before You with a heartfelt desire for a unified relationship with You, Help us to understand the privilege of approaching You as our Father. May our lives reflect the unity established through Christ’s ascension.
3- Heavenly Father, Grant us an openness to the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives. May we be vessels for the continuation of Christ’s work on earth, fueled by the divine strength imparted through the Holy Spirit.

Confessions:
1- I confess that through Jesus’ ascension, I am a child of God, granted access to the Father and I embrace the reality of approaching God as my Father.
2- I confess that I am part of a shared spiritual inheritance, connected to Jesus through the declaration, “my God, and your God.” I embrace the unity established through the ascension.
3- I confess that, in light of Jesus’ ascension and the promise of the Holy Spirit, I am empowered to continue the work of Christ on earth. I yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in my daily life.

Conclusion:

John 20:17 encapsulates the theological depth of Jesus’ ascension, emphasizing the transformative impact on the relationship between God and humanity. As believers reflect on this biblical event, they are invited to embrace their identity as children of God, united with Christ through His ascension. The theological ramifications extend far beyond a historical event, shaping the core of Christian doctrine and inviting believers into a profound and intimate communion with the divine.