Christ's Ascension: Hope, Transformation, and Compassion
Summary
Today’s gathering centered on the profound truths found in the Apostles’ Creed, especially the lines affirming Christ’s ascension, his place at the right hand of God, and his promised return to judge the living and the dead. We began by remembering the joys and freedoms we celebrate as a nation, but also held in prayer those who are suffering—our friends at Redan United Methodist Church after their sanctuary fire, and the many affected by the Texas floods. These moments of both celebration and sorrow remind us of our calling to be people of compassion, unity, and hope, shaped by Christ’s love.
Reflecting on the Creed, we explored the meaning of Christ’s ascension—not as a departure, but as a transition in his ministry. The ascension marks Jesus’ ongoing intercession for us and his reign in glory. The imagery of the cloud in Acts echoes God’s presence throughout Scripture, signifying divine glory and a new phase in God’s relationship with humanity. We also considered how our understanding of the universe has changed over time, and how the language of the Creed, though sometimes archaic, connects us to generations of believers who have gone before us. The Creed’s language may need explanation, but its truths remain foundational.
We then turned to the topic of judgment. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25 makes clear that final judgment is not about tallying good deeds or simply avoiding punishment, but about lives transformed by grace—lives marked by compassion, justice, and love for the least among us. Salvation is not merely a future hope, but a present reality: to be saved is to be healed, made whole, and drawn into communion with God. The Christian life is not about fear or “fire insurance,” but about responding to Christ’s invitation to abundant life and participating in his redemptive work in the world.
As we shared in Holy Communion, we remembered that Christ’s sacrifice unites us, forgives us, and calls us to be his body in the world—living out the love, mercy, and hope we have received. We are invited to the table not because we are perfect, but because Christ welcomes all who seek him. May we go forth as people shaped by these holy habits, ready to serve, give, and love as Christ has loved us.
Key Takeaways
- The ascension of Jesus is not a story of absence, but of transition and ongoing presence. Christ’s ascension into the cloud signifies his entry into divine glory and his continued intercession for us. This moment invites us to trust that Jesus is not distant, but actively reigning and advocating on our behalf, calling us to live with hope and confidence in his lordship. [51:33]
- The language and cosmology of our faith have evolved, but the heart of the gospel remains unchanged. While ancient understandings of the universe shaped the imagery of Scripture and the Creed, the essential truth is that God meets us in every age, inviting us to deeper relationship and understanding. We are called to hold fast to the core of our faith, even as we seek fresh ways to express and live it out in our time. [48:19]
- Judgment, as taught by Jesus, is not about fear or mere avoidance of punishment, but about the transformation of our lives by grace. The true measure is not a checklist of good deeds, but whether our hearts have been shaped by compassion for the “least of these.” Our faith is authenticated by love in action, not by anxiety over our eternal destination. [01:02:32]
- Salvation is a present transformation, not just a future destination. To be saved is to be healed, made whole, and drawn into communion with God. The gospel is an invitation to abundant life here and now, marked by justice, mercy, and peace, rather than a transaction to escape judgment. [01:04:30]
- Holy habits—like giving, serving, and sharing in communion—form us into people who reflect Christ’s generosity and love. These practices are not mere rituals, but means by which the Spirit shapes our hearts, reorients our priorities, and draws us into the ongoing work of God’s kingdom. Our offerings, prayers, and acts of service are ways we participate in God’s redemptive story. [39:35]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[18:22] - Call to Worship and Affirmation of Faith
[34:22] - Prayers for Redan UMC and Texas Flood Victims
[36:45] - Praying for Our Nation and Unity
[37:48] - Offering and the Habit of Giving
[39:35] - The Spiritual Practice of Generosity
[45:46] - Introduction to the Apostles’ Creed Series
[48:19] - Understanding the Language of the Creed
[50:07] - The Ascension in Acts and the Significance of “40 Days”
[51:33] - The Meaning of the Ascension and Changing Cosmology
[01:01:23] - The Reality and Nature of Judgment
[01:02:32] - Jesus’ Teaching on Judgment in Matthew 25
[01:04:30] - Salvation: More Than Avoiding Hell
[01:10:51] - Holy Communion: Invitation and Remembrance
[01:12:50] - Communion Instructions and Closing
[01:20:25] - Benediction and Sending Forth
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Ascension, Judgment, and Living the Creed
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### Bible Reading
Acts 1:3-11 (ESV)
> He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
> So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
> And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Matthew 25:31-40 (ESV)
> “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.
> Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’
> Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’
> And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’”
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### Observation Questions
1. In Acts 1, what is the significance of the cloud that takes Jesus out of the disciples’ sight? How does the sermon connect this to God’s presence in the Old Testament? ([51:33])
2. According to Matthew 25, what are the actions that separate the “sheep” from the “goats” at the final judgment? ([01:02:32])
3. The sermon mentions that Jesus’ ascension is not about absence but about a transition in his ministry. What does Jesus begin to do after his ascension, according to the sermon? ([51:33])
4. What does the sermon say about the language of the Apostles’ Creed and how our understanding of the universe has changed over time? ([48:19])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The cloud in Acts 1 is described as a symbol of God’s presence and glory. Why might it be important that Jesus enters a cloud at his ascension, and how does this shape our understanding of where Jesus is now? ([51:33])
2. In Matthew 25, Jesus says that serving “the least of these” is the same as serving him. What does this reveal about the kind of transformation Jesus expects in his followers? ([01:02:32])
3. The sermon argues that judgment is not about tallying good deeds or avoiding punishment, but about lives transformed by grace. How does this challenge common ideas about salvation and judgment? ([01:04:30])
4. The sermon discusses how the language and imagery of the Creed may feel outdated but still connects us to generations of believers. Why might it be valuable to hold onto these words, even as we seek to express our faith in new ways? ([48:19])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon says the ascension means Jesus is not distant, but actively reigning and interceding for us. When you feel alone or overwhelmed, how might remembering Christ’s ongoing presence change your outlook or actions? ([51:33])
2. The “cloud” in the ascension story is a sign of God’s glory and presence. Where have you experienced God’s presence in unexpected ways, especially during times of transition or uncertainty? ([51:33])
3. Jesus’ teaching on judgment in Matthew 25 focuses on compassion for the “least of these.” Who in your life or community might be considered “the least,” and what is one practical way you can show compassion to them this week? ([01:02:32])
4. The sermon says salvation is not just about a future in heaven, but about being healed and made whole now. Is there an area of your life where you need God’s healing or wholeness? How can you invite God into that area this week? ([01:04:30])
5. The message challenges us to move beyond “fire insurance” faith. Are there ways you have related to God out of fear rather than love? What would it look like to respond to Christ’s invitation to abundant life instead? ([01:04:30])
6. The sermon highlights “holy habits” like giving, serving, and sharing in communion as ways God shapes us. Which of these habits comes most naturally to you, and which one is a challenge? What is one step you can take to grow in a holy habit this month? ([39:35])
7. The Creed connects us to believers across time, even if the language feels old. Is there a phrase or line from the Creed that is especially meaningful or confusing to you? How might you rephrase it in your own words to make it more personal? ([48:19])
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Devotional
Day 1: The Ascension of Jesus—A Transition to Intercession and Glory
The ascension of Jesus marks not a departure, but a profound transition in his ministry: from his earthly presence to his heavenly intercession for us. As Jesus is taken up into the cloud, this echoes the Old Testament symbol of God’s presence, affirming his divine identity and signaling a new phase where he sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding on our behalf. The ascension is not about distance, but about Jesus’ ongoing work for us, inviting us to trust that he is present and active even when we cannot see him. [51:33]
Acts 1:3-11 (ESV)
He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to trust that Jesus is present and interceding for you, even when you cannot see or feel him?
Day 2: The Meaning of Judgment—Transformed Lives, Not Fear
Final judgment is not about tallying good deeds or living in fear, but about whether our lives have been transformed by God’s grace to show compassion, love, and justice. Jesus’ teaching on judgment, especially in Matthew 25, reveals that what matters is how we respond to the needs of others, reflecting the love we have received. The Christian life is not primarily about avoiding punishment, but about being invited into a relationship with God that changes us and calls us to serve others in tangible ways. [01:02:32]
Matthew 25:31-40 (ESV)
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’”
Reflection: Who is someone in your life right now who needs compassion or practical help, and how can you serve them as if you were serving Christ himself?
Day 3: Salvation—An Invitation to Transformation, Not Just a Future Destination
Salvation is not merely about securing a place in heaven or avoiding hell; it is about present transformation—being healed, made whole, and brought into communion with God. The gospel is not a warning, but an invitation to abundant life, love, hope, and purpose. To be saved is to become more like Christ and to participate in his redemptive work in the world, living out love and justice here and now. [01:05:40]
Romans 12:1-2 (ESV)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 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.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you sense God inviting you to deeper transformation, and what step can you take today to respond to that invitation?
Day 4: Generosity—Giving as a Holy Habit That Shapes the Heart
Giving is not just about supporting the church or fulfilling an obligation; it is a holy habit that reorients our hearts, shapes our priorities, and forms us into people who are more generous, trusting, and compassionate. Where we invest our treasure, our hearts will follow, and through the rhythm of giving, we participate in God’s work and become more like Jesus. [39:35]
Matthew 6:21 (ESV)
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Reflection: What is one way you can practice generosity this week—whether with your resources, time, or attention—to help shape your heart more toward Christ?
Day 5: Living as Instruments of Peace and Unity
As citizens of both this nation and God’s kingdom, we are called to be instruments of peace and agents of unity, listening with empathy, speaking with grace, and acting with courage and love. The freedom and blessings we enjoy are not just for ourselves, but are meant to be shared as we seek to reflect Christ’s humility, compassion, and joy in our community and beyond. [36:45]
Philippians 2:1-4 (ESV)
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Reflection: How can you intentionally listen with empathy or act with courage and love toward someone with whom you disagree or feel divided today?
Quotes
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