This week, we are concluding our sermon series on Easter. On Good Friday, we remembered that there was a crucifixion. On Easter Sunday, Jesus was resurrected. For many Christians and churches, Easter is the end of the celebration but that was not the end. Forty days later, there was an ascension. We tend to forget this part of the story where Jesus ascended back into heaven. You may ask “Why does that matter for me at all?” or wonder what this day even means. Let us read and discover the importance of this part of the story in the Bible.
We recommend you follow the following steps to worship @Home
1. Join in the praise section of the English worship video @mykec.ca @10am
2. Use the following content to explore The Disciples @The Ascension
3. Today’s Bible passages are from Acts 1:1-11
Introduction: Luke, a physician, wrote the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. Acts recorded what happened after Jesus died and resurrected.
Why were the 40 days before Jesus returned to Heaven important to the disciples?
The disciples were convinced that Jesus’ resurrection was neither an illusion nor a dream. Jesus spent time teaching his followers about the kingdom of God. (Acts 1:3)
4. What did the disciples learn at @The ascension?
a) The disciples of Jesus will receive the Holy Spirit which will help them to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8)
b) The good news is for everyone - Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (Acts 1:8)
c) One day, Jesus will return to establish his kingdom. (Acts 1:10-11)
5. Why does the ascension matter to you?
Jesus’ death and resurrection gave us the joy of salvation and the victory over sins and death. His ascension and the gift of the Holy Spirit give us hope for His return and the power to live out His commandments.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13
6. How can you respond?
Know that one day Jesus will return. He has given us the commandment to preach the good news and He has given us the Holy Spirit to accomplish this task.
We can respond by:
a) Thank God for his Son and the Holy Spirit.
b) Write or draw a picture about your hope in the returning of Jesus Christ.
c) Ask God for an opportunity to share the good news with a specific person this week.
Join us in prayers for:
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- the wisdom and protection over our frontline workers, teachers and the world leaders.
- the healing of those who are sicked; and comfort and hope to those who experienced loss.
- the scientists to understand the virus and to discover ways to help the sicks.
- our church to continue to help those who are in need and to reach those who need to hear the good news.
