The Ascension of Jesus: Its Eschatological Importance
- 1. The Ascension of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology, marks the moment when Jesus Christ, after his resurrection, was taken up into heaven in the presence of his disciples. This event is not merely a narrative of departure but holds profound eschatological significance. It serves as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divine nature and His rightful place at the right hand of God, symbolizing His sovereignty and authority over all creation. The Ascension also emphasizes the promise of His return; Christians believe that just as Jesus ascended, He will return to fulfill His promise of establishing God's kingdom in its fullness, bringing ultimate justice and restoration to a broken world. Moreover, the Ascension is seen as the inauguration of the Holy Spirit's work on Earth, empowering believers to continue the mission of spreading the Gospel and living out the values of the kingdom of God. This event encapsulates the hope and expectation of Christian eschatology, where believers look forward to the fulfillment of God's promises and the final realization of eternal life with Him. Thus, the Ascension is not an end but a beginning, heralding a future where God's reign is fully realized, transforming both individuals and creation for His glory.
How many days after His resurrection did Jesus ascend into heaven?
A) 50 days. B) 40 days. C) 10 days. D) 30 days.
- 2. What promise did Jesus make before His Ascension?
A) He would send the Holy Spirit. B) He would build a new temple. C) He would return within a year. D) He would stay on earth permanently.
- 3. In which chapter of Acts is the Ascension described?
A) Acts 1. B) Acts 2. C) Acts 3. D) Acts 4.
- 4. What reaction did the disciples have to the Ascension?
A) They thought it was a dream. B) They were confused and frightened. C) They were filled with joy and hope. D) They returned to their old professions.
- 5. What does Jesus’s Ascension signify about His nature?
A) His mortality. B) His divine authority and sovereignty. C) His disconnection from humanity. D) His human limitations.
- 6. The phrase 'He will come again' in Christian creeds refers to what?
A) The day of Pentecost. B) His resurrection. C) The Second Coming of Christ. D) The creation of the world.
- 7. Which angelic beings appeared at the time of the Ascension?
A) Cherubim and Seraphim. B) Demons in the form of men. C) Two men in white robes. D) Archangels Michael and Gabriel.
- 8. The Ascension is commemorated in which Christian feast?
A) Easter. B) Pentecost. C) Ascension Day. D) Christmas.
- 9. What does the term 'right hand of God' imply?
A) Position of honor and authority. B) Position of distance. C) Position of judgment. D) Position of subservience.
- 10. The promise of the Holy Spirit is referred to as what?
A) The Lawgiver. B) The Redeemer. C) The Teacher. D) The Comforter.
- 11. The Ascension provides assurance of what future event?
A) The return of Jesus. B) The establishment of a new religion. C) The end of the world. D) The judgment of believers only.
- 12. What does Jesus's Ascension symbolize concerning His ministry?
A) A disconnect from His followers. B) The completion and continuation through the Church. C) The ending of His divine powers. D) The start of a new religion.
- 13. What was a primary theme of Jesus’s teachings about the Kingdom of God before the Ascension?
A) That it was only a physical kingdom. B) That it would not come until His next visit. C) That it is both a present reality and a future hope. D) That it was only for the Jews.
- 14. At the Ascension, how did Jesus depart?
A) He simply walked away. B) He ascended in fire. C) He vanished from sight. D) He was taken up into a cloud.
- 15. Which group witnessed the Ascension?
A) The disciples. B) The Samaritans. C) The Pharisees. D) The Romans.
|