5 Reasons why Jesus rose to heaven
Can you believe this - Jesus' work was not completed at His resurrection? He warmly addresses His disciples just prior to His crucifixion that they will not be abandoned, but rather guided and comforted:
I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever - the Spirit of truth... I will not leave you as orphans... (John 14:16, 17a, 18a)
when the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you ... (John 15:26a)
it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go I will send Him to you. (John 16:7)
Jesus prepares His disciples for 'the Counselor' - His Holy Spirit. Please note that 'counselor' is also historically translated as 'comforter'.
Jesus' ascension introduces the work of the Holy Spirit among men. Could Jesus and the Counselor be a supernatural tag team?
The Holy Spirit is the heavenly Lover's engagement ring given to us. ~ Michael Green
John's gospel is marvelous in its details. Chapters 14 - 16 are 'stacked well' as he develops the Holy Spirit's role.
Five tasks that the Holy Spirit fulfills for Jesus, He will:
- teach all things and remind of everything that Jesus has said - 14:15
- testify about Jesus - 15:26c
- convict the world of guilt in regard of sin and righteousness and judgement - 16:8
- guide into all truth - 16:13b
- bring glory to Me by taking from what is Mine and make it known to you - 16:14
Jesus now prepares a place for each follower. Then, He returns to us that we shall ascend to dwell with Him forever.
His Holy Spirit is our down-payment for these days of mortal toil.
The Last Word:
Jesus departs, but He leaves His followers large bequests: the Holy Spirit and His peace. ~ Don Carson