In a Nutshell:

Following the victory won at the cross and validated by the resurrection, the ascension and the sending of the Holy Spirit are about applying the benefits of Jesus’ finished work to our lives.

Anchor Verse:

Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV) “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”

Unpacking the Word:

Yesterday, we considered the resurrection as God’s affirmation of Jesus’ finished work. Today, we explore the subsequent events: Jesus’ ascension into heaven and the sending of the Holy Spirit. Colin explained that these events are crucial for the “application and implementation” of the victory won at the cross.

Imagine a grand victory in a war. The initial battle secures the win, but the subsequent actions involve establishing peace, implementing new governance, and ensuring the benefits of the victory reach all those who were fighting for it. Similarly, Jesus’ death and resurrection were the decisive victory over sin and death. His ascension and the sending of the Holy Spirit are the means by which the fruits of that victory are distributed and experienced by believers throughout history.

When Jesus ascended to the right hand of the Father, He took His rightful place as Lord and King. From this position of authority, He sent the Holy Spirit, the promised Helper, to indwell and empower those who believe in Him. Ephesians 1:13-14 describes this beautifully. When we heard the gospel and believed, we were included in Christ and “marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.”

The Holy Spirit is not just a distant force; He is the very presence of God living within us. He is the one who applies the benefits of Jesus’ finished work to our lives. He convicts us of sin, draws us to Christ, regenerates our hearts, and empowers us to live lives that honor God. He is described as a “deposit guaranteeing our inheritance,” assuring us of the full redemption that awaits us.

Through the Holy Spirit, we experience the forgiveness purchased at the cross and the new life secured by the resurrection. He enables us to walk in the victory that Christ has already won. He provides the strength to resist temptation, the wisdom to make godly choices, and the love to serve others. The ascension and the sending of the Spirit are not afterthoughts; they are integral to God’s plan of salvation, ensuring that the finished work of Christ transforms our lives from the inside out.

Pause and Reflect:

How aware are you of the Holy Spirit’s presence and work in your daily life? In what ways can you be more open to the leading and empowering of the Holy Spirit? How does understanding the Holy Spirit as a “guarantee” of your inheritance impact your sense of security in Christ?

Faith in Action:

Take some time today to consciously acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. Pray for a greater awareness of His leading and for the strength to yield to His guidance. Consider reading passages in Acts that describe the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2) and His subsequent work in the early church.

A Moment With God:

Holy Spirit, I thank You for Your presence in my life. Help me to be more attuned to Your voice and to fully receive the benefits of Jesus’ finished work through Your power.

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