Chapter 19—Ascension of Christ
After the meeting of Jesus with the brethren, at Galilee, the disci-
ples returned to Jerusalem; and while the eleven were gathered together
in the city Jesus met with them, and again led their minds out into
the prophecies concerning himself. He deeply impressed upon their
understanding the necessity of thoroughly studying the ancient prophe-
cies regarding Messiah, and of comparing them with the facts of his
life, death, and resurrection, in order to establish their fulfillment in
himself. They were to diligently trace link after link of sacred truth
revealed by the prophets, in types and figures representing the Lamb
slain from the foundation of the world. He lifted the vail from their
understanding, concerning the typical system of the Jews, and they
now saw clearly the meaning of the forms and symbols which were
virtually abolished by the death of Christ.
The Saviour of the world, as a divine Conqueror, was about to
ascend to his Father’s throne. He selected the Mount of Olives as the
scene of this last display of his glory. Accompanied by the eleven,
he made his way to the mountain. The disciples were not aware that
this was to be their last season with their Master. He employed the
time in sacred converse with them, reiterating his former instructions.
As they passed through the gates of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes
looked upon the little company, led by one whom a few weeks before
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the priests and rulers had condemned and crucified.
They crossed the Kedron, and approached Gethsemane. Here
Jesus paused, that his disciples might call to mind the lessons he had
given them while on his way to the garden on the night of his great
agony. He looked again upon the vine which he had then used as
a symbol to represent the union of his church with himself and his
Father; and he refreshed the memory of his followers by repeating the
impressive truths which he had then illustrated to them. Reminders of
the unrequited love of Jesus were all around him; even the disciples
walking by his side, who were so dear to his heart, had, in the hour
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