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Chapter 87—Christ’s Triumphal Entry Into Heaven
This chapter is based on
Luke 24:50-53
;
Acts 1:9-12
.
The time had come for Christ to ascend to His Father’s throne as
a divine conqueror. After His resurrection He tarried on earth for a
season, that His disciples might become familiar with Him in His
glorified body. Now He was ready for the leave-taking. His disciples
need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could think of
Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.
As the place of ascension, Jesus chose the spot so often hallowed
by His presence while He dwelt among men—the Mount of Olives.
Its groves and glens had been consecrated by His prayers and tears.
In the garden of Gethsemane at its foot He had prayed and agonized
alone. On its summit His feet will rest when He shall come again
as a glorious king, while Hebrew hallelujahs mingle with Gentile
hosannas, and a mighty host shall swell the acclamation, Crown Him
Lord of all!
Now with the eleven disciples Jesus made His way toward the
mountain. As they passed through the gate of Jerusalem, many
wondering eyes looked on the little company, led by One whom a
few weeks before the rulers had crucified. The disciples knew not
that this was to be their last interview with the Master. Jesus spent
the time in conversation with them, repeating His former instruction.
As they approached Gethsemane, He paused. He looked on the vine
by which He had represented the union of His church with Himself
and His Father. Again He repeated the truths He had then unfolded.
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In the world for thirty-three years, Christ had endured scorn,
insult, and mockery. He had been rejected and crucified. Now as He
reviewed the ingratitude of the people He came to save, would He
withdraw from them His sympathy and love? No; His promise is, “I
am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”
Matthew 28:20
.
On reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the
summit to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples
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