5/23/14- Ascension

We do not doubt but that the selfsame body which was born of the virgin, was crucified, dead, and buried, and which did rise again, did ascend into the heavens, for the accomplishment of all things, where in our name and for our comfort he has received all power in heaven and earth, where he sits at the right hand of the Father, having received his kingdom, the only advocate and mediator for us. Which glory, honor, and prerogative, he alone amongst the brethren shall possess till all his enemies are made his footstool, as we undoubtedly believe they shall be in the Last Judgment (Scots Confession 11a).

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (Colossians 3:1)

Thoughts: Knox links the ascension of Christ to the second coming of Christ.  Both are spiritual and supernatural things that involve the body of Christ.  If there was no ascension- with the going up to a position of power, there would be no returning from heaven with power.  His ascension awaits the accomplishment of "all things" meaning that everything that should happen before he comes again.
     In very court-like imagery Christ is seen as ascending to the position of power (the right hand of the judge) he is our advocate/lawyer- who mediates our case to the righteous judge.  
      Knox says Christ not only has glory and honor but also "prerogative."  Jesus alone has a true choice not influenced by other choices.  He awaits not only the accomplishment of all things, but also the defeat of His enemies.  This implies a belief that Knox thought the world would get better and better til the Lord comes back. 


Prayer: You deserve praise because you ascended.  We look forward to your coming again, O Lord, to set things straight.  

Raphael

5/23/14- The Resurrection

We undoubtedly believe, since it was impossible that the sorrows of death should retain in bondage the Author of life, that our Lord Jesus crucified, dead, and buried, who descended into hell, did rise again for our justification, and the destruction of him who was the author of death and its bondage. We know that his resurrection was confirmed by the testimony of his enemies, and by the resurrection of the dead, whose sepulchers did open, and they did rise and appear to many within the city of Jerusalem. It was also confirmed by the testimony of his angels, and by the senses and judgment of his apostles and of others, who had conversation, and did eat and drink with him after his resurrection. (Scots Confession Chapter 10)

Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1 Cor. 15:57)

Thoughts: Some think of the resurrection as impossible.  Knox points out that it is impossible for the one who gave life to have it taken away permanently.  On the way to the resurrection, he justified us and destroys the power of the devil (here called "the author of death") and the bondage of death that keeps us from eternal life.  Knox emphasizes the surprising testimonies to Christ's resurrection: angels, devils, and others who rose from the dead at his death.  The apostles didn't just see Jesus, but they talked with Him, ate and drank with Him.

Prayer: You, indeed, are the resurrection and the life.  I give you thanks for your gift of life now and in the life to come. Thank you for the assurances you give me that help me focus on you with hope.