Mark 16:19
So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
Mark 16:19
Verse 19 ends with Jesus’ ascension: He was received up into heaven and sits at the right hand of God. This climactic moment marks the completion of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the beginning of the church’s mission empowered by the Spirit. The imagery of sitting at God’s right hand conveys authority and sovereignty. It confirms the cosmic scope of Jesus’ rule and the certainty of his ongoing intercession. In Jewish thought, the right hand is the seat of power, reinforcing the belief that Jesus reigns. The farewell narrative invites the disciples to engage in mission with confidence grounded in Jesus’ ascension and continued rule.
The ascension is central to Christology: Jesus remains alive and exalted, ruling as Lord. It provides a foundation for the Spirit’s arrival at Pentecost and for the church’s mission to go in Jesus’ name. It also points to the future hope of Jesus’ return, binding the present mission to the promised consummation.
Practical applications:
- Live with the confidence that Jesus rules over all circumstances.
- Embrace mission with the awareness that you act under God’s sovereign authority.
- Maintain expectation of Christ’s return and live in light of that hope.
Cross-References: Acts 1:9-11; Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews 12:1-2