good men need to have their understandings opened. But that we may have right thoughts of Christ,
there needs no more than to be made to understand the Scriptures.
Verses 50–53
Christ ascended from Bethany, near the Mount of Olives. There was the garden in which his
sufferings began; there he was in his agony. Those that would go to heaven, must ascend thither
from the house of sufferings and sorrows. The disciples did not see him rise out of the grave; his
resurrection could be proved by their seeing him alive afterwards: but they saw him ascend into
heaven; they could not otherwise have a proof of his ascension. He lifted up his hands, and blessed
them. He did not go away in displeasure, but in love, he left a blessing behind him. As he arose,
so he ascended, by his own power. They worshipped him. This fresh display of Christ's glory drew
from them fresh acknowledgments. They returned to Jerusalem with great joy. The glory of Christ
is the joy of all true believers, even while they are here in this world. While waiting for God's
promises, we must go forth to meet them with our praises. And nothing better prepares the mind
for receiving the Holy Ghost. Fears are silenced, sorrows sweetened and allayed, and hopes kept
up. And this is the ground of a Christian's boldness at the throne of grace; yea, the Father's throne
is the throne of grace to us, because it is also the throne of our Mediator, Jesus Christ. Let us rely
on his promises, and plead them. Let us attend his ordinances, praise and bless God for his mercies,
set our affections on things above, and expect the Redeemer's return to complete our happiness.
Amen. Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly.