Where is Jesus Now?
Today we will talk about where Jesus is now. This question may come to mind for many believers as they reflect on their faith and the teachings of Scripture. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ hold significant importance in Christianity, but understanding His current state and role is equally crucial. In this discussion, we’ll journey through the Bible to unveil insights about Jesus’ current location, His relationship with us, and His future role in the establishment of God’s Kingdom. Let’s take a moment to meditate on God’s word as we uncover these truths together.
The Ascension of Jesus
The ascension of Jesus is a cornerstone event that marks a transition in Jesus’ ministry from being physically present on Earth to taking His place in Heaven. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and many others over a period of forty days. During this time, He instructed them on the Kingdom of God and provided them with insights on what was to come (Acts 1:3). The specific event of the ascension is recorded in Acts 1:9-11, where we read that Jesus was taken up before the disciples’ eyes and a cloud hid Him from their sight. This moment not only signifies Jesus’ return to the Father but also emphasizes His authority and divine nature.
The Greek word for “ascension” is ανάληψις (analēpsis) which refers to a raising up or taking away. This term encapsulates both a physical elevation and a spiritual transition to a higher state of existence and authority. Jesus’ ascension is more than just a departure; it reveals His position as exalted and sovereign over all creation (Ephesians 1:20-23).
Historically, the ascension is significant not only to the disciples but also to the early church, which understood that Jesus’ ascension meant the fulfillment of divine plans and the promise of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5). As believers, this understanding provides us with hope, knowing that Jesus is actively involved in our lives.
Through Scripture, we learn that Jesus is now seated at the right hand of God, a position of power and honor (Mark 16:19). In Hebrews 1:3, it states that Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, signifying rest from His redemptive work yet continuing His role as our mediator and advocate.
Jesus is actively involved in our lives as well; Romans 8:34 tells us that He intercedes for us. This means that He advocates for us before the Father, which is incredibly reassuring as it shows His ongoing love and care. This position as our intercessor is a vital aspect of the New Covenant relationship we have with God.
As we align our thoughts with the teachings of Scripture, we also emphasize that this position does not mean Jesus has abandoned us. Rather, He remains intimately connected to those who follow Him. Jesus assured His disciples in John 14:2-3 that He goes to prepare a place for us — illustrating His ongoing relationship with believers. This promise signifies hope for our eternal future with Him.
The Role of Jesus Today
Currently, Jesus performs several vital roles that are critical to our understanding of faith. Among these roles, He is our High Priest, our Advocate, and the King of Kings. In His role as High Priest, as explained in Hebrews 4:14-16, Jesus mediates between God and mankind, allowing for access to the Father through grace. We can approach God with confidence in prayer because of Jesus’ work on our behalf.
As our Advocate, Jesus stands before God, speaking for us when we falter. 1 John 2:1 refers to Jesus as our Advocate with the Father, which brings peace to our hearts, knowing we are covered by His righteousness rather than our frailty.
Moreover, Jesus is also the reigning King. This kingship is affirmed in Revelation 19:16, where He is referred to as “King of kings and Lord of lords.” His sovereignty means He governs all things and His plans for creation are being fulfilled even now.
The Greek word for “King” is βασιλεὺς (basileus), which indicates a ruler with authority. Jesus as the reigning King assures believers that He has ultimate power over every situation we face (Philippians 2:10-11). The angels and all of creation recognize Him, and it is our joy to submit to His authority.
Furthermore, the role of Jesus today also includes preparing a place for believers. In John 14:1-3, He assures us that in His Father’s house are many rooms, reminding us of our future together with Him. Therefore, we live in anticipation of this promise, having the assurance of our eternal home.
It is also important to remember that while Jesus physically reigns in Heaven, His influence and presence through the Holy Spirit permeate the hearts of believers (John 14:16-18). The Holy Spirit serves as our Comforter and Guide, leading us in truth and empowering us to live as Jesus taught. We are never alone in our walk of faith; Jesus promises to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
The Second Coming of Jesus
While we look at where Jesus is now, we must also reflect on the future promise of His return. The Second Coming of Jesus is a cornerstone of Christian eschatology, conveying that Jesus will physically return to Earth one day (Revelation 1:7). This event is highly anticipated as it assures a fulfillment of God’s promises and the culmination of Christ’s redemptive work.
The Greek term “parousia” suggests both the arrival and the presence of Jesus, signifying that His return is not merely a visit but a glorious re-establishment of His kingdom (Matthew 24:30). This event will bring justice and restoration, defeating sin and death forever (Revelation 21:4).
Historically, the early church held strong to the promise of Jesus’ return. They lived in expectation, much like we should today. As followers of Christ, we find motivation in Matthew 25:13, where Jesus encourages vigilance, reminding us that He will return at a time we do not expect.
The promises concerning Jesus’ return affirm that He is not idle but actively engaging with creation, preparing for the culmination of God’s plan. This anticipation fosters hope and encourages Christians to spread the Gospel and live in a manner worthy of His calling (1 Corinthians 15:58). Furthermore, as we read in Acts 1:11, as the angels proclaimed, “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.”
In addition to the promise of His return, Jesus also indicated that those who believe in Him will share in His glory (2 Timothy 2:12). This hope pushes us to remain faithful and to grow in Christ-likeness while we await His return. We can live with purpose, knowing that our lives matter in the grand narrative of God’s plan for humanity.
Final Thoughts
In summary, as we reflect on where Jesus is now, we acknowledge that He is seated at the right hand of God, actively interceding for us and reigning as the King of Kings. His role as our High Priest and Advocate ensures that we are never alone in our journey of faith. Furthermore, the promise of His return provides a future hope that encourages us to remain vigilant and grounded in our relationship with Him. Jesus not only reigned in heaven but He actively shapes our lives today through His Spirit. As we embrace these truths, let’s continue to live in expectation and share the good news of His love with others.
Understanding Jesus’ current position and roles enriches our faith and ignites a passion to live in alignment with His teaching. Let’s cherish this relationship and cling to the promises He has laid out for us.
By meditating on where Jesus is now, we find comfort and strength, knowing that He is always with us, preparing us for an eternal future with Him. Our hope is rooted in His promise, and we can look forward to the day when He returns to establish His kingdom fully. Amen.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4