The Gospel Doesn’t End With the Cross
Think about the way you normally hear the gospel proclaimed.
The focus is on Christ’s work on the cross. Hopefully, the cross and empty tomb are connected. This is the rightful culmination of the gospel message: Jesus died for sinners and conquered sin and death by rising on the third day. Biblically speaking, the cross satisfied the wrath of God and the empty tomb crushed the serpent’s head. Usually, this is where the gospel proclamation ends. But it shouldn't.
Our salvation is secured by Jesus’ work on the cross and empty tomb. But that’s not all he did.
Jesus’ Ascension
Jesus has ascended to glory, where he intercedes for Christians. Even this very day, he is providing for his Church, advocating for them before the Father. This is an element of the gospel we very rarely consider.
John Calvin described the significance of the ascension this way,
“Certainly his promise to be with us to the end of the age has been fulfilled by his ascension, for as by it his body was lifted above all the heavens, so its power and effectiveness reach far beyond all bounds of heaven and earth.”
John Calvin, in his extended exposition on the Apostles’ Creed in the 1541 edition of the Institutes.
Imagine the pastoral implications of the ascension for students! Jesus is praying for them when they don’t know how to pray (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus is with them always (Matthew 28:20). Jesus is reigning in glory over his kingdom (John 18:36). Jesus is victorious and has been enthroned in glory, where he continues to lead and care for his people until he returns to fulfill every promise we read in Scripture. This is good news that we almost never talk about. Consider reading this article by Reformation21 or this theological essay on TGC for more about the ascension.
He didn’t rise from the grave and then disappear, leaving us to figure out how to fulfill the Great Commission. He faithfully and intimately leads us, even today. Students need to hear this comforting and assuring message.
Jesus’ Return
The gospel proclaims salvation for sinners. But we still experience temptation, and give into it. We experience injustice and evil. Our own bodies betray us with sickness, disease, and mental illness. And while we believe that Jesus declared “it is finished” on the cross, we also know that God isn’t done working out our salvation. That work has been secured through the cross and empty tomb, but it won’t be fully applied until Jesus returns.
In his commentary on the angels’ words in Acts 1:11, Calvin says that Jesus’ ascension and return motivate Christians in two ways: first, by motivating us to resist our sinful desires; and second, by strengthening us to endure when we are weary. Again, this is an incredibly helpful pastoral message for students who are surrounded by peers and other influences who would draw them away from Christ and discourage them from remaining steadfast in the faith.
It is good to preach the cross and empty tomb. There’s a reason why Easter is a big deal. But if your gospel ends with the cross, then your gospel is too small.
Students need to know that Jesus is still at work, advocating for them. And he will return again to judge all creation - unto damnation or salvation. It can seem strange and mysterious and like grand speculation to speak about the ascension and return of Christ. But it’s not. It’s part of the gospel we are called to proclaim. Let’s teach what the Bible teaches about Christ’s ascension and return. Nothing more. Nothing less.
