Where is Jesus Today?

Notes taken from Chapter 8 of Vintage Jesus by Mark Driscoll & Breshears

“I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.” - Jesus (John 16:28)

The Bible sheds light on where Jesus is now and what he's up to. As part of the Trinity, Jesus Christ has always been a glorified God. He took a humble step by becoming human, living among us to really connect with our experiences. Throughout his time on Earth, Jesus consistently mentioned that after his death, burial, and resurrection, he'd return to heaven, his original home (John 6:62; 14:2, 12; 16:5, 10, 28; 20:17). This return to glory is in stark contrast to his humble time on Earth.

Unfortunately, many people's understanding of Jesus is limited to his time as a humble human and overlooks his present state of glory. John Crossan aptly described this limited view as seeing Jesus as just a "[hippie] in a world of Augustan yuppies."

But if we were to see Jesus now, we wouldn't find a simple, marginalized man from Galilee. Instead, we'd witness his magnificent state in heaven. Centuries before Jesus's earthly life, Isaiah got a glimpse of this exalted Jesus:

I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the serap him. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts! (Isa. 6:1b–5)

John, one of Jesus' disciples, revealed something remarkable: Isaiah actually saw Jesus Christ (John 12:41). John was more than just a witness to Jesus' humble life on Earth; he also got to see Jesus in his heavenly glory after his ascension. This is vividly described in Revelation 19:11–16, where Jesus is portrayed not as a fragile, humble figure, but as a powerful, warrior king. He's depicted more like a character from classic Westerns, riding into battle against evil forces on a horse, embodying strength and determination.

This vision of Jesus is a far cry from his earlier, earthly existence. He's no longer the one who suffers but is now portrayed as a triumphant figure, ready to conquer unrepentant foes with overwhelming force. This image aligns with how one Christian author likened Jesus' ascension to a victorious soldier returning home from war, poised to return again.

The problem with much of Christology, which focuses on Jesus' nature and work, is that it's often based almost exclusively on the four Gospels. These texts give us an invaluable account of Jesus' life on Earth, but they only show one side of the story – his humble incarnation. They miss out on his exalted state, as vividly depicted in the book of Revelation. This book is crucial for understanding Jesus as he is today in heaven, rather than just as he was on Earth.

Unfortunately, Revelation is often misinterpreted and becomes a topic for bizarre speculations about prophetic symbols and end-times scenarios. This detracts from its main purpose: to reveal Jesus Christ in his current, glorious state (Revelation 1:1).

To fully grasp Jesus' current form, we need to follow his journey from life, death, and resurrection to his ascension and enthronement, as detailed in Revelation. Curiously, there's a lack of focus on this aspect of Jesus' story, which might contribute to the somewhat limited views of him. By tracing the biblical account starting from his final moments on Earth, we can gain a clearer understanding of where Jesus is today.

JESUS PHYSICALLY ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN

After his resurrection, Jesus spent 40 days visibly among people, confirming his victory over sin and death (John 6:62; 14:2, 12; 16:5, 10, 28; 20:17). His final act on Earth, witnessed by his followers, was his ascension to heaven. As they Acts watched, he was lifted up and disappeared into a cloud. This moment was marked by a significant promise made by two men in white robes: Jesus, who ascended to heaven, would return in the same manner (Acts 1:9-11) .

Jesus' journey was a full circle – from the Father to the world and back to the Father. This wasn't just a spiritual journey; it involved his physical body. He entered human history physically, and in the same physical body, he rose and ascended to heaven. Acts 1:11 underlines that Jesus will return in his glorified physical form.

This point challenges some traditional Greek philosophical views that have influenced Christian thought. Greek philosophy often drew a sharp line between the material and spiritual realms, deeming the spiritual as good and the material as bad. This led to the belief that heaven was a place to abandon physical bodies for a purely spiritual existence. However, the biblical view of heaven is vastly different. It's seen as a redeemed creation, free from sin and death, where we exist in our physical bodies in a physical world, alongside Jesus.

Jesus' physical ascension is pivotal as it sets the precedent for our future resurrection, a theme further explored in 1 Corinthians 15. This challenges the notion of shedding our physicality in heaven and emphasizes the redemption and glorification of the physical, in harmony with the spiritual.

JESUS IS IN HEAVEN WITH DEPARTED CHRISTIANS

The ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven is believed by many Christians to have been a significant event not only for Jesus himself but also for the faithful who had passed away before him. According to this interpretation, before Jesus' sacrificial death, God's people were in a sort of temporary waiting place, akin to an airport waiting area. They had their 'flight' booked, so to speak, but couldn't embark on their final journey to heaven until Jesus paved the way.

This belief is partly based on interpretations of Luke 16:19–31 and other biblical passages. The idea is that these faithful souls were awaiting Jesus, who would lead them to heaven following his resurrection and ascension. This concept aligns with Ephesians 4:8, which mentions Jesus ascending and leading a "host of captives."

According to this perspective, Jesus' victorious return to heaven opened the gates of heaven, which were previously closed. Since then, there's no longer a waiting place for God's people after death; they go directly to heaven. In contrast, those who die without faith in Jesus are believed to go to Hades, a place of justice and torment. This place, distinct from heaven, will eventually be cast into a lake of fire at the final judgment for non-Christians, as per Christian eschatology (Luke 16:19–31; Rev. 20:13–14).

These beliefs highlight a fundamental Christian doctrine: the central role of Jesus in not only redeeming the living but also altering the destiny of those who had died before his earthly mission. This theological viewpoint emphasizes the transformative impact of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and ascension on both the living and the dead.

JESUS SITS AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD THE FATHER

In the Bible, the right hand holds a place of significant importance . It's associated with taking oaths (Gen. 14:22; Ezek. 17:18; Dan. 12:7), bestowing blessings (Gen. 48:17–20), and symbolizes righteousness and power (Ps. 48:10). Thus, it's a position of great honor. This context makes it meaningful that, after his ascension, Jesus is described as being seated at the right hand of God the Father (Acts 2:33–36; Eph. 1:20–22; Heb. 1:3; 10:12; 12:1–2;1 Pet. 3:22).

Two specific scriptures emphasize this. Psalm 110:1 has God the Father speaking to God the Son, inviting him to sit at His right hand until His enemies are defeated. Jesus himself refers to this imagery, predicting that from then on, the Son of Man will be seen at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven (Matt. 26:64).

Being seated at God's right hand signifies that Jesus, in his glorified state, is no longer subject to the indignities and suffering he endured during his earthly life. Instead, he now holds a position of infinite authority and honor. This position not only reflects his triumph over death and sin but also his ongoing role in divine governance and the eventual return that is central to Christian eschatology (Matt. 26:64). This imagery of Jesus at God's right hand is a powerful symbol of his exaltation and divine authority.

JESUS SITS ON A THRONE

The concept of a throne is prominently featured throughout the Bible, appearing approximately 196 times. This imagery is more concentrated in the Old Testament with 135 mentions, but it's also significant in the New Testament, with sixty-one instances. Remarkably, out of these sixty-one New Testament references, forty-five occur in the book of Revelation alone, where the throne is a central motif in seventeen of its twenty-two chapters, especially in Revelation 4.

In Revelation, the one who sits on the heavenly throne is identified as the ascended Jesus Christ. The throne symbolizes authority and power, and its use in the context of Jesus emphasizes his divine sovereignty. In the times when the Bible was written, thrones were symbols of power and were reserved for figures of the highest status like kings, priests, and warriors. This symbolism is aptly applied to Jesus in Revelation, where he is depicted in each of these roles:

1. As King: Jesus is portrayed as ruling over all creation from his throne. This position symbolizes his ultimate authority over the universe.

2. As Priest: In his priestly role, Jesus acts as a mediator between humanity and God the Father, bridging the gap created by sin.

3. As Warrior: Jesus is also shown as a triumphant warrior, having achieved victory over Satan, sin, and death. This victorious aspect is crucial in Christian theology, emphasizing Jesus' role in overcoming evil and death.

The throne imagery thus encapsulates Jesus' multifaceted roles and his exalted status in Christian belief. It serves as a powerful reminder of his sovereignty, his mediating role, and his triumph over the forces of evil, encapsulating key aspects of his identity and work according to Christian theology.

JESUS RULES AND REIGNS AS SOVEREIGN, KING, AND LORD

From his heavenly throne, at the right hand of God the Father, Jesus Christ reigns as the supreme authority, embodying the roles of Sovereign, King, and Lord. This concept is central to Christian theology, emphasizing that everything and everyone falls under Jesus' dominion. The Bible underscores this repeatedly, stating that Jesus has sovereign rule over "all things," leaving nothing outside his authority (Matt. 11:27; John 3:35; Acts 10:36; Eph. 1:22; Col. 1:17–18).

This belief in Jesus' unparalleled supremacy, especially in the period following his ascension, was a significant source of controversy and animosity towards early Christians. In both the Old Testament era and in the then-emerging postmodern pluralistic society, there was immense pressure on Jesus' followers to confine his lordship to their personal lives, families, and church communities. However, the scriptural narrative consistently and boldly asserts that Jesus' authority extends far beyond these realms.

According to the Bible, Jesus' lordship encompasses all people, times, places, cultures, objects, and viewpoints. He is portrayed as the preeminent Lord over all, a claim that sets Christianity apart from other religions and belief systems of the time. This declaration of Jesus as the supreme ruler over all earthly and heavenly realms was a radical and defining aspect of early Christian faith, distinguishing it in a world of diverse kings, kingdoms, gods, and religions.

JESUS INTERCEDES AS OUR LIVING GOD-MAN MEDIATOR

The belief that Jesus is not only alive but continues to minister in his glorified, resurrected body is a cornerstone of Christian faith. This view is supported by several biblical passages. In John 14:6, Jesus declares himself the sole pathway to the Father, emphasizing his unique role as the mediator between God and humanity. Similarly, Paul, in 1 Timothy 2:5, reaffirms that Jesus is the only mediator between God and people. Hebrews 7:25 further emphasizes that Jesus lives perpetually to intercede on behalf of humans.

This concept of Jesus as the exclusive mediator is founded on the belief that he is both fully divine and fully human, uniquely qualifying him to bridge the gap between humanity and God. This mediator role is crucial for Christians, as it's through Jesus that they believe one can attain forgiveness of sins and eternal life with God the Father.

However, the exclusivity of Jesus as the sole mediator can be contentious, particularly in a pluralistic society. It is perceived as discriminatory against other religions and beliefs that propose alternative paths or mediators to God. The notion of exclusive mediation through Jesus alone challenges the validity of other spiritual practices and beliefs, like seeking guidance from spirit guides or relying on personal morality and good deeds to connect with the divine.

The idea of discrimination, when applied to religion, can be controversial. Just as people exercise discretion in their homes about who enters and how they behave, the Christian doctrine argues that God, as the owner of heaven, has the right to set the terms of entry and conduct within it. This perspective suggests that while God’s invitation through Jesus is inclusive and open to all, the acceptance of this invitation is a prerequisite for entry into heaven.

This exclusivity was highlighted in a personal conversation I had with a non-Christian friend. When discussing the nature of heaven and who should be allowed in, my friend expressed that being in heaven, under God's rule and in the constant company of Christians, would be undesirable for him. This conversation underscores the idea that heaven, as a place aligned with God's will and Jesus' lordship, might not be universally appealing, and therefore, God’s selective admission to heaven is seen as an act of grace rather than exclusion.

JESUS GRANTS HIS SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY TO CHRISTIANS

The doctrine that believers in Christ are spiritually positioned with Jesus in heavenly places is a profound aspect of Christian theology. Ephesians 2:6 encapsulates this concept, stating that God has "seated us with him [Jesus] in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus." This notion implies that Christians, while physically on Earth, are spiritually co-seated with Christ, sharing in his authority and victory over spiritual forces.

Paul's statement to Christians about judging angels, as mentioned in the Scriptures, underscores the magnitude of this spiritual authority (1 Cor. 6:3). This authority is not just a future promise but is believed to be currently accessible to Christians. The eventual participation of believers in the judgment of angels and demons is a testament to the significant role and authority they are granted in Christ.

In practical terms, this spiritual positioning means that Christians are believed to have authority over Satan and demons, deriving from Jesus' authority. This understanding empowers believers to resist temptations, lies, accusations, and condemnations from Satan. The ascension of Jesus, who now rules over all, is seen as the source of this authority. Therefore, Christians are encouraged to live in the power and victory of Christ, and they are believed to have the authority to command demons in Jesus' name (Eph. 6:10–13; James 4:7;1 Pet. 5:8).

This perspective on spiritual authority reflects a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of faith in Jesus. It suggests that being 'in Christ' is not merely a religious status but carries profound spiritual implications, influencing how believers view their role and authority in both the physical and spiritual realms.

JESUS IS PREPARING A ROOM FOR US IN HIS FATHER’S HOUSE

The ascension of Jesus into heaven sets a template for the future of those who have faith in him, according to Christian beliefs. This doctrine holds that when believers die, their spirit immediately enters the presence of the Lord in heaven (2 Cor. 5:1–8). This belief is rooted in the conviction that there is a profound, continuing relationship between the believer and Jesus even after physical death.

The promise of resurrection is a key aspect of this belief. It's held that, similar to Jesus' resurrection, believers will one day experience their own resurrection. Their spirits will rejoin their bodies, which will be raised from the dead and transformed into glorified, resurrected forms akin to Jesus' resurrected body (1 Cor. 15). This transformation is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity, offering a hope that transcends death.

Jesus' own descriptions of heaven contribute to this understanding. He portrayed heaven as a magnificent home, prepared by God the Father, where each believer has a place. This imagery of heaven as a welcoming, prepared space underscores the idea of an eternal, secure home for believers within God's family, which encompasses the church (John 14:2–3).

This belief not only provides comfort about the afterlife but also reflects the broader Christian narrative of redemption and eternal life. The ascension of Jesus is more than a historical or theological event; it's a symbol of hope and a promise of eternal life and restoration for those who follow him.

JESUS IS ENJOYING AN URBAN PARADISE

When Adam and Eve fell, not only did they suffer, but so did all of creation. It remains beautiful and a testament to God's glory (Ps. 19:1; Rom. 1:20), yet it's under a curse and inherently futile (Rom. 8:19–21). But there's hope: Jesus will return and introduce a new, sin-free creation (Isa. 65:17; 66:22;2 Pet. 3:12–13).

This ties interestingly with the environmental movement. While striving for a greener lifestyle is commendable, these actions alone can't undo the curse or restore creation to its original, Eden-like state. Only Jesus' return can achieve this ultimate renewal.

It's also worth noting that the new creation isn't about rural bliss, which many American Christians idealize. Instead, it's a grand city, ruled by Jesus. The Bible's narrative moves from a garden to a city – starting in Eden and culminating in a heavenly metropolis (Rev. 21:1–2).

Today, urbanization is a global reality, with cities representing dense and diverse populations. Yet, many Christians view cities negatively, associating them with sin. But, in reality, cities, with their concentrated sin, highlight the need for God. Jesus' future unveiling of a heavenly city shows that Christians should embrace and serve in urban areas.

Historically, Christianity thrived in cities. Early Christian movement, led by Paul, was urban-centered. By 300 A.D., city dwellers were predominantly Christian, whereas countryside folk remained largely pagan – the term 'pagan' possibly even originating from a word meaning 'rural dweller.'

Christians should bring the gospel everywhere, but cities, teeming with people, should be a priority. Cities are cultural powerhouses, shaping societies. Christians abandoning cities only to criticize urban-influenced culture is counterproductive. Instead, Christians should engage with cities – living, praying, and serving there until Jesus establishes his heavenly city, the source of all future culture on the new Earth.

JESUS IS WITH US AS WE BRING THE GOSPEL TO THE WORLD

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he left his followers with a profound directive, encapsulating his absolute authority and their mission. He declared, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:18–20). This statement challenges the postmodern perspective that all viewpoints, cultures, and beliefs hold equal weight and authority. Jesus asserts his singular, supreme rule over everything and everyone, without exception.

Today, Jesus reigns supreme, enthroned at God the Father's right hand, receiving worship from angels and saints. He rules over every aspect of life and creation – encompassing all genders, ages, socioeconomic statuses, political affiliations, relationship statuses, and even over spiritual realms, encompassing both angels and demons, and the living and the dead. This dominion extends to every religion, philosophy, and thought.

In practical terms, this means Jesus has authority over every detail of our lives, including our sexual activities, financial decisions, dietary choices, online activities, conversations, travels, attitudes, relationships, entertainment, hobbies, and professional endeavors. His authority is all-encompassing and indisputable.

As believers, we are graced with the love of this glorious and exalted Jesus. Our response is a life of unwavering worship, dedicated service, and bold proclamation, living under his rule until we ultimately stand before him. This theme of living under Jesus' authority and love will be delved into more deeply in the following chapter.

ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT JESUS' ASCENSION

IS JESUS REIGNING AS KING TODAY?

Jesus, anointed as king, is currently in a period akin to that of King David before he began his reign. Just as David was anointed by Samuel in 1 Samuel 16 but didn't immediately ascend to the throne, instead facing years of adversity and evasion, Jesus too, though anointed, isn't reigning as king yet (For example, see Acts 13:33 or Hebrews 5:5). He will only start his rule upon his glorious return to establish his millennial kingdom.

In the interim, as Christians, we recognize Jesus as the rightful king and live under his spiritual authority, much like David's loyal followers who, despite Saul's reign, saw David as the true king. Our citizenship, while earthly, is fundamentally anchored in heaven, under Jesus' kingly authority (Phil. 3:20; Eph. 2:12).

This heavenly authority empowers us in various ways: we can declare forgiveness of sins, resist demonic influences, and experience the power of the Holy Spirit working within us. However, living in allegiance to Jesus in a world still dominated by evil means facing challenges and persecution (John 16:33). Jesus himself acknowledged this reality, offering peace and encouragement with the assurance of his ultimate victory over the world (John 16:33).

We thus live in anticipation of the time when Jesus will physically reign on earth, ushering in an era of justice and righteousness (Amos 5:24). Until then, we're called to reject ungodliness in all its forms, live disciplined and righteous lives, and eagerly await the glorious return of Jesus Christ. He sacrificed himself to redeem us from wickedness and purify us as his people, committed to goodness and his teachings (Titus 2:12–14).

ARE WE UNDER THE POWER OF THE CURSES?

Indeed, as believers, we're no longer under the sway of darkness and its associated curses. The Father has delivered us from the realm of darkness and placed us under the authority of His beloved Son, in the kingdom of light (Col. 1:12–14). Here, in this kingdom, curses hold no true power over us. It's our belief in the authority and dominion of Jesus that nullifies the influence of curses.

This concept can be likened to the relationship between parents and their young children. Just as parents aren't obligated to obey their children, believers aren't bound to the power of curses. Yet, if parents start believing they must obey their young children, they inadvertently give power to a false belief. Similarly, if we believe in the power of curses, we give them authority they don't inherently possess.

Our liberation from curses simply involves asserting our rightful authority as Christians. Jesus is supreme over all powers and authorities, not only in this present age but also in the age to come. The Father has placed everything under Jesus' feet and appointed Him as the head over everything for the church (Eph. 1:19–22). Thus, the cross, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus represent the ultimate triumph over curses and all forms of darkness. This victory liberates humanity from the grasp of curses, enabling us to live in the freedom and authority that comes from being in Christ.

CAN PEOPLE WHO ARE WITH JESUS SEE US?

The interpretation of the "great cloud of witnesses" mentioned in Hebrews 12:1 has sparked debate among theologians and believers. Some suggest that this phrase indicates that those who have passed away are in heaven, observing us like spectators in a cosmic stadium. However, the traditional understanding of the term "witness" in the biblical context is more about individuals who lived their faith boldly and testified about God's glory and faithfulness during their time on earth. These witnesses weren't passive onlookers but active participants in spreading the message of faith (Acts 1:8, 22; 26:16; Rom. 1:9).

F. F. Bruce, a noted biblical scholar, offers a perspective that aligns with this understanding. He emphasizes that the role of these witnesses is not to watch us, but rather to serve as sources of encouragement and inspiration for us. Their lives and testimonies are meant to motivate and guide us in our own faith journey (Acts 1:8, 22; 26:16; Rom. 1:9).

Whether or not those who have gone before us can actually see us now is less important than the legacy they've left behind. The key takeaway from Hebrews 12:1 is the encouragement to run our own race of faith with perseverance and commitment, inspired by the example of those who have faithfully completed their journey. In this way, we honor their legacy and continue the work of the gospel, as if the proverbial baton has been passed to us.

The post consists of notes taken from Chapter 8 of Vintage Jesus by Mark Driscoll & Breshears.

Driscoll, Mark, and Gerry Breshears. Vintage Jesus: Timeless Answers to Timely Questions. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2007.