ASCENSION (as-sen'shiln). The event spoken of under this title is among those which Christians of every age have contemplated with most profound satisfaction. It was in his ascension that Christ ex hibited the perfect triumph of humanity over every antagonist, whether in itself, or in the circum stances under which it ma)' be supposed to exist. The contemplation of this, the entrance of the Redeemer into glory, inspired the prophets of old with the noblest views of his kingdom. 'Thou hast ascended on high; thou hast led captivity captive; thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them' (Ps. lxviii: 18); and 'Lift up your heads, 0 ye gates; and be ye lifted up, ye everlast ing doors, and the King of glory shall come in'(Ps. XXiV ; 7). Our Saviour, having repeatedly conversed with his apostles after his resurrection, and afford ed them many infallible proofs of its reality, led them from Jerusalem to Bethany, and was raised up to heaven in their sight; there to continue till he shall descend at the last day to judge the quick and the dead.
(1) Evidences. The evidences of this fact were numerous. The disciples saw' him ascend (Acts i:9, io). Two angels testified that lie did ascend (Acts i:11). Stephen, Paul and John saw him in his as cended state (Acts vii: 55, 56; ix; Rev. i). The ascension was demonstrated by the descent of the Holy Ghost (John xvi:7-14; Acts ii: 33); and the terrible overthrow and dispersion of the Jewish nation is still a standing proof of it (John viii: 21; Matt. xxvi: 64).
(2) Time. The time of Christ's ascension was forty days after his resurrection. He continued so many days upon earth that he might give repeated proofs of his resurrection (Acts i :3 ) ; instruct his apostles in everything of importance respecting their office and ministry (Acts i :3) ; and might open to them the Scriptures concerning himself, and renew their commission to preach the Gospel (Acts 1:5, 6: Mark xvi:t5).
(3) Manner. As to the manner of his ascension, it was from NI ount Olivet to heaven, not in appear ance only, but in reality, and that visibly and local ly. It was a real motion of his human nature; sud den, swift, glorious and in a triumphant manner. He was parted from his disciples while he was solemnly blessing them; and multitudes of angels attended him with shouts of praise ( Ps. Ixviii :17 xlvii :5, 6).
(4) Effects. The effects or ends of his ascen sion were: i. To fulfill the types and prophecies concerning it 2. To "appear" as a priest "in the presence of God for us." 3. To take upon him more openly the exercise of his kingly office. 4.