EGW WritingsLuke 24

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 52, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 52, 1898, par. 10

When Christ instructed His disciples, we read, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.” [Luke 24:45.] While priests and rulers were darkening the minds of men with their counsel, “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men,” Christ said to them, “Thus it is written.” [Matthew 15:9; Luke 24:46.]

13LtMs, Lt 52, 1898, par. 11

“It behoved Christ to suffer, and to die on the cross, and be buried, and rise again the third day, and that repentance and remission of sin should be preached in the name of Jesus Christ among all nations.” [Verses 46, 47.] “And ye are my witnesses,” He says. [Isaiah 43:12.] If the students engage in the work of God, the Holy Spirit will qualify them for it. “Ye shall receive power from on high,” Christ says, “after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you.” [Acts 1:8.] “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” Go, and ye shall move under the hand of Omnipotence. “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 2, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 2, 1891, par. 10

The Captain of the Lord’s host is advancing with His army of heavenly angels to the work. Jesus is standing but a step, as it were, from the completion of His great sacrifice for the world. “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creatures.” [Mark 16:15.] He repeats His injunction over and over again in different forms, that they might after His death and resurrection [and ascension] to heaven, take in the significance of His words. After His resurrection, “then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written and thus it behoved Christ to suffer and to rise again the third day,” and that remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. [Luke 24:45-47.] “Ye shall receive power from on high after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 67, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 67, 1900, par. 10

This is the work God has given His people to do. In his record Mark says, “He said unto them, Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned.” [Mark 16:15, 16.] And Luke bears his testimony saying, “Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:45-47.]

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 3—The Good News to Go Everywhere

TT 16.4

For forty days Christ remained on earth, preparing the disciples for the work before them. He spoke of the prophecies concerning His rejection by the Jews, and His death, showing that every specification had been fulfilled. “Then opened He their understanding,” we read, “that they might understand the Scriptures.” And He added, “Ye are witnesses of these things.” Luke 24:45, 48.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 48, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 48, 1890, par. 31

We need a continual sense of our entire dependence upon the Spirit of God, laying off the fighting armor, putting on the armor of Christ’s righteousness. “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” Luke 24:45-48.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 108, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 108, 1897, par. 10

“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the grave the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:45-49.] “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 95, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 95, 1907, par. 5

Before leaving them the Saviour outlined to His disciples the work in which they were to engage. They did not yet fully comprehend the mission to which as the followers of Christ they had given themselves. “Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:45-49.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 93, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 93, 1899, par. 17

“Then opened he their understanding,” we read of Christ, “that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of the Father unto you, but tarry ye in Jerusalem until ye be imbued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:45-49.]

14LtMs, Lt 93, 1899, par. 19

“And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them, and it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.” [Luke 24:50-52.] “And they went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” [Mark 16:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 92, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 92, 1900, par. 31

“Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:45-47.] This is the seed sowing. This is the sacred trust that has to be given to men. Woe be to any man that seeks to retard the work.

15LtMs, Lt 92, 1900, par. 32

“And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you, but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 49-53.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 47, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, par. 1

“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:45-53.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 187, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 187, 1905, par. 15

“And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:45-53.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]

MR No. 1191—The Church and the Gospel Commission

16MR 38.2

“Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” [Luke 24:46, 47]. The power of God was to go with those who proclaimed the gospel. If those who claim to have a living experience in the things of God had done their appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our world with power and great glory.—Letter 84, 1894, pp. 7-9. (Written November 14, 1894, from “Norfolk Villa,” Prospect Street, Granville NSW, to “Dear Children Edson and Emma.”)

Ye Shall Receive Power

All Members Called to Be Missionaries, June 11

YRP 171.4

Jesus wants every minister to whom He has committed a sacred trust to remember His injunctions, to consider the vastness of His work, and to place the obligation of preaching the gospel to the world upon the large number to whom it belongs. “Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Luke 24:46, 47). The power of God was to go with those that proclaimed the gospel. If those who claim to have a living experience in the things of God had done their appointed duty as God ordained, the whole world would have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our world with power and great glory.—The Home Missionary, August 1, 1896.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 51, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 51, 1894, par. 16

Jesus wants every minister to whom He has committed a sacred trust to remember His injunctions, to consider the vastness of His work, and to place the obligation of preaching the gospel to the world upon the large number to whom it belongs. “Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to arise from the dead upon the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:46, 47.] The power of God was to go with those that proclaimed the gospel. If those who claim to have a living experience in the things of God had done their appointed duty as God ordained, the whole world would have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our world with power and great glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 84, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 84, 1894, par. 21

“Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and arise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name unto all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:46, 47.] The power of God was to go with those who proclaimed the gospel. If those who claim to have a living experience in the things of God had done their appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our world with power and great glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 133, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 133, 1899, par. 10

We want to present the truth in humble simplicity, letting it bear its own savor of life unto life. We are departing from the very principles which should have lived and strengthened in every publishing house from which our publications are issued. Now is the time for us to work. Now is the time for us to put all our forces into solid work in dark, diseased places, which have been neglected for want of funds to carry out the commission of the Lord: “Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:46, 47.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 57, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 57, 1898, par. 4

The Lord’s commission comes to us, Go; proclaim the cross to every creature. “And he said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.” [Luke 24:46-48.] “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 94, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 94, 1899, par. 34

In Christ is our only hope. God has daily victories for His people to gain. After His resurrection Christ said to His disciples, “Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things, and, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from in high.” [Luke 24:46-49.]

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 37—“Even So Send I You”

1SM 264.3

Christ said: “No man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him” (Matthew 11:27). O how dimly the exalted work of the Son of God is comprehended! He held the salvation of the world in His hands. The commission given to the apostles is also given to His followers in this age. “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47). Our Saviour has “all power in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18), and this power is promised unto us. “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 10—Missionary Work at Home and Abroad

8T 56.3

God’s field is the world. Jesus said to His disciples: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:47. Peter said to the believers: “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:39.

Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903

Chapter 7—Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church

PH151 33.1

God’s field is the world. Jesus said to His disciples: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:47. Peter said to the believers, “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” Acts 2:39.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 44, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 44, 1895, par. 5

The commission given to the apostles is also given to His followers in this age. “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:47.] Our Saviour has “all power ... in heaven and in earth,” and this power is promised unto us. “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Matthew 28:18; Acts 1:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 5, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 5, 1895, par. 4

It is not merely the white people in the Southern field that are to receive the message of truth. Methods and plans must be devised to reach the colored people. This kind of work calls for laborers, and the duty rests upon our responsible men to set men at work in that field, and to sustain the work with a portion of the means supplied through tithes and offerings from the believers in all parts of our world. God’s field is the world. Jesus said to his disciples, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:47.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 155, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 155, 1900, par. 15

Some matters are clearly presented to me which I do not fully understand, but I know that I have a testimony to bear to our people East of the Rocky Mountains. Over and over again, these words are in my mind, “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:47.] From this I understand that I have a work to do, beginning at Battle Creek. And if my work is to commence at Battle Creek, it may be best that the conference be held in that place. This I am convinced is the meaning of the light given me. And with this intimation of duty, I will lay aside all fears regarding myself, and prepare for the work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 159, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 159, 1900, par. 12

On Sunday afternoon I spoke again to a well-filled house. During the entire morning I was in conversation and council. I was making my home with Sister Bond, but was invited to take dinner at Brother McClure’s. There I will get a little rest from talking, I thought. But no; I got no rest. Yet notwithstanding my fatigue, the blessing of the Lord came upon me in the meeting. I know that God was present, for rich currents of His grace came to my soul. After I had finished speaking, I was not in the least weary, but was full of hope and courage. This helped me to decide to do the work given me, “beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:47.] I dare not do otherwise than say, “I will go to Battle Creek, trusting in the Lord God of Israel.” I will therefore gladly accept the time you propose, April 2, for the commencement of the meeting. I think this will give us time to issue some small pamphlets. May the Lord help me, is my prayer.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 155, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 155, 1904, par. 78

What kind of a worker was He? He has given it to us to be our privilege to go forth, and He says He will go with us. Read the last chapter and the last verses of Matthew, the last verses of Luke and of John, and you will see that the Lord Jesus Christ gave a commission to teach all nations.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Witnesses for the Cross, June 5

YRP 165.1

And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:48, 49.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 124, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 10

This was His last instruction to His disciples. He had told them His will concerning their work. He had opened their understanding that they might comprehend the Scriptures. He had plainly assured them that they were to begin their work in Jerusalem, the very hardest field they could enter, and were to preach the remission of sins to all nations. “Ye are witnesses of these things”—His trial, His rejection, His crucifixion, His rising from the dead, and being on earth for forty days. “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:48, 49.]

12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 11

“And he led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” [Verses 50, 51.] While the Saviour’s hands were still outstretched in blessing, He was taken from them, and as they stood gazing upward, to catch a last glimpse of their ascending Lord, the sound of the voices of the angels that escorted Him were wafted down to them. “While they looked steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, Why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:10, 11.] “And they ... returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:52.]

Christ Triumphant

The Promise of Divine Power, October 14

CTr 294.1

And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49.

Homeward Bound

Help From the Holy Spirit, November 18

HB 351.4

Christ’s visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness, sealing them for their work. “Behold,” the Saviour said, “I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49.) . . . “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 82, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 82, 1886, par. 1

The disciples were to wait and look for the descent of the Spirit of God and they were to do a great work. They were to carry the truth for that time unto all nations and tongues and peoples. Christ tells them, in (Luke 24:49), “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” I have had great anxiety and burden upon my mind while at Basel and night after night could not sleep longer than three o’clock. I thought of our coming to England, and the matter that was presented before me pressed my mind so that when I awoke there was no more sleep for my eyes. My mind was laboring all the time in regard to the work and its importance in every department, and there stood out distinctly what had been impressed upon my mind. There was not all the manifestation of the Spirit of God that we should have, and we should not feel satisfied unless we have it. God will not accept half-hearted work in His cause, but He would have all performed with an exactitude.

4LtMs, Ms 82, 1886, par. 14

Those who give themselves to the work do not know what true religion is if they begin a spirit of courtship, as though God had called them to do thus. God never has called them; they do not know anything about His work, or they would have nothing like this. It is the invention of the devil to get hold of them, but they must feel that it is a sacred work they have in their hands and they must do it for time and for eternity. When you have the burden of the work upon you, you will be so afraid that you will not give a right answer to every man that asketh you, that you will have no time for this dallying. This lovesick sentimentalism is a curse everywhere, and when you see it in young people, would you think they are fitted for the work? The command was, “Tarry in Jerusalem, until you receive the Holy Ghost.” [Luke 24:49.] You must be so fitted that there will not be any appearance of evil.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 19, 1887

5LtMs, Lt 19, 1887, par. 10

It is the duty of every true follower of Christ to reflect light to the world. God has laid upon us the responsibility of the souls of those who are unsaved. As an ambassador of Christ, I will tell you, brethren, that if you talk more of the merits of Christ, if you engaged more frequently in humble prayer, and said less to your brethren about the failings of others, you would advance in spirituality and be far ahead of what you are now. You must give the precious plant of love some chance to grow. Jesus has said, “By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] He told His disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. [Luke 24:49.] Said He, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] But Paul declares, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” [Philippians 4:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 22, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 22, 1900, par. 1

The book of Acts is a wonderful revelation of God. In it are recorded the acts performed by the apostles under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Just before His ascension Christ said to the disciples, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 60, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 60, 1906, par. 16

Just before our Saviour left this earth, he commissioned His disciples to go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe: In My name they shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” [Mark 16:16-18.] “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.] Power to do what? To preach the gospel and proclaim the conditions of salvation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 178, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, par. 5

Again, just before His final departure from the world, Jesus said to His disciples, “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.] “Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 330, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 330, 1908, par. 11

And what was the promise that was to be immortalized among His disciples?—“Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.] Positive results followed obedience to these commands. “They went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” [Mark 16:20.] As was the work of the disciples, so is our work, first to seek the Lord, then to go forth everywhere presenting the gospel message.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

COL 327.2

Before He left His disciples, Christ “breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” John 20:22. Again He said, “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you.” Luke 24:49. But not until after the ascension was the gift received in its fullness. Not until through faith and prayer the disciples had surrendered themselves fully for His working was the outpouring of the Spirit received. Then in a special sense the goods of heaven were committed to the followers of Christ. “When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.” Ephesians 4:8. “Unto every one of us is given grace, according to the measure of the gift of Christ,” the Spirit “dividing to every man severally as He will.” Ephesians 4:7; 1 Corinthians 12:11. The gifts are already ours in Christ, but their actual possession depends upon our reception of the Spirit of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 34, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 34, 1909, par. 10

Christ declared to His disciples that they were to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. [Mark 16:15.] His life of unselfishness and love was to be copied by them. In His name they were to give to the world unselfish service. The knowledge of His suffering on Calvary’s cross and His unchanging love for mankind was to be made known to all people. And Christ further declared, “Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye shall be endued with power from on high.” [Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 55, 1912

25LtMs, Ms 55, 1912, par. 6

In His great commission, Christ opened before His disciples the world as their field of labor. They were to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. And they were encouraged with the assurance that many would respond to their message. The promise was given them, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1008—A Call to Awake

13MR 46.1

In His great commission, Christ opened before His disciples the world as their field of labor. They were to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. And they were encouraged with the assurance that many would respond to their message. The promise was given them, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” [Acts 1:8]. “But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high” [Luke 24:49].

My Life Today

Tarrying for Power, February 24

ML 59.1

Tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Introduction

PP 22.3

But the Day of Pentecost was in fulfillment of other prophecies besides that of Joel. It fulfilled the words of Christ Himself as well. In His last discourse to His disciples before His crucifixion, He said to them: “I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, ... Even the Spirit of truth.” John 14:16, 17. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things.” Verse 26. “Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guideyou into all truth.” Chapter 16:13. And after Christ had risen from the dead, He said to the disciples, “Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:49.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 2—The Commission

8T 15.1

Giving the disciples further directions, Christ said: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Promised Power

3TT 206.2

Giving the disciples further directions, Christ said: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” “But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49.

From Trials to Triumph

Successful Weapons in the Great Warfare

TT 18.3

Christ’s visible presence was about to be withdrawn, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness. “I send the promise of My Father upon you,” the Saviour said, “but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8.

TT 19.2

When the time came for Christ to ascend to His Father, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany. Here He paused, and they gathered about Him. With His hands outstretched as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them. “While He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” Luke 24:51.

God’s Amazing Grace

The Spirit’s Power, July 3

AG 192.1

Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49.

AG 192.3

In obedience to Christ’s command, they waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father—the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were “continually in the temple, praising and blessing God” (Luke 24:53). They also met together to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus.... Higher and still higher they extended the hand of faith, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us” (Romans 8:34)....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 11, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 11, 1886, par. 1

Luke 24:49-53, Acts 1:9-11. Here is the promise that the very same Jesus that ascended up into heaven should so come in like manner as He went into heaven. And we read that they returned to Jerusalem with great joy. Now this joy was not because they were parted from their Redeemer and they were to no more have His company upon the earth, but the joy was that that Saviour that went up into heaven would come again <in like manner as He ascended,> and they should see Him. As He ascended, His hands were stretched out in blessing <upon> His disciples, as they stood gazing at Him <in the heavens to catch the last sight of their ascending Lord.> Floating down from the clouds come these words, “Lo I am with you even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 128, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 128, 1897, par. 3

Christ’s death on the cross was the cause of the bitterest disappointment to the disciples. But He rose from the dead, and revealed Himself to them. For forty days He remained with them, instructing them preparatory to His departure from them. “Behold I send the promise of my Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:49-53.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 125, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, par. 63

Luke’s testimony is: “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father unto you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:49-53.]

The Story of Redemption

Forty Days With the Disciples

SR 238.1

His anxious followers gladly listened to His teachings, eagerly feasting upon every word which fell from His holy lips. Now they certainly knew that He was the Saviour of the world. His words sank deep into their hearts, and they sorrowed that they must soon be parted from their heavenly Teacher and no longer hear comforting, gracious words from His lips. But again their hearts were warmed with love and exceeding joy, as Jesus told them that He would go and prepare mansions for them and come again and receive them, that they might be ever with Him. He promised also to send the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to guide them into all truth. “And He lifted up His hands, and blessed them.” Luke 24:50.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 45—The First Fruits

1SM 306.1

The work of the Saviour on earth was finished. The time had come for Him to return to His heavenly home. “And he led them [the disciples] out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:50, 51).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 3, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 23

“And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, that while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” [Luke 24:50, 51.] “And while they were steadfastly looking toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken from you into heaven shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:10, 11.]

13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 25

“And they ... returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:52, 53.] What a period of triumph was this for the church. Jesus was not in Joseph’s new tomb. He had arisen, and had ascended to heaven. Heavenly messengers had told [the disciples] that He would come again.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 87—“To My Father, and Your Father”

DA 829.1

The time had come for Christ to ascend to His Father’s throne. As a divine conqueror He was about to return with the trophies of victory to the heavenly courts. Before His death He had declared to His Father, “I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do.” John 17:4. After His resurrection He tarried on earth for a season, that His disciples might become familiar with Him in His risen and glorified body. Now He was ready for the leave-taking. He had authenticated the fact that He was a living Saviour. His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could think of Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.

DA 829.2

As the place of His ascension, Jesus chose the spot so often hallowed by His presence while He dwelt among men. Not Mount Zion, the place of David’s city, not Mount Moriah, the temple site, was to be thus honored. There Christ had been mocked and rejected. There the waves of mercy, still returning in a stronger tide of love, had been beaten back by hearts as hard as rock. Thence Jesus, weary and heart-burdened, had gone forth to find rest in the Mount of Olives. The holy Shekinah, in departing from the first temple, had stood upon the eastern mountain, as if loath to forsake the chosen city; so Christ stood upon Olivet, with yearning heart overlooking Jerusalem. The groves and glens of the mountain had been consecrated by His prayers and tears. Its steeps had echoed the triumphant shouts of the multitude that proclaimed Him king. On its sloping descent He had found a home with Lazarus at Bethany. In the garden of Gethsemane at its foot He had prayed and agonized alone. From this mountain He was to ascend to heaven. Upon its summit His feet will rest when He shall come again. Not as a man of sorrows, but as a glorious and triumphant king He will stand upon Olivet, while Hebrew hallelujahs mingle with Gentile hosannas, and the voices of the redeemed as a mighty host shall swell the acclamation, Crown Him Lord of all!

DA 830.1

Now with the eleven disciples Jesus made His way toward the mountain. As they passed through the gate of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked upon the little company, led by One whom a few weeks before the rulers had condemned and crucified. The disciples knew not that this was to be their last interview with their Master. Jesus spent the time in conversation with them, repeating His former instruction. As they approached Gethsemane, He paused, that they might call to mind the lessons He had given them on the night of His great agony. Again He looked upon the vine by which He had then represented the union of His church with Himself and His Father; again He repeated the truths He had then unfolded. All around Him were reminders of His unrequited love. Even the disciples who were so dear to His heart, had, in the hour of His humiliation, reproached and forsaken Him.

DA 830.2

Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty-three years; He had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; He had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to His throne of glory,—as He reviews the ingratitude of the people He came to save,—will He not withdraw from them His sympathy and love? Will not His affections be centered upon that realm where He is appreciated, and where sinless angels wait to do His bidding? No; His promise to those loved ones whom He leaves on earth is, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20.

DA 830.3

Upon reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from His countenance as He looked lovingly upon them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of the deepest tenderness were the last that fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the awe-stricken disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him from their sight; and the words came back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir.

DA 831.1

While the disciples were still gazing upward, voices addressed them which sounded like richest music. They turned, and saw two angels in the form of men, who spoke to them, saying, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.”

DA 832.1

These angels were of the company that had been waiting in a shining cloud to escort Jesus to His heavenly home. The most exalted of the angel throng, they were the two who had come to the tomb at Christ’s resurrection, and they had been with Him throughout His life on earth. With eager desire all heaven had waited for the end of His tarrying in a world marred by the curse of sin. The time had now come for the heavenly universe to receive their King. Did not the two angels long to join the throng that welcomed Jesus? But in sympathy and love for those whom He had left, they waited to give them comfort. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” Hebrews 1:14.

DA 832.2

Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,—the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father’s throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended. He will come “with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31. Thus will be fulfilled the Lord’s own promise to His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:3. Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope of their Lord’s return.

DA 832.3

When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth. They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ’s resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.

DA 833.1

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven, and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:23, 24. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised.

DA 833.2

All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise and celestial song, attended the joyous train.

DA 833.3

As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the escorting angels,—

DA 833.4

“Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.”

DA 833.5

Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond,—

DA 833.6

“Who is this King of glory?”

DA 833.7

This they say, not because they know not who He is, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise,—

DA 833.8

“The Lord strong and mighty,
The Lord mighty in battle!
Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.”

DA 833.9

Again is heard the challenge, “Who is this King of glory?” for the angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels make reply,—

DA 833.10

“The Lord of hosts;
He is the King of glory.” Psalm 24:7-10.

DA 833.11

Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.

DA 834.1

There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion,—all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.

DA 834.2

But He waves them back. Not yet; He cannot now receive the coronet of glory and the royal robe. He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. He approaches the Father, with whom there is joy over one sinner that repents; who rejoices over one with singing. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, “It is finished,” He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares: Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, O My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, “I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.” John 19:30; 17:24.

DA 834.3

The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. Christ’s toiling, struggling ones on earth are “accepted in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:6. Before the heavenly angels and the representatives of unfallen worlds, they are declared justified. Where He is, there His church shall be. “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10. The Father’s arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” Hebrews 1:6.

DA 834.4

With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life. The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing.” Revelation 5:12.

DA 835.1

Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, “Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever.” Revelation 5:13.

*****

DA 835.2

From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ’s own wonderful words, “I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. “Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 87—Christ’s Triumphal Entry Into Heaven

HLv 552.1

The time had come for Christ to ascend to His Father’s throne as a divine conqueror. After His resurrection He tarried on earth for a season, that His disciples might become familiar with Him in His glorified body. Now He was ready for the leave-taking. His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could think of Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.

HLv 552.2

As the place of ascension, Jesus chose the spot so often hallowed by His presence while He dwelt among men—the Mount of Olives. Its groves and glens had been consecrated by His prayers and tears. In the garden of Gethsemane at its foot He had prayed and agonized alone. On its summit His feet will rest when He shall come again as a glorious king, while Hebrew hallelujahs mingle with Gentile hosannas, and a mighty host shall swell the acclamation, Crown Him Lord of all!

HLv 552.3

Now with the eleven disciples Jesus made His way toward the mountain. As they passed through the gate of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked on the little company, led by One whom a few weeks before the rulers had crucified. The disciples knew not that this was to be their last interview with the Master. Jesus spent the time in conversation with them, repeating His former instruction. As they approached Gethsemane, He paused. He looked on the vine by which He had represented the union of His church with Himself and His Father. Again He repeated the truths He had then unfolded.

HLv 553.1

In the world for thirty-three years, Christ had endured scorn, insult, and mockery. He had been rejected and crucified. Now as He reviewed the ingratitude of the people He came to save, would He withdraw from them His sympathy and love? No; His promise is, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matthew 28:20.

HLv 553.2

On reaching the Mount of Olives, Jesus led the way across the summit to the vicinity of Bethany. Here He paused, and the disciples gathered about Him. He looked lovingly on them. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; words of deep tenderness were the last that fell from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing, as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As He passed upward, the disciples strained for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory hid Him, and the words came back as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him, “I am with you alway.” At the same time there floated down to them the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir.

HLv 553.3

While the disciples were still gazing upward, two angels in the form of men spoke, saying, “Men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.”

HLv 553.4

These angels, the most exalted of the angel throng, were the two who had come to the tomb at Christ’s resurrection. They longed to join the heavenly throng that welcomed Jesus, but in sympathy for those whom He had left, they waited to give them comfort.

HLv 553.5

Christ had ascended in the form of humanity—the same Jesus who had broken bread with them and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet. The angels assured them that the very One whom they had seen go into heaven would come again even as He had ascended. He will come “with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise.” “The Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.” Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 25:31.

HLv 554.1

Thus will be fulfilled the Lord’s own promise to His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am there ye may be also.” John 14:3.

HLv 554.2

After the trial and crucifixion, the disciples’ enemies expected to see on their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was gladness and triumph, their faces aglow with a happiness not born of earth. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ’s resurrection and ascension, and their testimony was received by many.

HLv 554.3

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven and that His sympathies were with them still. They knew that they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests in the name of Jesus. In awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “If you ask anything of the Father, He will give it to you in My name... . Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:23, 24, RSV. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the presence of the Comforter, as Christ had promised.

HLv 554.4

All heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour. As He ascended, He led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection followed. As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge was given by the escorting angels—

Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
And be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.

HLv 555.1

Joyfully the waiting sentinels responded—

Who is this King of glory?

HLv 555.2

This they said, not because they knew not who He was, but because they would hear the answer of exalted praise—

The Lord strong and mighty,
The Lord mighty in battle!
Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.
Psalm 24:7-9.

HLv 555.3

Then the portals of the city of God were opened wide, and the angelic throng swept through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God representing unfallen worlds, were assembled to welcome the Redeemer and to celebrate His triumph.

HLv 555.4

But He waved them back. Not yet. He entered into the presence of His Father. He pointed to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifted His hands bearing the print of nails. He presented those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come from the grave at His second coming. Before the foundations of the earth were laid, Father and Son had clasped hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. When on the cross Christ cried out, “It is finished,” He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declared, Father, I have completed the work of redemption. “I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.” John 17:24.

HLv 556.1

The voice of God proclaimed that justice was satisfied, that Satan was vanquished. Christ’s toiling, struggling ones on earth were “accepted in the beloved.” Ephesians 1:6. The Father’s arms encircled His Son and the word was given, “Let all the angels of God worship him.” Hebrews 1:6.

HLv 556.2

Heaven seemed to overflow with joy and praise. Love had conquered. The lost was found. Heaven rang with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, “Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever.” Revelation 5:13.

HLv 556.3

From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ’s words, “I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.” John 20:17. The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives. “Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25.

Radiant Religion

After the Ascension Great Joy Was Theirs, October 25

RRe 300.1

It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. Luke 24:51, 52.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 115, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, par. 9

When the time came for Christ to ascend to His Father, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany. Here He paused, and they gathered about Him. With hands outstretched in blessings, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them. “It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” [Luke 24:51.]

19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, par. 10

“And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 52, 53.]

The Great Controversy

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC 339.2

And why were the doctrine and preaching of Christ’s second coming so unwelcome to the churches? While to the wicked the advent of the Lord brings woe and desolation, to the righteous it is fraught with joy and hope. This great truth had been the consolation of God’s faithful ones through all the ages; why had it become, like its Author, “a stone of stumbling” and “a rock of offense” to His professed people? It was our Lord Himself who promised His disciples: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:3. It was the compassionate Saviour, who, anticipating the loneliness and sorrow of His followers, commissioned angels to comfort them with the assurance that He would come again in person, even as He went into heaven. As the disciples stood gazing intently upward to catch the last glimpse of Him whom they loved, their attention was arrested by the words: “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11. Hope was kindled afresh by the angels’ message. The disciples “returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” Luke 24:52, 53. They were not rejoicing because Jesus had been separated from them and they were left to struggle with the trials and temptations of the world, but because of the angels’ assurance that He would come again.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 18—An American Reformer

GC88 339.1

And why were the doctrine and preaching of Christ’s second coming so unwelcome to the churches? While to the wicked the advent of the Lord brings woe and desolation, to the righteous it is fraught with joy and hope. This great truth had been the consolation of God’s faithful ones through all the ages; why had it become, like its Author, “a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense” to his professed people? It was our Lord himself who promised his disciples, “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself.” [John 14:3.] It was the compassionate Saviour, who, anticipating the loneliness and sorrow of his followers, commissioned angels to comfort them with the assurance that he would come again in person, even as he went into heaven. As the disciples stood gazing intently upward to catch the last glimpse of him whom they loved, their attention was arrested by the words, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:11.] Hope was kindled afresh by the angels’ message. The disciples “returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:52, 53.] They were not rejoicing because Jesus had been separated from them and they were left to struggle with the trials and temptations of the world, but because of the angels’ assurance that he would come again.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 13—William Miller

4SP 215.2

Why were the doctrine and preaching of Christ’s second coming so offensive to the churches? When Jesus made known to his disciples that he must be separated from them, he said, “I go to prepare a place for you; and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:2, 3.] When he ascended from Olivet, the compassionate Saviour, anticipating the loneliness and sorrow of his followers, commissioned angels to comfort them with the assurance that he would come again in person, even as he went into heaven. As the disciples stood gazing intently upward to catch the last glimpse of him whom they loved, their attention was arrested by the words, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:11.] Hope was kindled afresh by the angels’ message. The disciples “returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:52, 53.] They were not rejoicing because Jesus had been separated from them and they were left to struggle with the trials and temptations of the world, but because of the angels’ assurance that he would come again.

Christ in His Sanctuary

Differing Responses

CIHS 97.1

It was the compassionate Saviour, who, anticipating the loneliness and sorrow of His followers, commissioned angels to comfort them with the assurance that He would come again in person, even as He went into heaven. As the disciples stood gazing intently upward to catch the last glimpse of Him whom they loved, their attention was arrested by the words: “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11. Hope was kindled afresh by the angel’s message. The disciples “returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” Luke 24:52, 53. They were not rejoicing because Jesus had been separated from them and they were left to struggle with the trials and temptations of the world, but because of the angel’s assurance that He would come again.

Last Day Events

A. The Historical Application To the Church as a Whole

LDE 184.1

In obedience to Christ’s command, they [the disciples] waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father—the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were “continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” (Luke 24:53)....

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 4—Pentecost

AA 35.2

In obedience to Christ’s command, they waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father—the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were “continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” Luke 24:53. They also met together to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. They knew that they had a Representative in heaven, an Advocate at the throne of God. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:23, 24. Higher and still higher they extended the hand of faith, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Romans 8:34.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 4—Pentecost: The Apostles Begin Their Work

TT 21.2

In obedience to Christ’s command, they waited in Jerusalem for the outpouring of the Spirit, “continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” Luke 24:53. They knew they had an Advocate at the throne of God. In awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you.” John 16:23. Higher and still higher they extended the hand of faith.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Advocate at the Throne of God, March 1

JNN 69.3

In obedience to Christ’s command, they waited in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father—the outpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait in idleness. The record says that they were “continually in the temple, praising and blessing God” (Luke 24:53). They also met together to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. They knew that they had a Representative in heaven, an Advocate at the throne of God. In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating the assurance, “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full” (John 16:23, 24). Higher and still higher they extended the hand of faith, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us” (Romans 8:34).