Catechisma

Lord’s Day 18

Q49. How does Christ going up to heaven help us?

First, he speaks to his Father in heaven for us. Second, we have our own human nature in heaven — a sure promise that Christ our head will bring us, his people, to be with him there. Third, he sends his Spirit to us on earth as a further promise. By the Spirit's power, we set our hearts on the things above where Christ is, sitting at God's right hand.

Scripture Proofs — King James Version

1

Romans 8:34

Who is he that condemneth? 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.

1 John 2:1

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

2

John 14:2

In my Father's house are many mansions: if not , I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

John 17:24

Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

Ephesians 2:4–6

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised up together, and made sit together in heavenly in Christ Jesus:

3

John 14:16

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

Acts 2:33

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

2 Corinthians 1:21–22

Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

2 Corinthians 5:5

Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.

4

Colossians 3:1–4

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Philippians 3:14, 20

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

Parent Guide

Discuss this question together

Discussion Questions

  1. 1

    What are the three ways Christ's ascension helps us?

  2. 2

    What does it mean that our own human nature is already in heaven through Christ?

  3. 3

    How does the Holy Spirit help you set your heart on things above?

Illustration

When a family member saves a seat for you at a crowded table, you know you belong there even before you sit down. Jesus has taken your human nature into heaven. Your place is reserved, and one day you will take your seat.

Application

This week, when you are tempted to think only about what is happening right in front of you, lift your thoughts to heaven. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you remember where Christ is and that you will be there too.