Introduction:   We are reading here of the ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. He carried his apostles on top of the Mount of Olives and gave them some final commandments and words of encouragement. This is some forty days after his resurrection. He has already calmed the fears of Peter over the three denials. He has eliminated the doubt of Thomas. He has mended the broken heart of Mary Magdalene. He has set afire the hearts of the two men on the road to Emmaus. He has given the marching orders to the first twelve leaders of the church, and he has made some promises. He knows that there is a great work for them to do, and they cannot do it alone. So he leaves with them some promises that will help them and encourage them along the way.

He Left But:

I.          HE PROMISED CONVICTION

The Apostles were not charged with the responsibility of pricking the hearts of those who heard their Gospel. They were simply charged to preach it. This new conviction power that would come was the Holy Ghost (John 16:7ff.). He would:

A.        Testify of the Son

The testimony of the Holy Ghost in the hearts of the Apostles would come forth in their testimony to others. He does not glorify himself, but He glorifies the son (John 16:14).

B.        Reprove the World of Sin

It is still the Holy Ghost that reproves of sin.

C.        Guide us in the Truth:

Anyone who declares that the Holy Ghost led them to do something that is against the Bible is a heretic. He only leads in truth.

D.        Teach the Saints:

He teaches us to worship, to Trust, to Persevere.

E.         Indwell the Saints:

This person of the Godhead dwells in us!

II.        HE PROMISED COMFORT

This promise was not one of worldly pleasures or comfort, but it was one of comfort for the soul. He promised us comfort:

A.        In the Spirit (John 14:16, 18, 26)

He would comfort them with his everlasting presence in prison, persecution, prosecution, perils of all types, and passing through death.

B.        In the Power of God (Acts 1:5, 8)

They received power. This was a comfort to them  time and again as God displayed this power to their benefit and his glory.

C.        In the Message

They had something worth putting their lives on the line for.

III.       HE PROMISED HE’D COME AGAIN (John 14:1)

They knew that he was coming again. Yes he left, but he gave us a promise that he will return! When he comes it will be:

A.        Suddenly: I Thess 5:2 “thief in the night.”

B.        In Glory: Matthew 24:30

C.        With A Shout: I Thess 4:16

D.        To Reward the Saints: Rev. 19:7-9

Conclusion: He did go away, but he promised that he would yet abide through his spirit and come again soon. I am basking in his spirit, and I am waiting for his call. He promised it, and I believe it!