The BIG Picture (Study)

The Stages of Christ's Ascension and Return (Part 4) In Part 3 of this post series , we had a look at the continued ascension of Jesus from the clouds (the position in which Stephen saw Jesus in Acts 7:55-56 ), to the position in light which He occupied according to  1 Tim.6:16 . Between these two scripture references, it clearly identified Jesus in two different places. However, I won't be dogmatic and claim that these two positions are separated by the "waters above the firmament", but based on my current convictions, I'll illustrate it as such in my diagram below. (The purpose of the diagram is simply to show the eventual symmetry between Christ's ascension and return. I don't claim it to be accurate in depicting locations or positions in the heavenly ascension).  In this 'short' post, I'd like to identify one final position, as quoted from scripture, in which Jesus ascended to. This I believe is the throne of God and the ultimate position...

Points to note regarding the above quote: We are placed 'in Christ' when we respond in faith to the grace gospel and are saved. This quote only references who we are 'In Christ' (which defines our perfect positional stance before God). This quote does not reference our earthly condition, in our flesh, which is still under sin. This is where 'Christ in us' systematically sanctifies us, transforming us daily by His Word and Spirit to increased righteousness and holiness. We deal with this detail in other posts. Click here for more on the topic

Q-A: What does it REALLY mean to be 'In Christ'? Read the shaded verses below slowly and carefully and then compare the first two verses to the last three. There is a HUGE difference in how Paul describes the believers at Corinth. 1 Cor 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, 1 Cor 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God —and righteousness and sanctification and redemption — 1 Cor 3:3 ... for you are still carnal . For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? 1 Cor 5:1 It is actually reported that there is fornication among you , and such sexual immorality as is not even named among the Gentiles—that a man has his father's wife! 1 Cor 5:2 And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done th...