Thou Hast Ascended on High (Psalm 68:18)

2023-11-21

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. Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. (Psalm 68:18-19)

Here is a prophecy about the Lord’s ascension to heaven. Jesus Christ’s ascension demonstrated His Father’s acceptance. He “led captivity captive.” What was meant for evil against Him, He turned into a great victory. Jesus’ crucifixion looked like a major loss, but it became how the Lord saved the human race.

Not only this, but the Lord Jesus’ ascension allowed for the coming of the Spirit, who gave spiritual gifts to those who believe on Him. “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you” (John 16:7). And again, “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men” (Ephesians 4:7-8).

These good gifts from above were given to people who once were in rebellion. Consider we Gentile believers who beforehand were alienated from God and ensnared by pagan wickedness. Here we are now, redeemed and transformed by the grace of God. The God of salvation has blessed us with every Spiritual blessing, now complete in Christ, accepted of Him, and secured by Him.

This new nation, the body of Christ, now equipped with Spiritual gifts, is the witness of His goodness. We are here to declare His glory and His salvation.