Friends,

I love penning these weekly reflections known as the Pastor’s Cut every week because it allows me the chance to share some ideas that aren’t typically shared in the sermon because they might be “cut for time.” This past Sunday, I mentioned that I would share some thoughts on a few verses in Ephesians 4 that really don’t get the love that I think they should, vv. 7-9. Here’s what Paul says:

Ephesians 4:7-9. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says:

“When he ascended on high,
he took many captives
and gave gifts to his people.”

(What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions?)

What in the world is Paul talking about? Throughout church history, Christians have interpreted this passage in different ways. Some believe that Paul’s reference to Christ’s descent is a reference to his incarnation, when the Son of God left the glory of heaven and entered our existence. Others have understood this passage as a reference to Christ’s descent into the realm of the dead following his crucifixion. This latter interpretation is sometimes associated with the ancient Christian teaching known as the harrowing of hell, in which Christ enters the domain of death and proclaims his victory (this is another fascinating rabbit trail!).

But there’s another interpretation that I find compelling. Paul is quoting from Psalm 68, which pictures God as a victorious King ascending in triumph, leading captives in his procession and receiving the spoils of battle. Paul takes this picture and applies it to Jesus. Through his death and resurrection, Christ has defeated the powers of sin and death. He has ascended victoriously into heaven, far above every earthly and spiritual authority.

But here’s what sets Jesus apart from other kings. The victorious King doesn’t keep the spoils of his victory for himself. He shares them with his people! This helps explain Paul’s unusual language about Christ’s descent. Having ascended into heaven, Christ descends to his people through the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (read Acts 2). The same Jesus who reigns over all creation is actively at work among his people, equipping them to carry his good news into the world.

And what gifts does he give? Paul mentions apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These gifts were essential to the early church’s mission, as the gospel went out from Israel to the nations, bringing Jews and Gentiles together into one body.

Notice the beautiful movement of this passage. Christ ascends in victory, then he descends in generosity. And he gives gifts so that his people might participate in his mission. The victory of Jesus becomes the purpose and vocation of the church!

I love how this applies to us today. The church exists because the risen Christ is still at work in the world, gathering people to himself and building up his body!

Paul says that the goal is for the whole church to grow into maturity, with every member contributing to its life and mission. We are called to speak the truth in love, to serve one another, and to grow together into the likeness of Jesus so the world may know his name.

That’s a wonderful reminder for us at Brockport FMC. Our ministries, our acts of service, our efforts to reach our neighbors, and our life together are ways we participate in the ongoing mission of our victorious King. The same Jesus who conquered death and ascended into heaven has not abandoned his people. Through his Spirit, he continues to equip and strengthen us for the work he has called us to do.

Christ has won the victory. And now he invites us to share in it.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Ben