Jesus Shall Reign, How Jesus' Ascension Empowers the Church

What we are given here is a historical but intensely theological message. First, Mark shows that what Jesus predicted in the previous four verses did come to pass. Secondly, by adding the details of Jesus’ ascension back to heaven and His royal enthronement Mark ends his Account with a theological framework for the Church. Mark’s unique ending gives Christ’s Church more than a commandment to evangelize the world. He gives us the reality upon which our Great Commission rests. Jesus is Lord; He has won the battle; He’s returned to His royal palace and has been seated upon His majestic throne. His first act after His enthronement was to give the Gift of His Holy Spirit to His special Messengers, next, He sent them forth to announce His sovereignty to the entire world being confirmed by signs and miracles.