Calculating the 40 Days After Easter in the New Testament

The question of how we know it was 40 days after Easter that Jesus ascended into heaven is rooted in the biblical account of Jesus' life and ministry. According to Acts 1:3, Jesus presented Himself alive to the apostles after His suffering, and He did this over a period of 40 days, during which time He spoke to them about the kingdom of God. Paul writes in Acts 1:9 that after Jesus had said these things, He was taken up to heaven, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. This event is significant because it marks the end of Jesus' earthly ministry and the beginning of the church age.

The 40-day period between Jesus' resurrection and ascension is a deliberate choice by God, emphasizing the importance of Jesus' teachings and the apostles' role as witnesses to His life, death, and resurrection. This period also serves as a transition from Jesus' physical presence on earth to the spiritual presence of the Holy Spirit, who would come to empower the church for its mission.

The ascension of Jesus is a crucial doctrine in Reformed theology, highlighting the exaltation of Christ as the reigning Lord and Savior. It reminds believers that their Savior is now seated at the right hand of God, interceding for them and preparing a place for them in heaven. This truth addresses the heart of the believer, providing comfort, hope, and assurance of their future glorification with Christ.