The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey
Week 13: Part Three, Chapter 12 — "Ascension: A Long Farewell"
Read Chapter 12 of The Jesus I Never Knew. Key passages: Acts 1:1–11; John 14:15–27; 16:5–15; Hebrews 7:25.
Previewing Week 13 of The Jesus I Never Knew
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
The Ascension is perhaps the least-discussed event in Christian theology — and Yancey argues that overlooking it leaves a significant hole in our understanding of what Jesus is doing right now.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Yancey notes that the Ascension is theologically awkward — Jesus leaves, and the disciples are told to wait. Why do you think the Ascension receives so little attention in contemporary Christianity? What do we lose by treating it as merely a transition scene between the resurrection and Pentecost?
2.Jesus tells his disciples it is "for your good" that he goes away (John 16:7), because otherwise the Spirit cannot come. This is a stunning claim — that the ongoing presence of the Spirit is better than the physical presence of Jesus in first-century Palestine. Do you actually believe that? What would it mean to live as though it were true?
3.Yancey reflects on what Jesus is doing right now — interceding for us at the right hand of the Father (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34). What does it mean to you personally that Jesus is currently, at this moment, advocating for you before God? How does that change your prayer life?