Acts 1:11
Verse
Context
The Ascension
10They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them.11“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Gazing up into heaven - Not to the top of a mountain, to which an unbridled fancy, influenced by infidelity, would intimate he had ascended, and not to heaven. This same Jesus - Clothed in human nature, shall so come in like manner - with the same body, descending from heaven by his sovereign and all-controlling power, as ye have seen him go into heaven. Thus shall he come again to judge the quick and the dead. It was a very ancient opinion among Christians, that when Christ should come again to judge the world he would make his appearance on Mount Olivet. Some think that his coming again to destroy the Jewish nation is what the angels refer to. See a connected account of the different appearances of Christ at the end of this chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven, &c.--"as if your now glorified Head were gone from you never to return: He is coming again; not another, but 'this same Jesus'; and 'as ye have seen Him go, in the like manner shall He come'--as personally, as visibly, as gloriously; and let the joyful expectation of this coming swallow up the sorrow of that departure."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which also said, ye men of Galilee,.... And which was said by them, not to reproach them with their country, but partly to let them know that they knew them, who they were, and from whence they came; and partly to observe the rich and distinguishing grace of God in choosing such mean and contemptible persons to be the apostles of Christ, and eyewitnesses of his majesty: why stand ye gazing up into heaven? reproving them for their curiosity in looking after Christ with their bodily eyes, who was no more in common to be seen this way, but with an eye of faith; and for their desire after his corporeal presence, which they were not to look for; and as if they expected he would return again immediately, whereas his return will not be till the end of the world: and besides, they were not to remain on that spot, or stand gazing there; they were to go to Jerusalem, and abide there, as Christ had ordered, till they should receive the Holy Spirit in an extraordinary way; and then they were to preach a crucified Christ, and declare that he was risen from the dead, and was gone to heaven, and was ordained to be the Judge of quick and dead, This same Jesus; and not another; the same in person, in body and soul: which is taken up from you into heaven; who was taken up in a cloud out of their sight, and received into heaven, where he will be till the times of the restitution of all things; and which might be matter of grief to them, because of the loss of his bodily presence; though it should have been rather joyful to them, since he was gone to the Father, and as their forerunner, to prepare a place, and make intercession for them: shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven; he shall come in the same flesh, in the same human nature; he shall come in the clouds of heaven, and shall be attended with his mighty angels, as he now was; he shall descend himself in person, as he now ascended in person; and as he went up with a shout, and with the sound of a trumpet, see Psa 47:5 so he shall descend with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and the trump of God; and, it may be, he shall descend upon the very spot from whence he ascended; see Zac 14:4 and it is a notion of the Jews, that the resurrection of the Israelites will be there: they say (m), that "when the dead shall live, the Mount of Olives shall be cleaved asunder, and all the dead of Israel shall come out from under it; yea, even the righteous which die in captivity shall pass through a subterranean cavern, and come out from under the Mount of Olives. (m) Targum in Cant. viii. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:11 Jesus promised to return from heaven in the same way (see Matt 24:30; Mark 13:26; John 14:3). Jesus has gone to heaven to prepare the place for his followers (John 12:26; 14:1-4; 2 Cor 5:4; Phil 3:21; Heb 6:20).
Acts 1:11
The Ascension
10They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them.11“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
I Will Come Again
By Leonard Ravenhill7.0K1:06:20Second ComingMAT 28:6JHN 14:3JHN 19:30ACT 1:111TH 4:162TI 3:1REV 22:17REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the promise given by Jesus Christ that he will come again. He highlights the significance of Jesus' words, "I will come again and receive you unto myself." The preacher emphasizes the fear and panic that exists in the world, but reminds the audience that Jesus' promise brings hope and assurance. He also references a scripture from Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians, which describes the Lord descending from heaven with a shout and the voice of the archangel. The preacher concludes by highlighting the darkness and brokenness of the world, but encourages the audience to trust in Jesus' promise of his return.
The End Times
By A.W. Tozer4.4K37:25End TimesMAT 6:33MAT 24:14MAT 24:36ACT 1:111TH 4:16REV 21:4REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not conforming to the moral code of the world, but rather following the moral code set by God. He warns that the majority in spiritual matters is often wrong and encourages listeners to seek guidance from the Bible and prayer. The preacher also discusses the prevalence of war and betrayal in the world, highlighting the destructive nature of these actions. However, he reassures the audience that God is in control and will bring peace. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of spreading the message of the kingdom of God to all nations.
Jesus Is Coming
By David Wilkerson4.1K59:05Second ComingMAT 6:33MAT 24:36JHN 14:28ACT 1:4ACT 1:111TH 2:22TH 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of the coming of the Lord and its significance for Christians. He emphasizes that for those who are not right with God, the idea of the Lord's return can be fearful, but for those who are walking in righteousness, it brings great comfort. The preacher then directs the audience to the book of Acts, specifically chapter 1, where he reads a verse about the disciples being commanded to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. He mentions a book that he disagrees with, stating that it misses the whole point of the coming of the Lord. The preacher shares personal experiences of panic and confusion about the Lord's return, highlighting the need for a proper understanding of this event.
Eternally Fixed Sexual Identity for an Age of Plastic Sexuality
By Daniel R. Heimbach1.6K54:03SexualityGEN 1:27MAT 22:23ACT 1:11ACT 2:321CO 6:13In this sermon, the speaker addresses the challenge of the attack on the family and its impact on Christians and their witness. The speaker discusses the transformation of intimacy claims in today's society, where sexuality has become more accessible and diverse. Drawing from Augustine's work, the speaker presents four Biblically sound theological reasons for asserting an essentialist view of human sexuality. These reasons include the record of creation, where God created Adam and Eve as embodied spirits, and the promise of bodily resurrection and eternal life in an embodied state.
(Through the Bible) Acts 3-4
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:27:39ACT 1:11ACT 3:22ACT 3:25ACT 4:12ACT 4:21ACT 4:23ACT 4:31In this sermon, the speaker begins by offering a blessing to the audience, asking for the Lord's presence and protection. He emphasizes the importance of being a true witness for Jesus, not just through words, but through living a life that reflects His love and grace. The speaker shares a story about a fraudulent evangelist who claimed people needed to have faith in him rather than in God, highlighting the importance of placing our faith in God alone. He also mentions a personal story of a man who had a powerful conversion experience and the impact it had on his life. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the early believers' unity and the power of their witness to the resurrection of Jesus, accompanied by signs, wonders, and great grace.
(2 Thessalonians) the Church, the Tribulation, and the Anti-Christ
By Brian Brodersen1.5K1:00:14ACT 1:112TH 2:132TH 2:15REV 4:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God's glory and how he has chosen to share it with humanity through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the grace, goodness, love, and mercy of God in forgiving and accepting former rebels. The preacher also mentions the importance of holding onto the traditions taught by the apostles. The sermon then shifts to the topic of the rapture, referencing the book of Revelation and describing John's vision of being called up to heaven. The preacher warns of the impending judgment on Earth and highlights the deception that can lead people astray.
Middle East Crisis: The Last Jihad
By Jack Hibbs1.1K1:05:51EZK 37:1EZK 39:12MAT 24:6ACT 1:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the current state of the world and the ongoing conflict between different ideologies. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible in a personal and futuristic manner. The preacher also highlights the significance of the ceasefire in relation to biblical prophecies. He then presents video clips showing Islamic demonstrations and discusses the teachings of Muhammad regarding training children to kill the enemy. The sermon concludes with a warning about the threat faced by a woman named Wafa Sultan, who is in hiding due to a fatwa on her life.
Easter conf.shannon Hills 02
By Welcome Detweiler92431:57MRK 16:19LUK 24:50ACT 1:6ACT 1:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing the safety that comes from having a relationship with God. He highlights that many people who appear to have it all together are actually living in fear and uncertainty. The preacher encourages the audience to share the message of salvation and anticipate the future with hope. He reminds them that even though the task may seem overwhelming, everyone has a role to play in spreading the gospel until Jesus returns. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the upcoming service and a call to continue seeking God's will.
Time to Travail
By Ralph Sexton90520:22PSA 30:5PSA 150:6ISA 13:8MAT 6:33JHN 14:3ACT 1:111CO 12:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency for believers to recognize the gravity of their mission. He compares the experience of a woman in labor, facing fear and pain, to the journey of believers in bringing new life into the world. The preacher highlights the need for the church to prioritize the power of God and the salvation of souls over trivial conversations and distractions. He reminds the congregation that God has the power to send revival, save loved ones, and heal the sick. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the victory of Jesus over death, hell, and the grave, and the authority believers have through his name.
Believers Conference 1970-03 John 11;33
By Stan Ford86128:55ConferenceJHN 11:33JHN 12:27JHN 13:21JHN 14:1ACT 1:11REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering that Jesus Christ may come again, which should motivate believers to witness and live faithfully. The preacher highlights four things that will happen when Jesus comes: raising the believer, removing the believer, reuniting the believer, and rewarding the believer. The sermon references the Gospel of John, particularly chapters 11 and 14. The preacher also acknowledges that there are numerous mistakes and misconceptions about the coming of the Lord, but encourages the audience to focus on the message and promises given in the Word of God.
Living a Sacramental Life
By K.P. Yohannan66527:40SacramentalMAT 6:33ACT 1:11In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the significance of Jesus' coming into the world during the Advent season. He emphasizes the need for individuals to engage their five senses and actively remember God's presence in their lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of reading the Bible for transformation rather than mere knowledge. He concludes by discussing the hope and forgiveness that Jesus brings, comparing it to the futility of drinking saltwater to quench one's thirst.
The Man Child
By Stephen Kaung5211:04:48MAT 24:39ACT 1:11REV 12:1This sermon delves into Revelation chapter 12, exploring the symbolic imagery of a woman, a great red dragon, and a man-child, representing the church, Satan, and the overcomers respectively. It emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus and the need for believers to be prepared as overcomers who overcome Satan by the blood of the Lamb, the word of their testimony, and by not loving their soul life even unto death.
Testimonies 26.9.68
By George Verwer4661:14:30MissionsMAT 6:19MAT 6:33MRK 8:36ACT 1:11ROM 10:141JN 3:16REV 22:12In this sermon transcript, the speaker, Johan van Dam, shares his personal journey of faith and the impact of two books, "The Normal Christian Life" and "The Calvary Road," on his spiritual growth. After joining a traveling team and ministering in Spain for four years, he experienced a profound spiritual change and a new understanding of the Christian life. He emphasizes the importance of being with fellow believers and ministering within the temple, even though it may be unseen. The speaker also briefly mentions his background, including growing up in a boisterous family and serving in the army, before finding salvation and hungering for spiritual reality.
Week of Meetings 02 Mary at the Sepulchre
By James K. Boswell43337:47MAT 28:6LUK 24:45JHN 20:2ACT 1:11COL 1:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as Christians, we should not live defeated lives because there is complete victory in Christ Jesus. The preacher shares personal experiences and testimonies of how Jesus has brought joy and healing into their lives. They encourage the congregation to yield themselves to God and seek spiritual transformation through a relationship with Jesus. The sermon concludes with an invitation for those who are concerned about spiritual matters to stay and engage in further discussion and reflection.
Week of Meetings 01 the Precious Blood
By James K. Boswell41637:52JHN 20:15JHN 20:29ACT 1:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead as recorded in the Gospel of John. The preacher emphasizes the love and compassion of Jesus towards Martha and Mary, who were grieving the death of their brother Lazarus. The preacher highlights how Jesus not only raised Lazarus from the dead but also restored him to his mother, showing his understanding and sympathy. The sermon encourages the listeners to reflect on their own relationship with Jesus and to make sure they are fully committed to following him.
The Lord's Coming, as It Will Affect the Assembly
By H.J. Vine0ACT 1:11EPH 1:13PHP 1:231TH 4:152TH 3:52PE 3:15REV 3:10REV 19:7REV 21:2H.J. Vine preaches on the imminent return of the Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing that He Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, and believers will be caught up to meet Him in the air. The joy of the Lord in having His redeemed ones with Him will be beyond measure, fulfilling His sufferings on the cross. Despite uncertainties and fears, believers are encouraged to trust in Christ's perfect love that casts out all fear and eagerly await His coming to take them to be with Him forever.
Looking Unto Jesus
By J.C. Ryle0Faith in ChristPractical ChristianityISA 53:6JHN 13:15ACT 1:11ROM 5:10ROM 8:341CO 11:1PHP 3:20HEB 7:25HEB 12:21JN 2:6J.C. Ryle emphasizes the importance of 'Looking Unto Jesus' as the foundation of a vibrant and practical Christianity. He argues that true faith must extend beyond mere Sunday observance and should permeate every aspect of daily life, providing strength, peace, and guidance through Christ's death, intercession, example, and anticipated return. Ryle highlights that a genuine relationship with Jesus is essential for overcoming life's challenges and achieving spiritual growth. He encourages believers to focus on Christ as their source of hope and to emulate His life as a model for their own. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a return to the simplicity and sincerity of early Christianity, centered on the person of Jesus.
Parable of the Pounds (Part 1)
By J.C. Ryle0Understanding ProphecyChrist's AdventsPSA 22:16ISA 53:5DAN 9:26MIC 5:2ZEC 9:9MAT 24:30LUK 19:11ACT 1:11ROM 11:26REV 1:7J.C. Ryle discusses the Parable of the Pounds, emphasizing the misunderstanding of Jesus' disciples regarding the immediate establishment of God's kingdom. He highlights their error in overlooking the necessity of Christ's suffering before His glory, paralleling it with contemporary Christians who may misinterpret prophecies about Christ's second coming. Ryle urges believers to approach Old Testament prophecies with a literal understanding, warning against the dangers of spiritualizing texts that refer to Israel and Jerusalem. He calls for a renewed examination of prophetic scriptures, advocating for a balanced view of both Christ's first and second advents. Ultimately, Ryle stresses the importance of recognizing the literal fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the implications for the Church today.
Our Brilliant Future: "Where’s It All Leading?"
By Greg Herrick0ISA 46:10MAT 24:21MAT 25:46JHN 5:28ACT 1:11ROM 11:26PHP 3:20REV 20:1Greg Herrick preaches on the study of the end times, emphasizing the differences and agreements among Bible-believing Christians. The sermon delves into crucial areas of agreement such as the second coming of Christ, the response to His coming, the resurrection of all peoples, and the final state of the wicked and the righteous. Points of disagreement include the rapture, the millennial kingdom, the tribulation period, and the role of national Israel in the end times.
Of the Second Coming of Christ, and His Personal Appearance.
By John Gill0Hope and VigilanceSecond Coming Of ChristZEC 14:4MAT 24:30JHN 14:2ACT 1:111CO 15:521TH 4:162TI 4:1TIT 2:13HEB 9:28REV 1:7John Gill emphasizes the certainty and significance of the Second Coming of Christ, detailing how it will precede the resurrection of the just and the establishment of His kingdom. He explains that Christ's return will be marked by great glory and will fulfill prophecies from the patriarchs and prophets, confirming its inevitability. Gill highlights the dual nature of Christ's coming, both in judgment and in the establishment of His reign, and encourages believers to remain vigilant and prepared for this event. He also discusses the signs that will precede His return and the ultimate purpose of His coming, which includes the full realization of salvation for the saints and the destruction of evil. The sermon serves as a reminder of the hope and expectation that believers should hold regarding Christ's return.
Luke 17:28
By Chuck Smith0Second Coming Of ChristSpiritual VigilanceMAT 24:37JHN 14:3ACT 1:11REV 22:12Chuck Smith emphasizes the certainty of Jesus' second coming, highlighting that it is a promise found throughout both the Old and New Testaments. He draws parallels between the conditions of Sodom and today's society, noting the excessive focus on materialism, gluttony, and sexual immorality. Smith warns that just as Sodom was marked by spiritual lethargy, so too is the current age, urging believers to remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's return. He reminds the congregation of Christ's promise, 'This same Jesus shall come again in like manner,' and encourages them to live in anticipation of His coming.
Voices That Despair of Revival
By John R. Rice02CH 7:14MAT 9:36LUK 10:1JHN 4:34ACT 1:8ACT 1:111CO 1:21GAL 3:24EPH 4:11John R. Rice preaches about the possibility of having revival now, emphasizing the urgent need for Spirit-filled workers to reach the lost. Drawing from Matthew 9:36-38, he highlights Jesus' compassion for the multitudes and His call for more laborers to bring in the harvest. Rice stresses that the issue is not with the harvest, which is plentiful, but with the laborers who are few. He challenges believers to pray for God to send forth more workers into His harvest, just as Jesus instructed His disciples.
Jesus Is Coming to Earth Again! What if It Was Today?
By Paris Reidhead0Readiness for His ComingImminent Return of ChristLUK 18:8ACT 1:111CO 15:502CO 5:101TH 4:16TIT 2:131JN 3:2REV 19:11REV 21:4REV 22:20Paris Reidhead emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus Christ, urging believers to live in anticipation and readiness for His coming. He outlines the significance of Christ's return, highlighting the power and love with which He will reign, the gathering of His chosen Bride, and the ultimate defeat of Satan. Reidhead challenges the congregation to reflect on their faith and readiness, asking if they would be found faithful if Christ were to return today. He encourages a life of purity and expectation, reminding them of the joy and glory that awaits the faithful at His coming.
The Ascension and the Second Advent Practically Considered
By C.H. Spurgeon0The AscensionThe Second ComingMAT 28:19LUK 24:51ACT 1:11C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of four pivotal events in Christ's life: His birth, death, resurrection, and ascension, which collectively lead to the anticipation of His second coming. He encourages believers to reflect on these events, recognizing that each one points towards the glorious return of Jesus, who will come again in the same manner as He ascended. Spurgeon gently admonishes the disciples for their prolonged gazing into heaven, urging them instead to engage in active service and fulfill their mission on earth. He reassures them that 'this same Jesus' who ascended is alive and will return, encouraging a life of faith and action in preparation for His coming. The sermon calls for a balance between contemplation and active service, reminding believers to focus on their responsibilities while eagerly awaiting Christ's return.
The Fact of the Redeemer's Return
By A.W. Pink0Hope and AnticipationThe Second Coming of ChristZEC 14:4MAL 4:2JHN 14:3ACT 1:11ROM 5:201CO 11:262CO 5:211TH 4:16HEB 10:37REV 22:20A.W. Pink emphasizes the certainty of the Redeemer's return, outlining three key facts from the New Testament: Christ's first coming, the Holy Spirit's presence, and the promise of His return. He explains that Christ's return will occur in two stages: first, to gather His saints, and second, to establish His kingdom on earth. Pink highlights the significance of this promise for both the church and the world, urging believers to await this glorious event with hope and anticipation. He draws parallels between the lives of Joseph and Solomon as types of Christ's return, illustrating the fulfillment of God's promises throughout Scripture.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Gazing up into heaven - Not to the top of a mountain, to which an unbridled fancy, influenced by infidelity, would intimate he had ascended, and not to heaven. This same Jesus - Clothed in human nature, shall so come in like manner - with the same body, descending from heaven by his sovereign and all-controlling power, as ye have seen him go into heaven. Thus shall he come again to judge the quick and the dead. It was a very ancient opinion among Christians, that when Christ should come again to judge the world he would make his appearance on Mount Olivet. Some think that his coming again to destroy the Jewish nation is what the angels refer to. See a connected account of the different appearances of Christ at the end of this chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven, &c.--"as if your now glorified Head were gone from you never to return: He is coming again; not another, but 'this same Jesus'; and 'as ye have seen Him go, in the like manner shall He come'--as personally, as visibly, as gloriously; and let the joyful expectation of this coming swallow up the sorrow of that departure."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which also said, ye men of Galilee,.... And which was said by them, not to reproach them with their country, but partly to let them know that they knew them, who they were, and from whence they came; and partly to observe the rich and distinguishing grace of God in choosing such mean and contemptible persons to be the apostles of Christ, and eyewitnesses of his majesty: why stand ye gazing up into heaven? reproving them for their curiosity in looking after Christ with their bodily eyes, who was no more in common to be seen this way, but with an eye of faith; and for their desire after his corporeal presence, which they were not to look for; and as if they expected he would return again immediately, whereas his return will not be till the end of the world: and besides, they were not to remain on that spot, or stand gazing there; they were to go to Jerusalem, and abide there, as Christ had ordered, till they should receive the Holy Spirit in an extraordinary way; and then they were to preach a crucified Christ, and declare that he was risen from the dead, and was gone to heaven, and was ordained to be the Judge of quick and dead, This same Jesus; and not another; the same in person, in body and soul: which is taken up from you into heaven; who was taken up in a cloud out of their sight, and received into heaven, where he will be till the times of the restitution of all things; and which might be matter of grief to them, because of the loss of his bodily presence; though it should have been rather joyful to them, since he was gone to the Father, and as their forerunner, to prepare a place, and make intercession for them: shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven; he shall come in the same flesh, in the same human nature; he shall come in the clouds of heaven, and shall be attended with his mighty angels, as he now was; he shall descend himself in person, as he now ascended in person; and as he went up with a shout, and with the sound of a trumpet, see Psa 47:5 so he shall descend with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and the trump of God; and, it may be, he shall descend upon the very spot from whence he ascended; see Zac 14:4 and it is a notion of the Jews, that the resurrection of the Israelites will be there: they say (m), that "when the dead shall live, the Mount of Olives shall be cleaved asunder, and all the dead of Israel shall come out from under it; yea, even the righteous which die in captivity shall pass through a subterranean cavern, and come out from under the Mount of Olives. (m) Targum in Cant. viii. 5.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:11 Jesus promised to return from heaven in the same way (see Matt 24:30; Mark 13:26; John 14:3). Jesus has gone to heaven to prepare the place for his followers (John 12:26; 14:1-4; 2 Cor 5:4; Phil 3:21; Heb 6:20).