Weekly Bible Study | May 12 & 13, 2026

PastorBible Study

Axe Group Study: Luke 24:44-53

This week, as we continue our series, “Not Alone: The Living Presence of God,” we celebrate “Ascension Sunday.” Upon an initial reading, it could appear that The Ascension is about Jesus and his departure, but The Ascension is not about Jesus abandoning the disciples. It is about Christ’s presence expanding through the Spirit and the disciples learning to trust God in a new way. During this study time, we’ll reflect on change, transition, trust, and the surprising promise that Christ remains present even when life feels uncertain.

ZOOM Session

Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

IN PERSON Session

Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 1:00 pm-2:00 pm, Conference Room, McGee Building.

Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 626 688 7263

Passcode: DEVOTIONAL

Opening Prayer

Living Christ, you meet us in moments of transition and uncertainty. Open our hearts to your presence today. Teach us to trust you beyond what we can see and help us recognize your Spirit already at work among us. Amen.

Scripture Reading

As you read/listen to this passage, keep these thoughts in mind…

  • A phrase that stands out
  • An emotion you hear in the disciples
  • A question the passage raises for you

Luke 24:44–53 

Then he said to them, ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.’ 45Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, 46and he said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, 47and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.’

Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. 51While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; 53and they were continually in the temple blessing God.

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you most in this passage?

2. What emotions do you imagine the disciples experienced during the Ascension?

3. What actions does Jesus take before ascending?

4. Why do you think the disciples return to Jerusalem with joy instead of grief?

5. Jesus leaves while blessing them. What does that image say about the character of Christ?

6. What do you think the Ascension means spiritually—not just literally?

7. How does this story challenge the idea that God is absent when unseen?

8. What transition or change are you navigating right now?

9. Where do you struggle most with uncertainty or letting go?

10. Have there been moments in your life when you only recognized God’s presence in hindsight?

11. The disciples had to let go of experiencing Jesus in one way in order to discover Christ’s presence in another. Have you experienced something similar in your faith journey?

12. What helps you trust God when clarity is limited?

13. The Ascension sends the disciples back into the world with purpose. What does it mean for the church to continue the presence of Christ today?

14. Where do you see people longing for hope, blessing, or companionship in your community?

15. How might we embody Christ’s presence in practical ways this week?

Spiritual Practices for the Week

1. Spend a few moments each day sitting quietly with open hands.

Pray: “God, help me release what I cannot control and trust your presence.”

Notice what thoughts, fears, or hopes arise.

2. At the end of each day, ask:

  • Where did I notice grace today?
  • Where did I experience connection, hope, or peace?
  • Where might Christ have been present without my realizing it?

3. You might also consider writing and reflecting on these thoughts:

·         something you need to release,

·       or an old expectation you may be clinging to.

Pray over it and place it somewhere visible during the week as a reminder to trust God’s leading.

Closing Prayer

Ascended Christ, when we fear change or uncertainty, remind us that your presence still surrounds us. Help us trust you beyond what we can see. Teach us to release what holds us back and follow where your Spirit leads. Send us into the world as people of blessing, hope, and compassion, reflecting your love in all we do. Amen.