When did Jesus ascend; on the first day of the new week (Luke 24:51) or forty days later (Acts 1:3)?
Question:
When did the ascension happen, on the first day of the new week as stated in Luke 24:51 or was it 40 days later, as stated in Acts 1:3?
Answer:
Of course, it was about forty days later. Luke does not say when it happened. The scene in Luke 24:33-49 takes place in Jerusalem, as can be seen by reading the passage. The scene in Luke 24:50-53 takes place in Bethany. The time between events is not specified. Of course, there is no contradiction, except for those who are seeking one. Obviously, Luke was well aware of the timing of the ascension, as this was not a small thing to the early church.
John Oakes
