Holding forth the Word of Life
— Philippians 2:16a (KJV)
Christ ascended into heaven
to manifest himself there
as Head of his church,1
through whom the Father governs all things.2
First,
by his Holy Spirit he pours out heavenly gifts upon us, his members.1
Second,
by his power he defends and preserves us against all enemies.2
In all my sorrow and persecution
I lift up my head and eagerly await as judge from heaven the very same person who before has submitted himself to the judgment of God for my sake, and has removed all the curse from me.1
He will cast all his and my enemies
into everlasting condemnation,
but he will take me and all his chosen ones
to himself into heavenly joy and glory.2