ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates Karl Barth's understanding of Jesus' ascension, with its outcome in the heavenly session, and to introduce the ways in which this understanding is worked out in relation to other doctrines. Barth views the function of Jesus' ascension within the New Testament Epistles, for instance. Against docetic or 'demythologised' readings of Jesus' resurrection and ascension Barth insists upon the risen humanity of the Son as He ascends to the throne of God. Descent and ascent belong with chalcedonian doctrine, and are present throughout the ministry of the One who is at once Son of Man and Son of God. Barth's chalcedonian Christology will permit no breach between the divinity and humanity of the Reconciler, but also no confusion. Barth understands Jesus Christ's Parousia as a threefold coming – resurrection and ascension, the 'promise' of the Spirit, and His final eschaton.
