Today’s passage is one that actually has controversy in it. There are several different views that scholars take. Here is the passage in the KJV.

8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)

Remember, verse 7 was referring to grace that was given to each of us according to our Messiah’s gift. Now, Paul is talking about Christ ascending and descending. i do not feel qualified to debate the various views. You can listen to J Vernon McGee’s broadcast on this here as well as access other commentaries. He has a practical view of Scripture and is someone that I have learned to trust over many years.

Dr. McGee refers to the ascension as Christ’s ascension into Heaven after His resurrection. Jesus then gave gifts to us to carry out the mission of telling others about Him. Dr. McGee goes on to say that in verses 9-10, Jesus descended into death to carry out the believers who had died previously. His teaching on this passage is simple and clear while he references that others do have other interpretations.

As I read these verses, I was reminded again of God’s amazing gift to us. It also reminded me that Christ walked this earth and experienced pain, fatigue, temptation, and everything we do. He willingly came from Heaven to earth out of His love for us. He not only took our punishment (WOW), but also was tempted as we are. This is amazing to me. It reminded me of Hebrews 4:14-16. Jesus, our High Priest, was tempted as we are and understands! The amazing thing is that He was tempted yet did not sin. And, we have that power through Him!

Whatever we are facing today, Jesus understands!