Ephesians 4:9 delves into the profound mystery of Christ's incarnation and exaltation. By stating "he ascended," the verse implies that Christ first descended to the earthly realm. This descent is symbolic of Jesus leaving His heavenly throne to become human, experiencing the full range of human life, including suffering and death. His willingness to descend reflects His immense love and humility, as He came to serve and save humanity.
The ascension, on the other hand, marks His victory over sin and death, affirming His divine nature and authority. It signifies the completion of His earthly mission and His return to the Father, where He intercedes for us. This dual movement of descent and ascent encapsulates the core of the Christian faith: God reaching down to humanity to lift us up to Him. It encourages believers to embrace the hope and redemption offered through Christ's sacrifice and victory, reminding us of the transformative power of His love and grace.