“And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:”
He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. — the ascension's necessity (dei, it is necessary, must) places Christ in heaven; the 'until' (achri hou) indicates a period of waiting and preparation before the final restoration. The restoration (apokatastasis, restoration of all things, return to original state) fulfills all the prophets' hopes; not just individual redemption but cosmic renewal is God's goal.
Church Fathers on Acts 3:20
So shall the times of refreshing come from the presence of the Lord. Acts 3:19 This betokens them in a sad state, brought low by many wars. For it is to the case of one on fire, and craving comfort, that the expression applies. And see now how he advances. In his first sermon, he but slightly hinted at the resurrection, and Christ's sitting in heaven; but here he also speaks of His visible advent. And He shall send Jesus the Christ ordained (for you), Whom the heaven must…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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