This chapter examines the way recapitulation runs from the inauguration of new life in the church to the consummation of all things. Irenaeus had learnt from Paul of correction and from John of perfection. Ephesians told him of a new order of being in Christ, of the body, which grew from and into the head, displaying the eschatological miracle of the cross which brought restoration and perfection. This salvation radiates through the church, in which life, truth and goodness descend from Christ through the apostles and spread throughout the world. Life or being is the note of the church for those who have been raised with Christ to be united with him in heavenly places. The church is guided by the economy of apostolic truth and its members display a new pattern of life. Ordered by ministry and mission, the church lives by baptism and eucharist until the final consummation when God alone will reign. Christ will come again and the dead will be raised. Recapitulation continues to the end, uniting the faithful and rejecting apostates, defeating Antichrist and restoring humanity to God.

INAUGURATION OF NEW LIFE

Those who were dead in trespasses and sins, ruled by the prince of the power of the air, have, together with Christ, been made alive, raised and seated in heavenly places (Eph. 2:5, 6: συνεζωοποíησεν, συνήγειρεν, συνεκάθισεν). Newness is shown in a new spirit, a new order, a new worship of one God (3.10.2).