ABSTRACT
The scant reference to the resurrection, and the wealth of observations on the ascension in these sections, might give the impression that Irenaeus is passing over the resurrection as of little import. Resurrection and ascension are together one sweep of significance in the whole coherent and integrated movement of the existence of the Word as flesh from the incarnation onwards right through crucifixion, resurrection and ascension and into His coming again. The ascension is seen by Irenaeus in terms of the exaltation of the new man, risen from the dead, with the 'place' of his humanity or the 'room' he has made for his flesh and human nature in the assumption of it, still intact, to the 'place' or 'room' which God makes for the reception of our humanity in the heavenly 'places' in the ascended Christ. The preaching is universal, but its content is that 'short word'.
