Chapter 2

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The worse is that which is diminished; but there is grace for it. Nothing, then, redeemeth us from this place; but the All which we are, we are saved. We have received salvation from end to end. Let us think in this way; let us comprehend in this way.

But there are some that wish to understand, in the inquiry concerning these things, whether he that is saved, if he leave his body behind, will be saved immediately. Let no man doubt concerning this.

How then shall the visible members which are dead not be saved? — since the living members which exist within them shall arise.

What, then, is the resurrection? It is at any time the disclosure of those that have arisen. For if thou rememberest reading in the gospel that Elias appeared, and Moses with Him, do not suppose the resurrection is an apparition. It is no apparition; rather, it is a real thing.

Indeed, it is more fitting to say that the world is an apparition, rather than the resurrection, which hath come into being through our Lord the Saviour, Jesus Christ.

But what am I telling thee now? The living shall die. How do they live in an apparition? The rich have become poor; and the kings have been overthrown. Everything is changeable. The world is an apparition.

Lest I detain thee with too much abuse — but the resurrection doth not have this aforementioned aspect. For it is the truth which standeth firm. It is the disclosure of what is, and the change of things, and a transition into newness.

For incorruption descendeth upon the corruption; the light floweth down upon the darkness, swallowing it up; and the Pleroma filleth up the deficiency. These are the symbols and the images of the resurrection. He, even He, maketh the good.

Therefore think not in part, O Rheginos, neither live in conformity with this flesh, for the sake of unanimity; but flee from the divisions and the fetters; and already thou hast the resurrection.

For if he that shall die knoweth in himself that he shall die — even should he tarry many years in this life, he is brought unto this. Why dost thou not consider thine own self as risen, and brought unto this?

If thou hast the resurrection, but continuest as if thou wilt die — yet that one knoweth that he hath died — wherefore then do I dismiss thy lack of exercise? It is fitting for each one to practise in a number of ways, and he shall be released from this element, that he may not fall into error, but shall himself receive again what at first was.

These things have I received from the generosity of my Lord, Jesus the Christ. I have taught thee, and thy brethren — my children — concerning them. I have not omitted any of the things suitable for strengthening you.

But if there be aught laid down obscurely in my exposition of the Word, I shall expound it for thee, when thou askest. Now, do not begrudge any one that is of thy number, who is able to be of help.

Many are looking unto this which I have written unto thee. To them I say: peace be among them, and grace. I salute thee, and them which love you in brotherly love.

The Treatise on the Resurrection.