The purpose of Christ’s ascension is “that he might fill all things” (4:10). This clause, too, recalls 1:22–23. In the light of those verses, this clause reaffirms the assertion that all things reach their proper end under Christ’s rule (1:10). This is as true of the church, which is the focus of 4:7–10, as it is of the rest of creation. Christ’s ascension enables him to fill all things and thus bring them to their proper end. This also enables the gifts sent through the Spirit to bring about their
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