Unveiling the Profound Mystery: Jew and Gentile United in Christ
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Mystery of Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
- 2.1 The Preface to the Revelation of the Mystery
- 2.2 The Unsearchable Riches of Christ
- The Fellowship of the Mystery
- 3.1 The Church as a Means to Reveal God's Wisdom
- 3.2 Teaching Angelic Beings through the Church
- The Eternal Purpose of God
- 4.1 God's Plan from the Beginning of the Ages
- 4.2 Summing Up All Things in Christ
- Encouragement in Tribulations
🔒 The Mystery of Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
In this article, we will delve into the profound mystery revealed by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians. This letter, particularly chapter 3 verses 1 to 13, contains a remarkable passage that showcases the depth of Paul's understanding and the staggering revelation he received from God. The mystery that consumed Paul's life and purpose was the unification of Jew and Gentile in Christ, a truth hidden throughout the ages but now made known through the Spirit to Paul and other apostles and prophets (v. 5). Brace yourself, for this mystery has the potential to blow your mind.
2.1 The Preface to the Revelation of the Mystery
Paul, who considered himself the least of all the saints, was chosen by God to be the vessel through which this mystery would be revealed (v. 8). Even from his prison cell in Rome, Paul continued to participate in this great mystery and urged the Ephesians not to lose heart or be discouraged by his tribulations (v. 13). It is essential to understand that Paul's understanding of his place in God's plan grew gradually, and it took time for him to fully grasp and accept his role as the apostle to the Gentiles.
2.2 The Unsearchable Riches of Christ
At the heart of this mystery is the remarkable truth that Gentiles are now fellow heirs of the same body as Jewish believers and partakers of God's promises in Christ through the gospel (v. 6). The significance of this revelation cannot be overstated. In previous times, Gentiles could only be saved by becoming Jews first, adhering to the Mosaic law and customs. But now, in God's grand plan, there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile. They are united in one body, the Church, experiencing the unsearchable riches of Christ (v. 8). This revelation shattered the boundaries and expectations of the Jewish world, leaving them in awe of God's wisdom.
The Fellowship of the Mystery
3.1 The Church as a Means to Reveal God's Wisdom
God, in his manifold wisdom, has chosen to make known this mystery through the Church (v. 10). The Church, comprising believers from all nations, races, and backgrounds, serves as a living demonstration of God's wisdom to angelic beings. They observe and learn from our conduct, our unity, and the way we embody the fellowship of the mystery. Our love for one another, despite our differences, is a powerful testimony of God's redemptive work in the world.
3.2 Teaching Angelic Beings through the Church
The principalities and powers in the heavenly places, referring to angelic beings, are the audience for God's cosmic theater. They witness, with great interest, the unfolding drama of God's plan for the Church (v. 10). Through our lives, both individually and collectively, we are teaching angelic beings about God's wisdom and faithfulness. They see our weaknesses, sins, and struggles, but they also see our faith in an unseen God and our unwavering commitment to Him. Our lives serve as a school for the angels, teaching them about God's grace, power, and the destiny He has prepared for His people (v. 12).
The Eternal Purpose of God
4.1 God's Plan from the Beginning of the Ages
The mystery of the unified body is not a recent addition to God's plan. It is a revelation that was hidden in God from the beginning of the ages (v. 9). Even the prophets of old were not aware of this mystery, which has now been revealed through the apostles and prophets of the first-century Church (v. 5). God's eternal purpose was always to bring together Jew and Gentile in Christ, creating one new man, the Church, a living testament of His wisdom and grace (Ephesians 2:15).
4.2 Summing Up All Things in Christ
The ultimate fulfillment of God's eternal purpose will be when He sums up or resolves all things in Christ (v. 10). This refers to a future event where Jesus will bring all creation under His lordship and authority. All things, both in heaven and on earth, will find their ultimate resolution and purpose in Him. As believers, we have the assurance that we are part of this grand plan, and though our role may be small, we have the privilege of participating in God's eternal purpose.
Encouragement in Tribulations
In conclusion, let us take heart and find encouragement in the example of the Apostle Paul. Despite his tribulations and imprisonment, he boldly embraced his role in the mystery of Christ and urged the Ephesians to do the same (v. 13). We too should not lose heart but press on, knowing that our lives have a purpose far greater than we can imagine. We are part of a glorious production, displaying God's manifold wisdom and grace to a watching world and angelic beings. Embrace your place in this great mystery and shine brightly for Christ.
Highlights
- The Mystery of Paul's Letter to the Ephesians: Unification of Jew and Gentile in Christ (Chapter 3:1-13).
- The Church as the Means to Reveal God's Wisdom to Angelic Beings.
- Teaching Angelic Beings through the Fellowship of the Mystery.
- God's Eternal Purpose: Bringing together Jew and Gentile in Christ.
- The Church's Role in Summing Up All Things in Christ.
- Encouragement in Tribulations: Paul's Example and Exhortation.
FAQ
Q: How does the Church reveal God's wisdom to angelic beings?
A: The Church reveals God's wisdom to angelic beings through its unity, love, and embodiment of the fellowship of the mystery. As believers from diverse backgrounds come together in one body, it showcases the power of God to reconcile Jew and Gentile and teaches angelic beings about God's redemptive work.
Q: Why is the unification of Jew and Gentile considered a mystery?
A: The unification of Jew and Gentile in Christ was a mystery because it was not fully revealed in the Old Testament Scriptures. While it was known that Gentiles could be saved, it was believed that they had to become Jews first. The revelation that they could come together as one body in Christ, while maintaining their distinct identities, was a profound and hidden truth until God unveiled it through the apostles and prophets.
Q: How does the Church fulfill God's eternal purpose?
A: The Church fulfills God's eternal purpose by serving as a living demonstration of His wisdom and grace. As believers, we have a role to play in the grand production of God's plan, showing His manifold wisdom to the world and teaching angelic beings through our lives. Through our unity, love, and faithfulness, we showcase the power of the gospel and embody the fellowship of the mystery.
Q: What is the significance of the Church's role in summing up all things in Christ?
A: The Church's role in summing up all things in Christ refers to the ultimate resolution and fulfillment of God's plan for creation. In Jesus, all things will find their purpose and meaning, whether in heaven or on earth. As believers, we have the privilege of being part of this glorious plan and participating in the unfolding of God's eternal purpose.
