How does Ephesians 3:9 connect with God's plan revealed in Genesis? The Hidden Mystery Stated Ephesians 3:9: “and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.” • Paul calls God “the One who created all things,” taking us straight back to Genesis 1:1. • The “mystery” is the inclusion of the Gentiles in Christ (Ephesians 3:6). This plan was embedded in Genesis but not fully unveiled until the gospel era. Genesis Seeds of the Mystery • Creation’s starting point: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). The Creator later becomes the Revealer; nothing is outside His plan. • First gospel hint: “He will crush your head” (Genesis 3:15). The promised Seed would defeat Satan—salvation for all who believe, not just one ethnic line. • Abrahamic promise: “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3; 22:18). God had global Gentile blessing in view from the start. • Jacob repeats it: “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring” (Genesis 28:14). Each patriarch receives the same worldwide vision. From Shadow to Substance • Old Testament ages knew pieces: prophetic types, sacrifices, covenants. • The full picture stayed “kept hidden in God” (Ephesians 3:9) until Christ came. • Colossians 1:26—27 repeats Paul’s theme: “the mystery hidden for ages…Christ in you, the hope of glory.” • 1 Peter 1:10–12 tells us even prophets longed to understand what has now been announced to us. Christ the Centerpiece • Jesus embodies the Genesis promises: – Seed of the woman, crushing Satan (Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 2:14). – True Seed of Abraham, blessing the nations (Galatians 3:16). • At the cross He broke the wall between Jew and Gentile (Ephesians 2:14–16). • Resurrection affirmed that God’s Genesis-level creative power now works new creation in believers (2 Corinthians 5:17). Paul’s Stewardship, Our Invitation • “Stewardship” (oikonomia) pictures Paul as household manager distributing riches God long kept in reserve. • The church now proclaims what was once hidden: one family, one Savior, one eternal purpose (Ephesians 3:10–11). Why the Connection Matters • Genesis shows God’s universal ownership; Ephesians shows His universal redemption. Same Author, same plan. • The Bible’s first chapters lay the foundation; Paul’s letter unveils the completed blueprint. • Seeing the thread from Genesis to Ephesians assures us that God never improvises—He fulfills. |
    |