How can we faithfully manage the "mysteries of God" in our communities? Setting the Conversation “Let a man regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” (1 Corinthians 4:1) Paul’s words turn every believer into a household manager of priceless treasure. The “mysteries” are not puzzles to solve but truths God has revealed in Christ—truths meant to be guarded, lived, and shared. What Are the “Mysteries”? • Christ Himself—“the mystery that was hidden for ages…which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:26-27). • The gospel going to all nations (Ephesians 3:6-9). • The resurrection and transformation of believers (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). • The unity of the church as one body (Ephesians 5:32). These are now openly proclaimed, yet they remain holy wonders that demand reverence. Stewardship Defined • A steward manages what belongs to someone else (Luke 12:42-44). • Accountability is built in: “it is required of stewards that they be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). • Faithfulness means holding to the revealed Word without alteration (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). Practical Ways to Manage the Mysteries Together 1. Hold Fast to Sound Doctrine – Teach “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). – “Rightly handle the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). – Guard against “another gospel” (Galatians 1:6-9). 2. Live Transparently Before One Another – Paul reminds, “By the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Corinthians 15:10). – Consistency between belief and behavior protects the gospel’s credibility (Philippians 1:27). 3. Serve Through God-Given Gifts – “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards” (1 Peter 4:10). – Spiritual gifts—teaching, mercy, leadership, generosity—are channels for displaying the mystery. 4. Cultivate Community Worship – Public reading of Scripture (1 Timothy 4:13). – The Lord’s Supper proclaims the mystery of Christ’s death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). 5. Maintain Humble Dependence – “The secret things belong to the LORD” (Deuteronomy 29:29). – Wonder keeps us from reducing divine truth to mere information; it leads to worship (Romans 11:33). Guarding the Trust • Discernment—Test every spirit (1 John 4:1). • Discipline—Lovingly correct error (Titus 1:9-11). • Perseverance—“Continue in what you have learned” (2 Timothy 3:14). A community that tolerates distortion forfeits its stewardship. Living the Mystery Out Loud • Evangelism—Declare “the mystery of the gospel” with clarity (Ephesians 6:19-20). • Hospitality—Showcase Christ’s welcome to outsiders (Romans 15:7). • Justice and Mercy—Reveal God’s character by defending the vulnerable (Micah 6:8; James 1:27). When the church embodies the message, the unseen becomes visible. Encouraging One Another • Regular fellowship fuels endurance (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Sharing testimonies reminds everyone that the mystery still transforms lives (Revelation 12:11). • Singing truth lodges doctrine in the heart (Colossians 3:16). In a Sentence We manage the mysteries of God by guarding the gospel, living it with integrity, and passing it on—together—so that every generation sees and savors the revealed glory of Christ. |
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