What is the meaning of Colossians 1:26? The Mystery Paul uses the word “mystery” to describe truth that God once kept concealed but has now clarified in Christ. Ephesians 3:3–6 calls this mystery “the gospel,” specifically that Gentiles are “fellow heirs” with Israel. First Corinthians 2:7 describes it as “God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden.” In Colossians, the mystery centers on Christ Himself—“Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). So, the verse signals that what seemed unclear under the old covenant is now unmistakably focused on Jesus and His indwelling presence among all believers. Hidden for Ages and Generations Scripture presents revelation as progressive. • Hebrews 1:1–2 notes that God “spoke to our fathers through the prophets… but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son.” • First Peter 1:10–12 pictures prophets searching and inquiring about grace they themselves could only glimpse. • Even the angels desired to look into these things, underscoring how completely the truth was veiled. Through law, ritual, and prophecy, God dropped hints—foreshadowing the Messiah, the new covenant, and a multinational people—yet the full picture awaited Christ’s arrival. Now Revealed With Jesus’ incarnation, death, and resurrection, the curtain lifts. Romans 16:25–26 says the mystery “kept secret for long ages” has been “made known to all nations.” Ephesians 3:5 adds that it is “revealed by the Spirit to His holy apostles and prophets.” Key aspects of this unveiling include: • Salvation accomplished: Christ’s cross reconciles sinners to God (Colossians 1:20). • Unity of Jew and Gentile: one body in Christ (Ephesians 2:14–16). • The indwelling Christ: believers become His temple (Colossians 1:27; John 14:23). To His Saints The recipients are “His saints”—ordinary believers set apart by faith in Jesus. • First Corinthians 2:10–12 explains that “God has revealed it to us by the Spirit… that we may understand what God has freely given us.” • John 14:26 promises the Spirit will teach and remind disciples of everything Christ said. • First Peter 2:9 affirms that God’s people are “a chosen race… that you may proclaim the virtues of Him who called you.” God does not reserve this insight for an elite few; every believer may grasp and celebrate the gospel’s riches. Summary Colossians 1:26 celebrates a once-hidden plan now openly displayed in Jesus Christ. What prophets longed to see has been fully disclosed through the cross, resurrection, and Spirit, with the result that every believer—Jew or Gentile—shares in the indwelling life of Christ and the hope of glory. God’s mystery is no longer a puzzle but a Person, and His saints are invited to live out and proclaim that revealed reality. |
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