What role does the "mystery hidden for long ages past" play today? Setting the Scene: What Is the Mystery? “Now to Him who is able to strengthen you by my gospel and by the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery concealed for ages past but now revealed and made known through the prophetic Scriptures…” (Romans 16:25-26) The “mystery” once concealed is now unmistakably clear: God’s long-promised salvation is fully realized in Jesus Christ and openly offered to Jews and Gentiles alike. What prophets only foresaw, we now witness. Unpacking the Mystery • Christ Himself—crucified, risen, and reigning—is the centerpiece (Ephesians 3:3-4). • Gentiles are “fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (Ephesians 3:6). • “Christ in you, the hope of glory” brings the indwelling presence of God to every believer (Colossians 1:26-27). The Role for Today 1. Establishes Believers • The same God who once hid the plan now “strengthens” (Romans 16:25) Christians, rooting us in unshakable truth. 2. Unifies the Church • No racial, cultural, or social wall stands where the mystery is embraced; we are “one new man” in Christ (Ephesians 2:15). 3. Energizes Mission • Because all nations are included, the Church presses outward—“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). 4. Shapes Identity • Christians live as people to whom God has revealed His deepest purpose; we walk in confident assurance rather than uncertainty. 5. Fuels Worship • The unveiled plan compels doxology: “To the only wise God be glory forever” (Romans 16:27). 6. Anchors Hope • The completed revelation guarantees the future consummation—what God has begun He will finish (Philippians 1:6). Key Supporting Passages • Ephesians 3:3-9—Paul explains his stewardship of the mystery. • Colossians 1:26-27—The hidden word now manifested to the saints. • 1 Peter 1:10-12—Prophets served future generations; we live in their fulfillment. Practical Takeaways • Rejoice daily that you live on the side of history where God’s plan is revealed. • Stand firm—your faith rests on a mystery now made plain, not on speculation. • Embrace every brother and sister; the same grace that reached you extends to all peoples. • Let the certainty of God’s completed revelation embolden your witness and deepen your worship. |
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