Ephesians 3:6

This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus.

Study Bible

This mystery
The term "mystery" in the Greek is "mystērion," which refers to a divine secret that was once hidden but is now revealed. In the context of Ephesians, this mystery is not something that is mysterious in the sense of being incomprehensible, but rather a truth that was previously concealed in God's plan and has now been disclosed through the revelation of Jesus Christ. Historically, the concept of mystery was significant in the Greco-Roman world, often associated with religious rites and secret knowledge. However, Paul uses it to emphasize the unveiling of God's redemptive plan for humanity, which was hidden in ages past but is now made known through the gospel.

through the gospel
The Greek word for "gospel" is "euangelion," meaning "good news." This good news is the message of salvation through Jesus Christ, which is central to Christian faith. The gospel is the means by which the mystery is revealed and made accessible to all people, both Jews and Gentiles. In the historical context of the early church, the gospel was revolutionary, breaking down the barriers between different ethnic and social groups, and offering a new way of life centered on the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus.

the Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" refers to all nations or peoples who are not of Jewish descent. In the Old Testament, the Gentiles were often seen as outsiders to the covenant promises given to Israel. However, in the New Testament, particularly in Paul's writings, the inclusion of the Gentiles is a major theme. This inclusion signifies the universal scope of God's salvation plan, which extends beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace all humanity. The historical context of the early church was marked by tension between Jewish and Gentile believers, and Paul's message was pivotal in promoting unity and equality among them.

are fellow heirs
The phrase "fellow heirs" comes from the Greek "sugklēronoma," indicating a shared inheritance. In the biblical context, an heir is someone who receives an inheritance, often associated with familial rights and privileges. By calling Gentiles "fellow heirs," Paul emphasizes that they share equally in the spiritual blessings and promises of God, alongside Jewish believers. This concept would have been radical in the first-century context, where inheritance was typically restricted by ethnic and familial lines.

fellow members of the body
The Greek term "sussōma" is used here, which is unique to this passage and emphasizes the unity and integration of Gentiles into the body of Christ. The "body" metaphor is a powerful image used by Paul to describe the church, highlighting the interconnectedness and interdependence of all believers. Historically, this was a profound statement against the backdrop of a divided society, affirming that in Christ, all believers are united as one body, regardless of their ethnic or cultural backgrounds.

and fellow partakers of the promise
The phrase "fellow partakers" is translated from the Greek "summetocha," meaning to share in or participate together. The "promise" refers to the covenantal promises of God, which include salvation, the Holy Spirit, and eternal life. By stating that Gentiles are fellow partakers, Paul underscores the full inclusion of Gentiles in the blessings and promises that were once thought to be exclusive to Israel. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 12:3).

in Christ Jesus
The phrase "in Christ Jesus" is central to Paul's theology, signifying the believer's union with Christ. This union is the basis for all the blessings and privileges mentioned in the verse. It is through Christ that the mystery is revealed, the gospel is preached, and the promises are fulfilled. Historically, this concept of being "in Christ" was transformative, offering a new identity and purpose to believers, transcending their previous divisions and uniting them in a shared faith and mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who, through the gospel, are now included in the promises of God alongside the Jewish people.

3. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor where the church to whom this letter was addressed was located. It was a significant center for early Christianity.

4. Christ Jesus
The central figure of Christianity, whose life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of the gospel message.

5. The Church
The body of believers, both Jews and Gentiles, who are united in Christ and share in the promises of God.

Teaching Points

Unity in Christ
The gospel breaks down barriers between Jews and Gentiles, creating one unified body in Christ. This unity should be reflected in the church today, transcending cultural and ethnic divisions.

Inheritance of the Promise
Believers, regardless of their background, are heirs to the promises of God. This includes the promise of eternal life and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The Mystery Revealed
The inclusion of the Gentiles was a mystery hidden in ages past but now revealed through the gospel. This demonstrates God's sovereign plan and His desire for all people to come to salvation.

Living as Partakers
As fellow partakers of the promise, believers are called to live in a manner worthy of their calling, reflecting the character and love of Christ in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ impact your view of the church today?

2. In what ways can you actively promote unity within your local church community?

3. Reflect on the concept of being a "fellow heir" with Christ. How does this influence your identity and purpose as a believer?

4. How can the revelation of this "mystery" encourage you in sharing the gospel with others, especially those from different cultural backgrounds?

5. Consider the promises of God that you are a partaker of. How can these promises shape your daily decisions and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 11
Discusses the inclusion of the Gentiles into God's plan, using the metaphor of an olive tree to describe how Gentiles are grafted into the promises given to Israel.

Galatians 3:28-29
Emphasizes the unity of all believers in Christ, stating that there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 1:27
Speaks of the mystery of Christ in the Gentiles, which is the hope of glory, further explaining the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.