The term "Mystery of God" refers to divine truths that were once hidden but have been revealed through the Scriptures and the person of Jesus Christ. In the biblical context, a "mystery" is not something that is incomprehensible, but rather a truth that was previously concealed and is now made known by God.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of mystery is prevalent in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Colossians 2:2-3, Paul speaks of the mystery of God, namely Christ, "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." This indicates that the mystery centers on the person and work of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God's revelation to humanity.

Revelation and Fulfillment

The mystery of God is closely tied to the revelation of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Ephesians 1:9-10 states, "And He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ." This passage highlights that the mystery involves God's ultimate purpose to unite all things under Christ's lordship.

The Gospel as Mystery

The gospel itself is described as a mystery. In Ephesians 3:4-6, Paul explains, "In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 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." The inclusion of the Gentiles as co-heirs with Israel was a significant aspect of the mystery that was revealed in the New Testament era.

The Church and the Mystery

The Church is also a part of the mystery of God. In Ephesians 5:32, Paul refers to the relationship between Christ and the Church as a profound mystery. The union of Christ and His Church is a divine truth that reflects the depth of God's love and the intimate relationship He desires with His people.

The Mystery of Godliness

Another dimension of the mystery is the mystery of godliness. In 1 Timothy 3:16, Paul writes, "By common confession, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory." This encapsulates the incarnation, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, emphasizing the profound nature of God's work in Christ.

Eschatological Mystery

The mystery of God also has an eschatological aspect, referring to the end times and the consummation of God's plan. In Revelation 10:7, it is written, "But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound his trumpet, the mystery of God will be fulfilled, just as He proclaimed to His servants the prophets." This indicates that the full realization of God's mystery will occur at the end of the age, when His purposes are fully accomplished.

Conclusion

The mystery of God encompasses the revelation of Jesus Christ, the inclusion of the Gentiles in the covenant promises, the nature of the Church, the profound truths of godliness, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. These mysteries, once hidden, are now revealed to believers through the Scriptures and the work of the Holy Spirit, inviting them to partake in the divine wisdom and knowledge found in Christ.