IMPACT BY THE BOOK (8)

“By which, WHEN YOU READ, you may UNDERSTAND my knowledge in the MYSTERY of CHRIST)” – Ephesians 3:4

Understanding the revelation of the Mystery of Christ is a vital dimension of IMPACT by the BOOK: “How that by revelation He made known to me the mystery (as I have briefly written already, by which, WHEN YOU READ, you may UNDERSTAND my knowledge in the MYSTERY of CHRIST)” (Eph. 3: 3-4). Paul caught the Mystery of Christ by Revelation. Understanding the knowledge of this same mystery is divinely communicated to Believers who READ and are IMPACTED by the BOOK!

A mystery signifies a truth that was once hidden but has been revealed; a divine plan previously concealed but now disclosed to Believers in Christ. Mysteries are revealed by God, not discovered by reason or intuition. Writing to the Ephesians, Paul highlighted three doctrinal topics that he called “mysteries,” namely: the dispensation of the fulness of times (Eph.1:9–10); the Gentiles becoming fellow heirs in Christ through the gospel (vv.3-6); and marital living and stewardship (Eph. 5:31–32). These were relevant and fiercely debated issues of his times; hence, the need to illuminate them for future generations of Believers.

Today’s meditation text pinpoints the impact of God’s Grace in revealing “the Mystery of Christ” to the Church: that Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of God's promise in Christ through the gospel. Paul, as a prisoner of Christ, affirmed that this revelation, previously hidden, is now made known to him and other apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit (vv.5-6). He described this mystery, involving the inclusion of Gentiles, as a central part of God's eternal purpose in Christ; and affirmed that its revelation was an act of God's Grace, specifically given to him to preach to the Gentiles (v.7).

Understanding this Mystery of Christ comes through revelation and reading of Scripture. Paul highlighted the value of engaging with scriptures – particularly the apostolic truths – as a means to grasp God's revelation. Understanding this mystery has a profound impact on believers. It leads to a deeper appreciation of God's Plan and Paul's ministry to the Gentiles; and connects with His manifold Wisdom: “To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places” (v.10). The revelation of this mystery grants access, and brings boldness and confidence through faith to believers, in approaching God, as it reveals the depth of His love and plan for all people (v.12).

Believers are encouraged to seek understanding through careful reading, diligent study, intentional meditation, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate divine truths, in order to encounter Mystery-unveiling Impact by the Book. Indeed, the Bible is not merely a collection of historical stories but a source of revelation that transforms lives and deepens our relationship with God.