GOD’S MYSTERY TO SAVE THE GENTILES

Ephesians 3:1-13 / Keywords 3:6

This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.

 

3:1 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles-- 2 Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you, 3 that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 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. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. 7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

 

1. Paul proclaims that the reason he is a prisoner in Rome is because he preached that the gospel is for both the Jews and Gentiles. In Christ, they are equal; they are one body. This revelation was given by the Holy Spirit to the apostles and had been previously hidden.

2. Paul realized God’s grace in using him for this great and special purpose. Especially since Paul had been a top Pharisee, if he says that Gentiles are included, it’s even more powerful. Paul revealed the mystery that had been hidden and was now revealed: that the Gentiles would also receive the boundless spiritual riches.

3. God’s plan was that through the church, this manifold wisdom was revealed to the spiritual authorities. Imagine the angels gaze in wonder that in Christ and through him, we approach the throne of God with freedom and in confidence. Thus, the believers should not be discouraged by Paul’s chains, but praise God for enabling Paul to preach the gospel to the various Gentile people in Rome.

Prayer Father, thank you for revealing your marvelous plan of salvation. Help us to preach God’s glorious salvation wherever we are.

One Word God’s manifold wisdom to save people from all nations to be one body in his kingdom