![[article cover study.wiki.png]] ![[books.png]] **[Practical Christianity Wiki Home page](https://publish.obsidian.md/practical-christianity/About/Biblical+Studies)** ![[coffee.png]][Buy me a coffee?](https://givesendgo.com/PracticalChristianity?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=PracticalChristianity) --- ## The Mystery of the Church: God’s Revealed Plan of Unity **Cross Reference**: #Ephesians, #Unity_in_Christ, #Mystery_of_the_Gospel --- ### **Introduction** **Scripture Reference**: [Ephesians 3:1–21](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3.1-21&version=AMP) Paul’s letter to the Ephesians offers one of the most profound reflections on the mystery of the church—a mystery that was hidden for ages but now has been revealed in Christ. The church, in its essence, is not just a gathering of individuals; it is a divine institution, birthed out of God’s eternal plan, centered on Christ, and uniting Jews and Gentiles in a single body. In Ephesians 3, Paul unveils the profound mystery that was once concealed but is now clearly seen in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The unification of the people of God, through the gospel, transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries and showcases God’s manifold wisdom to the world. As we dive into this passage, let us reflect on the depth of the mystery of the church, the richness of God’s plan, and our call to participate in this divine work. --- ### **I. Paul’s Explanation to the Ephesians (3:1–13)** **Scripture Reference**: [Ephesians 3:1–13](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3.1-13&version=AMP) Paul, imprisoned for the sake of the gospel, begins this section by revealing the special mystery entrusted to him—one that both amazes and humbles him. The church, as the body of Christ, embodies a divine secret, now revealed to all, that speaks to God’s eternal wisdom and purpose. #### A. The Recipient of This Mystery (3:1–4, 7–9, 13) Paul, as the recipient of the mystery, is uniquely positioned to share it with the Gentiles and the rest of the world. Though he was imprisoned for his ministry, Paul recognizes that his suffering is not in vain. In fact, it serves to advance the gospel and reveal the truth of God’s eternal plan. 1. **The Mistreatment of the Apostle (3:1a, 13)** Despite being a faithful servant of Christ, Paul finds himself in prison, accused of crimes he did not commit. His imprisonment highlights the cost of the gospel and underscores the humility and perseverance required in the service of Christ. Even in suffering, Paul recognizes that it is for the sake of the gospel, a testimony of God’s strength in weakness. 2. **The Mission of the Apostle (3:1b–4, 9)** - **In Regard to the Divine Scriptures (3:1b–4):** Paul’s mission is rooted in preaching the Word of God. As an apostle, he is entrusted with the task of revealing the riches of God’s grace and wisdom to the Gentiles. The Scriptures, now revealed, declare the mystery of salvation that includes all peoples—Jew and Gentile alike. - **In Regard to the Divine Secret (3:9):** Paul is called to make this divine mystery known to all people. This mystery, now fully revealed, is that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Israel, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ through the gospel. 3. **The Meekness of the Apostle (3:7–8)** Paul humbly considers himself "the least of the apostles" and "the least deserving Christian there is." Despite his apostolic authority, he is fully aware of his unworthiness. His humility before God and his awe of the gospel’s mystery should serve as an example to believers, teaching us that true greatness in God’s kingdom is defined by humility, not by worldly status or accolades. _Reflection Prompt_: How does Paul’s example of humility in suffering challenge your perspective on God’s purposes in your own struggles? #### B. The Time of This Mystery (3:5) The mystery of the church was once hidden but is now revealed, marking a pivotal moment in redemptive history. The revelation of this mystery occurs in the fullness of time, as God’s plan, concealed in the Old Testament, is made clear in the New Testament through Christ. 1. **This Mystery Was Once Concealed in the Old Testament (3:5a)** In the Old Testament, there were glimpses of the coming Messiah, but the full revelation of the gospel and the inclusion of the Gentiles was a mystery. The prophets and angels longed to look into these things, but it was not yet fully disclosed. 2. **This Mystery Is Now Revealed in the New Testament (3:5b)** In the New Testament, through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, the mystery is fully unveiled. The church, made up of both Jews and Gentiles, is the culmination of God’s eternal plan, and the gospel is now freely accessible to all. _Reflection Prompt_: How does the revelation of this mystery increase your appreciation for God’s timing in history and in your own life? #### C. The Nature of This Mystery (3:6) The core of the mystery is the unification of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. Through His death, Christ has broken down the dividing wall between them, creating one new man in Himself. This mystery is not merely about individual salvation but the formation of a new, unified body—the church. - **The Mystery Unveiled**: "That the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel." This is not merely a doctrinal truth but a living reality, one that has profound implications for the church’s mission and identity. _Reflection Prompt_: What does it mean for you personally to be part of this unified body in Christ? How can you contribute to the unity and mission of the church? #### D. The Reasons for This Mystery (3:10–12) Paul concludes this section by explaining why God chose to reveal this mystery. It is not for the benefit of the church alone but for the glory of God and the manifestation of His wisdom. 1. **That God’s Wisdom Be Experienced by the Church (3:10b–12)** The church is the vehicle through which God’s manifold wisdom is displayed to the world. This wisdom is seen in the way God has reconciled humanity to Himself and united disparate peoples in Christ. The church, as the embodiment of this wisdom, serves as a living testimony to God’s redemptive plan. 2. **That God’s Wisdom Be Exhibited to the Angels (3:10a)** The church also serves as a display of God’s wisdom to the angels. They, who have witnessed God’s glory in creation, now behold His wisdom in the salvation of humanity. The church, in its unity and diversity, is a testimony to the cosmic powers of God’s plan. _Reflection Prompt_: How does the knowledge that your life as part of the church displays God’s wisdom to the angels inspire you to live with purpose and mission? --- ### **II. Paul’s Supplication for the Ephesians (3:14–21)** **Scripture Reference**: [Ephesians 3:14–21](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+3.14-21&version=AMP) After explaining the mystery of the church, Paul turns to prayer. His prayer for the Ephesians is a powerful plea for spiritual strength and deeper intimacy with God. #### A. In Regard to the Spirit of God (3:14–16) Paul begins by praying for the Ephesians’ inner strength. He asks that the Spirit of God empower them to grasp the greatness of God’s love and the fullness of their identity in Christ. - **Strengthened in the Inner Being**: The Spirit is the one who strengthens believers internally, enabling them to live the Christian life and endure trials. This strengthening is not merely emotional but spiritual, enabling believers to stand firm in faith. _Reflection Prompt_: How can you invite the Holy Spirit to strengthen your inner being today? #### B. In Regard to the Son of God (3:17) Paul’s second prayer is that Christ may dwell richly in the hearts of the Ephesians. This speaks of a deep, abiding presence of Christ in the believer’s life—a relationship marked by intimacy and transformation. - **Christ Dwelling in Our Hearts**: This is not a temporary visitation but a permanent residence. Christ is to be at home in our hearts, shaping our desires, priorities, and actions. _Reflection Prompt_: What are some practical ways you can allow Christ to feel "at home" in your heart and life? #### C. In Regard to the Love of God (3:18–21) Paul prays that the Ephesians might be able to comprehend the breadth, length, height, and depth of God’s love—something that surpasses knowledge. This is not just an intellectual understanding but a deep, experiential encounter with God’s love. - **Experiencing God’s Love**: Paul’s prayer is that believers would experience the fullness of God’s love, which is foundational to living the Christian life. This love empowers believers to love others and live sacrificially. _Reflection Prompt_: How can you allow the depth of God’s love to transform your relationships and your actions? --- ### **Conclusion** The mystery of the church—the unification of Jews and Gentiles in Christ—is one of the most profound truths in Scripture. It speaks to God’s eternal wisdom and His plan to glorify Himself through the church. As believers, we are called to participate in this mystery, living out its implications in our daily lives. **Call to Action**: Reflect on how you can live as part of God’s body, displaying His wisdom and love to the world. Commit to walking in unity with other believers and furthering God’s kingdom on earth. --- **Related Concepts:** - [[Justification]] - [[Sola Gratia]] - [[Eschatology]] - [[Ephesians 03 Exegesis]]