Mystērion: mystery now revealed in Christ: A Biblical Guide
Short answer: In Ephesians 3:3-6, Paul explains how the mystery of God's plan was revealed to him by divine revelation. This mystery is that Gentiles are now fellow heirs and members of God's family through faith in Christ, a truth not known to previous generations but made clear to apostles and prophets in the Spirit.
Paul as a Prisoner for the Gentiles
The passage begins with Paul identifying himself as 'the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles' (Ephesians 3:1). This statement sets up his role not only as an apostle but also as someone who suffers because of his mission to the Gentiles. The Greek word used for 'prisoner' suggests a deep commitment, perhaps even a sense of being held in chains by Christ's purpose rather than by human authority. Paul's identity is shaped by this calling, which challenges the traditional Jewish understanding that salvation was limited to Israel.
He references an earlier message he wrote about the mystery made known through revelation (Ephesians 3:3). The word 'revelation' implies a direct communication from God, not simply human insight. This reinforces that the truth Paul proclaims is divinely inspired and not his own invention. His writing serves as a means for others to understand this mystery, which was previously hidden but now revealed through divine intervention.
Paul's explanation of how he came to know the mystery connects with his broader mission in Ephesians 3:8-10. He emphasizes that being 'the very least of all saints' (Ephesians 3:8) is a humbling acknowledgment, one that reflects God's grace rather than human merit. This humility becomes part of how he preaches the unsearchable riches of Christ to Gentiles, underscoring that this revelation was not about Paul's own worth but about God's plan for all people.
The context also includes references to the 'administration of that grace' (Ephesians 3:2), which ties back to his earlier ministry and the broader work of God in Ephesians 1-2. These verses provide a framework for understanding how this revelation fits into Paul's overall message about unity between Jews and Gentiles through faith in Christ. The use of 'administration' suggests an organized, intentional plan by God, which aligns with his eternal purpose mentioned later (Ephesians 3:11).
The Mystery Revealed to the Saints
Paul describes a mystery that was not known in earlier generations but has now been revealed through the Spirit to holy apostles and prophets (Ephesians 3:5). The term 'mystery' here refers specifically to God's plan for Gentiles, which was previously hidden but is now made clear. This revelation aligns with other parts of Ephesians, such as Ephesians 1:9-10, where the eternal purpose of God in Christ Jesus is discussed. These passages highlight that Paul's message is not new information but a deepening and clarification of earlier truths.
The 'administration' mentioned (Ephesians 3:2) refers to how God has been working through grace toward the Gentiles. This term suggests an organized, strategic approach by God in his dealings with humanity, which includes both Jews and Gentiles. The fact that this plan was hidden until now adds a layer of divine timing, emphasizing that God's purposes are not always immediately apparent but unfold according to his will.
Paul emphasizes the role of the Spirit in revealing these truths (Ephesians 3:5). This is significant because it shows that understanding and interpreting God's Word requires guidance from the Holy Spirit. The Spirit enables believers, particularly apostles and prophets, to grasp the full implications of God's revelation about Gentiles being included in his promises through faith in Christ.
This connection with other parts of Ephesians underscores a consistent theme: that salvation is not limited to Israel but extends to all who believe (Ephesians 2:11-13). This broader perspective aligns with the overall message of unity and inclusion found throughout the letter, as seen in further passages like Ephesians 4:4-6. The revelation Paul describes here deepens that understanding by showing how God's grace is extended to Gentiles through Christ.
The Inclusion of Gentiles in God's Promises
A central teaching in Ephesians 3:6 is that the Gentiles are now 'fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of his promise in Christ Jesus through the Good News' (Ephesians 3:6). This passage directly challenges earlier Jewish expectations about salvation being exclusive to Israel. The term 'fellow heirs' suggests a shared inheritance with Jews, which was not previously recognized or understood within the Old Testament context.
The phrase 'fellow members of the body' draws from Paul's metaphor in Ephesians 1:22-23 and Ephesians 4:4-6 about the Church being the Body of Christ. By including Gentiles as part of this body, Paul affirms that they are fully integrated into God's family through faith in Jesus Christ. This contrasts with earlier beliefs among some Jewish Christians who might have viewed Gentile converts as outsiders or second-class members.
The reference to 'fellow partakers of his promise' (Ephesians 3:6) points back to the covenantal promises made by God, which are now extended to all who believe in Christ. This aligns with other parts of Ephesians, such as Ephesians 2:12-13, where Paul describes how Gentiles were once 'without hope' but have now received a new identity through faith in Jesus.
The inclusion of the phrase 'through the Good News' (Ephesians 3:6) emphasizes that this revelation is made known not only by God's grace but also through the preaching of the Gospel. This connects with Paul's role as an apostle and preacher, as seen in other passages like Ephesians 1:20-23 and Ephesians 4:11-16. It shows that while this revelation is divinely inspired, it requires human proclamation to be fully realized.
Paul's Role as a Servant of God's Grace
In Ephesians 3:7, Paul refers to himself as 'a servant according to the gift of that grace of God which was given me according to the working of his power.' This highlights both his humility and the divine origin of his mission. The term 'servant' is important because it positions Paul not as a hero or leader but as someone who serves by God's will, echoing Jesus' own example in Mark 10:43-45.
The phrase 'gift of that grace of God' underscores the idea that Paul's ministry was not based on his own abilities but on the divine favor extended to him. This connects with other parts of Ephesians where God's grace is emphasized, such as in Ephesians 1:6-7 and Ephesians 2:8-9. It reinforces the notion that salvation and even the ability to preach are gifts from God.
The 'working of his power' (Ephesians 3:7) suggests that Paul's effectiveness in ministry is not due to human effort but to God's active involvement. This idea aligns with other parts of Ephesians, like Ephesians 1:19-20 and Ephesians 6:10-13, where the power of the Spirit is central to Christian living and mission.
This self-perception as a servant rather than a leader reflects Paul's broader theology in Ephesians. He consistently downplays his own role while emphasizing God's initiative, grace, and purpose (Ephesians 1:9-10; Ephesians 2:10). This humility is not just personal but also serves as an example for all believers to follow.
The Unsearchable Riches of Christ
Paul refers to the 'unsearchable riches of Christ' (Ephesians 3:8) in a way that emphasizes both their depth and divine origin. The word 'unsearchable' suggests that these riches are beyond human comprehension, yet they are made known through faith in Jesus Christ. This aligns with other parts of Ephesians where God's wisdom is described as 'manifold' (Ephesians 3:10) and his love as surpassing knowledge (Ephesians 3:19).
The idea that these riches are 'preached to the Gentiles' (Ephesians 3:8) underscores Paul's mission to those outside of Israel. This is consistent with other parts of Ephesians where he talks about unity between Jews and Gentiles, such as in Ephesians 2:11-17. It also echoes his broader teaching that the Gospel is for all people (Ephesians 1:9-10; Ephesians 4:4-6).
Paul's emphasis on these 'unsearchable riches' reflects a deep theological understanding of Christ as the source of all spiritual blessings. This idea connects with other parts of Ephesians where Jesus is described as the head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23) and as the one who reconciles people to God (Ephesians 2:14-16). It shows that Paul sees his mission not just as evangelism but also as a revelation of Christ's fullness.
The term 'riches' is significant because it points toward the abundance of God's grace, which includes forgiveness, salvation, and spiritual growth. This aligns with other parts of Ephesians where believers are encouraged to be strengthened by God's power (Ephesians 3:16), rooted in love (Ephesians 3:17), and filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). Paul's description here reflects a vision of Christ that is both expansive and deeply personal.
The Mystery of God's Plan Revealed
Paul emphasizes that the mystery of God's plan has been hidden for ages but now revealed (Ephesians 3:9). This revelation includes not only the inclusion of Gentiles in Christ but also the broader purpose behind it. The idea of a 'mystery' suggests something previously unknown or obscure, which is now made clear through divine intervention and the work of the Holy Spirit.
The mystery was hidden by God himself (Ephesians 3:9), showing that its revelation is not merely human insight but part of God's eternal plan. This aligns with other parts of Ephesians where God's purposes are described as being fulfilled in Christ, such as in Ephesians 1:9-10 and Ephesians 2:10. It highlights the sovereignty of God over both past and future events.
Paul connects this revelation to the 'manifold wisdom of God' (Ephesians 3:10), which is now made known through the Church. This shows that the inclusion of Gentiles is not just about individual salvation but also about displaying God's wisdom in a way that even angels and rulers in heavenly places can see (Ephesians 3:10). The term 'manifold' emphasizes both the diversity and depth of this wisdom, which cannot be fully understood by human minds alone.
The revelation of this mystery is tied to God's eternal purpose, as mentioned in Ephesians 3:11. This suggests that even though the mystery was hidden for a time, it was always part of God's plan from before creation (Ephesians 3:9). The inclusion of Gentiles and the unity between Jews and Gentiles are not new ideas but fulfill a purpose that has been in place since the beginning.
For more on this passage, see Ephesians 3 Bible Study.
For more on this passage, see Ephesians 6 Bible Study.
Biblical fidelity check
Reading Ephesians 3:3-6 carefully is essential to grasp its full meaning. At first glance, it may seem like Paul is simply stating that Gentiles are now part of God's promises through Christ. However, the text reveals a deeper theological truth about God's eternal plan and how he has been working toward this unity all along. A common misinterpretation might be to reduce these verses to a simple inclusion of Gentiles without considering their place within God's broader purpose. This passage must be read in context with other parts of Ephesians, especially where the Church is described as the Body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 4 Bible Study). It also aligns with the idea that God's purposes are not new but have been unfolding throughout history, as seen in Ephesians 1:9-10 and Ephesians 1 Bible Study. What stays central is the revelation that God's grace extends to all who believe, not just Israel. This passage does not promise guaranteed success or emotional relief but emphasizes the mystery of God's plan and how it is revealed through Christ.
Frequently asked questions
What does Ephesians 3:6 mean about Gentiles being fellow heirs?
Ephesians 3:6 teaches that Gentiles are now 'fellow heirs' with Jews in God's promises. This means they share the same inheritance through faith in Christ, which was not part of earlier Jewish expectations. The passage reveals a divine plan to include all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their ethnic background.
How does Paul explain his role as an apostle to the Gentiles?
Paul describes himself as 'the very least of all saints' (Ephesians 3:8) and a servant by God's grace. His mission is not based on human merit but on divine calling. He emphasizes that he preaches the 'unsearchable riches of Christ' to Gentiles, showing that his work is part of God's eternal purpose revealed through Jesus.
What does it mean for the Church to be the Body of Christ in Ephesians 3?
Ephesians 3:6 and other passages like Ephesians 4 describe the Church as the Body of Christ, with Gentiles included as full members. This means that through faith in Jesus, all believers, Jew and Gentile, are united under one Head, reflecting God's plan for unity among his people.
