Understanding Paul's Knowledge in the Mystery Ephesians 3:4

Paul the apostle declared how God “by revelation” “made known to” him “the mystery” of how the Gentiles were extended the opportunity for Salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul wrote to the Ephesians before about this idea, and in chapter three and verse four of his letter, he continued his thought so the Ephesians might “understand” his “knowledge in the mystery of Christ” where we read:

Whereby, when you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

The verse begins, “Whereby, when you read, you may understand...” Paul began with the word, “Whereby” which means “to the advantage of, at, near, by, towards, with and with regard to”, “when you read” or “distinguish between, recognize, know accurately and acknowledge”, “you may understand” which means “perceive with the mind, think upon, heed, ponder and consider”. Paul wrote to the Ephesians to have them “understand” the “mystery” which was entrusted to him by God.

The verse goes on to say, “...my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)” Paul added, “my knowledge” or “Paul's flowing together, understanding and his mind so far forth as it understands” “in the mystery” which refers to “the hidden thing, secret, purpose or counsel” “of Christ” which refers to “the anointed One, Messiah and Son of God”. Paul understood God's desire to reach the Gentiles as well as the Jews, and he wanted the Ephesians to know it as well.

When we meditate upon these words of Paul, we see his desire for the Ephesians to understand this “mystery of Christ”. The Ephesians as well as all Gentiles were to be included in the Salvation plan and gospel of Jesus Christ. Though this was “a mystery” before Paul unveiled it, he shared it with not only the Ephesians but also with us as well. May we appreciate and give praise to God Almighty for revealing his “secret” plan through Paul the apostle.

Next time Paul shares how this “mystery” was “not made known” “in other ages”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

Look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, and the new devotional “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore.