Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. 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.
Paul made an amazing transformation: from the man who stood by holding the cloaks of those who stoned Stephen and the man who encouraged persecution of Christians, to the man whom God chose to begin preaching the message of the Gospel to the world.
He talks about a mystery surrounding Jesus Christ, but we have to understand that this mystery is one that was revealed in Christ. Until the time of his birth, death and resurrection, there was great mystery in what the prophets wrote about the coming of the Messiah.
Paul then writes that the mystery is even greater than what they originally thought. Through the gospel (gospel means good news) of Jesus Christ, the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel of the promise. No one will be left out … everyone is invited to become members of God’s household.
For the people in Ephesus and surrounding areas, this was big news. Up until the time of Jesus Christ, only those who were members of the twelve tribes of Israel or who had been circumcised and joined the faith were give any type of hope of eternal life.
God’s grace is available to all, no matter who they are. They mystery has been revealed. Jesus Christ’s sacrifice flung open the gates of heaven so all could enter.
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