15. Mystery of his will.

The eternal purpose behind the will of God was a ‘mystery that was kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints.’ – (Colossians 1:26) It ‘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.’ – (Ephesians 3:5)
The mysteries of God are:

1. Christ : Jesus himself is a mystery! ‘Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness ( God likeness in Jesus) is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels … was taken up in glory.’ – (2 Timothy 3:16) God desires that we ‘may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that we may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.’ – (Colossians 2:2-3)

2. Christ in us: Christ living in us is yet another mystery! ‘God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.’ – (Colossians 1:27) This union between Christ and his bride, the Church, in itself ‘is a profound mystery’ – (Ephesians 5:32). But ‘if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ’ – (Romans 8:9) and will not share in his glory.

3. Gentiles heirs together with Israel through Christ: And its also a mystery how the two have become one in Christ! ‘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.’ – (Ephesians 3:6) ‘His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace.’ – (Ephesians 2:15) Amen.