The concept of "the mystery" in the Bible refers to divine truths that were once hidden but have now been revealed through the gospel of Jesus Christ. This mystery is central to the New Testament teachings, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. The purpose of the mystery is multifaceted, encompassing God's redemptive plan for humanity, the unification of Jews and Gentiles, and the revelation of Christ's indwelling presence in believers.

Revelation of the Mystery

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the mystery in his epistles, emphasizing its divine origin and the role of the apostles and prophets in its revelation. In Ephesians 3:3-5 , Paul writes, "that by revelation the mystery was made known to me, 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 men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets."

The Mystery of Christ

Central to the mystery is the revelation of Christ Himself. Colossians 1:26-27 states, "the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." This passage highlights the indwelling presence of Christ in believers, a profound truth that was previously concealed.

Unification of Jews and Gentiles

Another significant aspect of the mystery is the unification of Jews and Gentiles into one body, the Church. Ephesians 3:6 explains, "This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are fellow heirs, fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus." This inclusion of the Gentiles was a radical departure from the Old Testament understanding of God's covenant people and underscores the universal scope of the gospel.

The Church as the Manifestation of the Mystery

The Church itself is a manifestation of the mystery, serving as the body of Christ on earth. Ephesians 5:32 refers to the relationship between Christ and the Church as a profound mystery: "This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church." The Church is called to display the manifold wisdom of God, as stated in Ephesians 3:10 : "so that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms."

The Mystery of Godliness

The mystery also encompasses the truth of godliness, as articulated in 1 Timothy 3:16 : "By common confession, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was proclaimed among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory." This encapsulates the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ, forming the foundation of Christian faith and practice.

The Role of Believers

Believers are entrusted with the stewardship of this mystery, called to live in a manner worthy of their calling and to proclaim the gospel to all nations. Colossians 4:3 urges believers to pray for opportunities to declare the mystery: "And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains."

In summary, the purpose of the mystery is to reveal God's redemptive plan through Christ, unite all believers into one body, and manifest His wisdom through the Church. This divine revelation calls believers to a life of faith, unity, and proclamation of the gospel.