Understanding Ephesians 3:9
Ephesians 3:9 states, "And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ." This verse emphasizes the revelation of God's divine plan for humanity through Jesus Christ, which had been concealed throughout history until the time of the New Testament.
Contextual Background
In order to grasp the meaning of Ephesians 3:9, it's essential to understand its context within the Apostle Paul's broader letter to the Ephesians. Ephesians emphasizes the mystery of the church and the unity of believers in Christ, a theme central to Paul's teaching. He illustrates how Gentiles, once excluded from God's promises, are now included in the salvation plan.
Verse Meaning
This verse contains several key theological insights:
- Fellowship of the Mystery: The term "mystery" refers to the truths that were previously hidden but are now revealed through the Gospel. This includes the unity of both Jews and Gentiles in Christ (Galatians 3:28).
- Divine Revelation: The "fellowship of the mystery" signifies the communal bond among believers who share in the understanding of God's hidden plan, now unveiled (1 Corinthians 2:7).
- Creation through Christ: The affirmation that all things were created by Jesus highlights His divine authority and role in the creation narrative (John 1:3).
- God's Sovereignty: The verse underscores that God's purposes are sovereign, executed not by chance, but according to His eternal plan.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry notes that the "mystery" refers specifically to the inclusion of the Gentiles into the same body as the Jews. He explains that Paul, as a minister to the Gentiles, is tasked with revealing this mystery to the world, which serves as the very foundation of Christian fellowship.
Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes emphasizes the gravity of the Apostle Paul's mission. He states that making all men see this mystery involved both preaching and living out the truths of the Gospel. Barnes also points out that this message encompasses the entirety of God's creation plan and the role of faith in understanding it.
Adam Clarke
Adam Clarke expands on the implications of this verse by underscoring how it speaks to the transformational aspect of the Gospel. Clarke points to the idea that knowledge of this mystery brings hope and encouragement to believers, facilitating a deeper fellowship among them.
Application to Daily Life
Understanding Ephesians 3:9 encourages believers to:
- Embrace the unity of faith across denominations and ethnicities, recognizing that all believers are part of God's family.
- Engage in discussions about biblical mysteries and share insights within Bible study groups, reinforcing communal understanding.
- Reflect on the creative power of Christ in their lives, acknowledging His sovereign hand in both creation and in their personal journeys.
Cross References
- Romans 16:25-26: Paul's reference to the revelation of the mystery made known to all nations.
- Galatians 3:28: The concept of unity in Christ, eliminating distinctions among believers.
- Colossians 1:26-27: The mystery of Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Conclusion
In summary, Ephesians 3:9 is a profound verse that encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's mysterious plan of salvation now made clear through Jesus Christ. Understanding this verse provides deep insights into the riches of Christ's ministry and how believers can find their identity and purpose within this divine fellowship.
