Ephesians 3:5 Study Bible: which in other generations was not made known to people, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit;

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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.

Study Bible

which was not made known
This phrase emphasizes the mystery of the Gospel that was hidden in previous ages. The Greek word for "made known" is "γνωρίζω" (gnōrizō), which means to make known or declare. Historically, God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ was not fully disclosed to previous generations. This highlights the progressive revelation of God's redemptive plan, which was concealed in the Old Testament but is now unveiled in the New Testament era.

to men in other generations
The term "generations" refers to the people of past ages. In the context of biblical history, this includes the patriarchs, prophets, and the nation of Israel. The mystery of Christ and the inclusion of the Gentiles into God's covenant was not fully understood by these earlier generations. This underscores the unfolding nature of God's revelation, which was gradually disclosed over time.

as it has now been revealed
The word "revealed" comes from the Greek "ἀποκαλύπτω" (apokalyptō), meaning to uncover or unveil. This signifies a divine disclosure that was previously hidden. The use of "now" indicates the present time of the apostolic age, where the full revelation of the mystery of Christ is made clear. This revelation is a pivotal moment in salvation history, marking the transition from shadow to substance.

by the Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the agent of revelation, illuminating the minds of the apostles and prophets. The Spirit's role is crucial in understanding divine mysteries, as He guides believers into all truth (John 16:13). This emphasizes the necessity of the Spirit's work in revealing God's purposes, which human wisdom alone cannot comprehend.

to God’s holy apostles and prophets
The apostles and prophets are the foundational leaders of the early church, entrusted with the revelation of the mystery of Christ. The term "holy" signifies their consecration and dedication to God's service. In the New Testament context, apostles were those directly commissioned by Christ, while prophets were inspired to speak God's message. This highlights the authoritative role they played in communicating divine truths to the church.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus to explain the mystery of Christ and the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the body of Christ.

2. Holy Apostles
These are the chosen messengers of Christ, including Paul, who were given the task of spreading the Gospel and establishing the early church.

3. Prophets
In the New Testament context, these are individuals who were given divine insight and revelation to communicate God’s will to the church.

4. The Spirit
Refers to the Holy Spirit, who is the revealer of divine mysteries and the one who empowers the apostles and prophets to understand and communicate God’s truth.

5. Other Generations
This refers to the people of the Old Testament era who did not have the full revelation of the mystery of Christ that was later revealed in the New Testament.

Teaching Points

The Progressive Revelation of God’s Plan
God’s plan of salvation and the inclusion of the Gentiles was progressively revealed, culminating in the New Testament era. This teaches us about the unfolding nature of God’s revelation and His perfect timing.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Revelation
The Holy Spirit is the divine agent who reveals God’s mysteries. Believers today are encouraged to rely on the Spirit for understanding and wisdom in spiritual matters.

Unity in the Body of Christ
The revelation of the mystery underscores the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ. This calls us to embrace unity and diversity within the church, recognizing that all believers are part of one body.

The Authority of Apostles and Prophets
The apostles and prophets were foundational to the church, having received direct revelation from God. This highlights the importance of adhering to the teachings of Scripture as the authoritative word of God.

The Importance of Scripture Study
Since the mystery has been revealed through the apostles and prophets, studying Scripture is crucial for understanding God’s will and purpose for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the progressive revelation of God’s plan affect your view of the Old and New Testaments?

2. In what ways can you rely more on the Holy Spirit for guidance and understanding in your daily life?

3. How can the unity of Jews and Gentiles in Christ inspire you to promote unity within your own church community?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are adhering to the teachings of the apostles and prophets as found in Scripture?

5. How can you incorporate regular Bible study into your routine to deepen your understanding of God’s revealed mysteries?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Colossians 1:26-27
This passage also speaks about the mystery that was hidden for ages but is now revealed to the saints, emphasizing the indwelling of Christ in believers.

1 Peter 1:10-12
These verses discuss how the prophets of old searched and inquired about the salvation that was to come, which has now been revealed to the apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit.

Romans 16:25-26
Paul speaks of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed through the prophetic writings and made known to all nations.

Sermons

Aspects of the True Gospel Ministry	D. Thomas	Ephesians 3:1-13
Paul's Apostleship to the Gentiles: Introduction	R. Finlayson	Ephesians 3:1-13
The Death of the Tribal Spirit	R.M. Edgar	Ephesians 3:1-13
Dispensational Privileges of the Gentiles	T. Croskery	Ephesians 3:2-5
Christ Partially Revealed to the Prophets	Pasteur Hirsch.	Ephesians 3:4-6
Deep Spiritual Knowledge is Conditional	C. H. Spurgeon.	Ephesians 3:4-6
Need of Divine Revelation	Biblical Treasury	Ephesians 3:4-6
Progressive Revelation	Paul Bayne.	Ephesians 3:4-6
Scripture Reading	Paul Bayne.	Ephesians 3:4-6
Sharing the Privileges	C. H. Spurgeon.	Ephesians 3:4-6
Spiritual Insight	Horace Bushnell, D. D.	Ephesians 3:4-6
The Gospel Inheritance	Paul Bayne.	Ephesians 3:4-6
The Holy Spirit and Preaching	T. L. Cuyler, D. D.	Ephesians 3:4-6
The Reserve of God	J. Pulsford.	Ephesians 3:4-6
The Reserve of God in Relation to His Grace	A. F. Muir, M. A.	Ephesians 3:4-6
The Union of Jews and Believing Gentiles in Christ	E. White.	Ephesians 3:4-6

People

Ephesians, Paul

Places

Ephesus

Topics

Ages, Apostles, Earlier, Generation, Generations, God's, Holy, Human, Power, Prophets, Race, Revealed, Revelation, Sons, Spirit

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Ephesians 3:5

     3203   Holy Spirit, and assurance
     7026   church, leadership
     8270   holiness, set apart
     8366   wisdom, source of

Ephesians 3:2-6

4963 past, the

Ephesians 3:3-6

3281 Holy Spirit, inspiration

Ephesians 3:3-11

1444 revelation, NT

Ephesians 3:4-5

     1115   God, purpose of
     3236   Holy Spirit, and Scripture
     5694   generation
     8135   knowing God, nature of

Ephesians 3:4-6

6694 mystery

Ephesians 3:4-11

1175 God, will of

Ephesians 3:5-6

1403 God, revelation

Library

April 15. "Rooted and Grounded in Love" (Eph. Iii. 17).
"Rooted and grounded in love" (Eph. iii. 17). There is a very singular shrub, which grows abundantly in the west, and is to be found in all parts of Texas. It is no less than the "mosquito tree." It is a very slim, and willowy looking shrub, and would seem to be of little use for any industrial purposes; but is has extraordinary roots growing like great timbers underground, and possessing such qualities of endurance in all situations that it is used and very highly valued for good pavements. The …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

August 28. "According to the Power that Worketh in Us" (Eph. Iii. 20).
"According to the power that worketh in us" (Eph. iii. 20). When we reach the place of union with God, through the indwelling of the Holy Ghost, we come into the inheritance of external blessing and enter upon the land of our possession. Then our physical health and strength come to us through the power of our interior life; then the prayer is fulfilled, that we shall be in health and prosper, as our soul prospereth. Then, with the kingdom of God and His righteousness within us, all things are added …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity Paul's Care and Prayer for the Church.
Text: Ephesians 3, 13-21. 13. Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory. 14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 and that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inward man; 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be strong …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

'The Whole Family'
'The whole family in heaven and earth.'--Eph. iii. 15. Grammatically, we are driven to recognise that the Revised Version is more correct than the Authorised, when it reads 'every family,' instead of 'the whole family.' There is in the expression no reference to the thought, however true it is in itself, that the redeemed in heaven and the believers on earth make up but one family. The thought rather is, that, as has been said, 'the father makes the family,' and if any community of intelligent beings, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Strengthened with Might
'That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory; to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man.'--Eph. iii. 16. In no part of Paul's letters does he rise to a higher level than in his prayers, and none of his prayers are fuller of fervour than this wonderful series of petitions. They open out one into the other like some majestic suite of apartments in a great palace-temple, each leading into a loftier and more spacious hall, each drawing nearer the presence-chamber, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Indwelling Christ
'That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; ye being rooted and grounded in love.'--Eph. iii. 17. We have here the second step of the great staircase by which Paul's fervent desires for his Ephesian friends climbed towards that wonderful summit of his prayers--which is ever approached, never reached,--'that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.' Two remarks of an expository character will prepare the way for the lessons of these verses. The first is as to the relation of this clause …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Paradox of Love's Measure
The breadth, and length, and depth, and height.'--Eph. iii. 18. Of what? There can, I think, be no doubt as to the answer. The next clause is evidently the continuation of the idea begun in that of our text, and it runs: 'And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge.' It is the immeasurable measure, then; the boundless bounds and dimensions of the love of Christ which fire the Apostle's thoughts here. Of course, he had no separate idea in his mind attaching to each of these measures …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Climax of all Prayer
'That ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.'--Eph. iii. 19. The Apostle's many-linked prayer, which we have been considering in successive sermons, has reached its height. It soars to the very Throne of God. There can be nothing above or beyond this wonderful petition. Rather, it might seem as if it were too much to ask, and as if, in the ecstasy of prayer, Paul had forgotten the limits that separate the creature from the Creator, as well as the experience of sinful and imperfect men, …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Love Unknowable and Known
'That ye ... may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.'--Eph. iii. 18, 19. This constitutes the third of the petitions in this great prayer of Paul's, each of which, as we have had occasion to see in former sermons, rises above, and is a consequence of the preceding, and leads on to, and is a cause or occasion of the subsequent one. The two former petitions have been for inward strength …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

Measureless Power and Endless Glory
'Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21. Unto Him be glory in the Church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.'--Eph. iii. 20, 21. One purpose and blessing of faithful prayer is to enlarge the desires which it expresses, and to make us think more loftily of the grace to which we appeal. So the Apostle, in the wonderful series of supplications which precedes the text, has found his …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John

The Christian Church a Family.
Preached January 11, 1852. THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH A FAMILY. "Our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named."--Ephesians iii. 14, 15. In the verses immediately before the text the Apostle Paul has been speaking of what he calls a mystery--that is, a revealed secret. And the secret was this, that the Gentiles would be "fellow-heirs and of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ by the gospel." It had been kept secret from the former ages and generations; …
Frederick W. Robertson—Sermons Preached at Brighton

The Measure of the Cross
EPHESIANS iii. 18, 19. That ye may be able to comprehend with all saints, what is the breadth and length and depth and height, and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge. These words are very deep, and difficult to understand; for St. Paul does not tell us exactly of what he is speaking. He does not say what it is, the breadth and length, and depth, and height of which we are to comprehend and take in. Only he tells us afterwards what will come of our taking it in; we shall know the …
Charles Kingsley—The Good News of God

Past Knowledge.
(Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity.) EPHESIANS iii. 19. "To know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge." There are some things which no earthly school can teach us, no earthly science explain. Science can do very much, it has done marvellous things, and will do still more. Men can work now with ease such wonders as would have sent them to the fire as wizards three hundred years ago. Science can calculate the exact time of an eclipse ages before the time, science can connect two worlds with the …
H. J. Wilmot-Buxton—The Life of Duty, a Year's Plain Sermons, v. 2

First Day for the Power of the Holy Spirit
WHAT TO PRAY.--For the Power of the Holy Spirit "I bow my knees unto the Father, that He would grant you that ye may be strengthened with power through His Spirit."--EPH. iii. 16. "Wait for the promise of the Father."--ACTS i. 4. "The fuller manifestation of the grace and energy of the Blessed Spirit of God, in the removal of all that is contrary to God's revealed will, so that we grieve not the Holy Spirit, but that He may work in mightier power in the Church, for the exaltation of Christ and …
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession

Strength and Indwelling.
"For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of Whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that …
W. H. Griffith Thomas—The Prayers of St. Paul

The Love of Christ.
THE Patience of Christ was recently the object of our meditation in these pages. Blessed and inexhaustible it is. And now a still greater theme is before our hearts. The Love of Christ. The heart almost shrinks from attempting to write on the matchless, unfathomable love of our blessed and adorable Lord. All the Saints of God who have spoken and written on the Love of Christ have never told out its fulness and vastness, its heights and its depths. "The Love of Christ which passeth knowledge" (Ephesians …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory

The Holy Spirit Forming Christ Within Us.
It is a wonderful and deeply significant prayer that Paul offers in Eph. iii. 16-19 for the believers in Ephesus and for all believers who read the Epistle. Paul writes, "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, that ye may be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inward man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and …
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit

"Love that Passeth Knowledge. "
"To know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge." (Ephesians iii. 19.) If I could only make men understand the real meaning of the words of the apostle John--"God is love," I would take that single text, and would go up and down the world proclaiming this glorious truth. If you can convince a man that you love him you have won his heart. If we really make people believe that God loves them, how we should find them crowding into the kingdom of heaven! The trouble is that men think God hates them; …
Dwight L. Moody—The Way to God and How to Find It

Another Archbishop
Paul did not say, Let everyone desire the episcopate. It is a work, not a relaxation; a solicitude, not a luxury; a responsible ministration, not an irresponsible dominion; a fatherly supervision, not a tyrannical autocracy.--Isidore of Pelusium, Ep. iii. 216. Nectarius, then, on September 27, 397, lay dead in his splendid palace; and the breath was hardly out of the Archbishop's body when there were a dozen austere intriguers' in the field, and the subterranean plots and whisperings began, and the …
Frederic William Farrar—Gathering Clouds: A Tale of the Days of St. Chrysostom

His Dwelling-Place
T. S. M. Eph. iii. 17 Thou knewest not where to lay Thy head; When over the twilight sea The birds of the mountains homeward sped, There was no home for Thee. But God had prepared for the weary feet A home when the toil was past, And there, in His chamber still and sweet, O Lord, Thou shouldst rest at last. A Home to be won by deadly fight, The price to be paid in blood-- Oh where is that palace of fair delight, That glorious Home of God? The City that hath foundations shone To Abram's eyes of …
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen, Suso, and Others

The Apology of Rufinus.
Addressed to Apronianus, in Reply to Jerome's Letter to Pammachius, [2814] Written at Aquileia a.d. 400. In Two Books. In order to understand the controversy between Jerome and Rufinus it is necessary to look back over their earlier relations. They had been close friends in early youth (Jerome, Ep. iii, 3, v, 2.) and had together formed part of a society of young Christian ascetics at Aquileia in the years 370-3. Jerome's letter (3) to Rufinus in 374 is full of affection; in 381 he was placed in …
Various—Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.

Whether Only a Bishop Can Confer this Sacrament?
Objection 1: It seems that not only a bishop can confer this sacrament. For Gregory (Regist. iv), writing to Bishop Januarius, says: "We hear that some were scandalized because we forbade priests to anoint with chrism those who have been baptized. Yet in doing this we followed the ancient custom of our Church: but if this trouble some so very much we permit priests, where no bishop is to be had, to anoint the baptized on the forehead with chrism." But that which is essential to the sacraments should …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

"And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because of Sin; but the Spirit is Life Because of Righteousness. "
Rom. viii. 10.--"And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness." God's presence is his working. His presence in a soul by his Spirit is his working in such a soul in some special manner, not common to all men, but peculiar to them whom he hath chosen. Now his dwelling is nothing else but a continued, familiar and endless working in a soul, till he hath conformed all within to the image of his Son. The soul is the office house, or workhouse, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

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