The "Prophecy of the Mystery of the Gospel" refers to the divine revelation and unfolding of God's redemptive plan for humanity, which was once hidden but has been made known through Jesus Christ. This mystery, long concealed, is a central theme in the New Testament and is pivotal to understanding the scope and inclusivity of the Gospel message.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul is the primary New Testament figure who expounds on the mystery of the Gospel. In his epistles, Paul frequently speaks of this mystery as a revelation that was hidden for ages but is now disclosed to the saints. In Ephesians 3:4-6 , Paul writes, "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. 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."

Old Testament Foreshadowing

While the full revelation of the mystery was not made known until the New Testament era, the Old Testament contains numerous prophecies and types that foreshadow the inclusion of the Gentiles and the universal scope of the Gospel. For instance, God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3 states, "And I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." This promise hints at a future blessing that extends beyond the Jewish people to all nations.

Revelation in Christ

The mystery of the Gospel is fully revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfills the prophecies and types of the Old Testament, inaugurating a new covenant that includes both Jews and Gentiles. Colossians 1:26-27 articulates this revelation: "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."

The Role of the Church

The Church plays a crucial role in the unfolding of this mystery. As the body of Christ, the Church is the instrument through which the manifold wisdom of God is made known. Ephesians 3:10-11 states, "His purpose was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Implications for Believers

The revelation of the mystery of the Gospel has profound implications for believers. It underscores the unity of all believers in Christ, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. This unity is a testament to the power of the Gospel to transcend human divisions and create a new humanity in Christ. Believers are called to live out this mystery by embodying the love and grace of Christ, serving as witnesses to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Eschatological Dimension

The mystery of the Gospel also has an eschatological dimension, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The full realization of this mystery will occur at the return of Christ, when all things are brought under His lordship and the new creation is consummated. Until that time, believers are entrusted with the stewardship of this mystery, proclaiming the Gospel to all nations and living in anticipation of Christ's return.