The concept of the "mystery" in the Bible often refers to divine truths that were once hidden but have now been revealed through God's revelation. The mystery of God's salvation plan is a central theme in Christian theology, encapsulating the unfolding of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ. This mystery, once concealed, is now made known to believers through the Scriptures and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of this mystery in his epistles. In Ephesians 1:9-10 , Paul writes, "And He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ." This passage highlights that the mystery of God's will is centered on Christ and His unifying work in creation.

In Colossians 1:26-27 , Paul further elaborates, "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." Here, the mystery involves the indwelling of Christ in believers, a profound truth that extends the promise of salvation beyond the Jewish people to include Gentiles.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The Old Testament contains numerous foreshadowings of God's salvation plan, though the full understanding of these prophecies was not revealed until the New Testament. For instance, the promise to Abraham that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:3) hints at a universal plan of salvation. The sacrificial system, the Passover lamb, and the prophecies of a coming Messiah all serve as types and shadows pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

Revelation in Christ

The mystery of salvation is fully revealed in the person and work of Jesus Christ. His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection are the pivotal events through which God's plan is accomplished. In 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 , Paul states, "No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory."

The crucifixion, a seemingly tragic event, is revealed as the means by which God reconciles humanity to Himself. Through Christ's atoning sacrifice, the barrier of sin is removed, and believers are granted access to eternal life.

The Role of the Church

The Church plays a crucial role in the unfolding of this mystery. Ephesians 3:9-10 explains, "and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 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." The Church is tasked with proclaiming the gospel, revealing God's wisdom, and living as a testament to His redemptive work.

The Mystery of Faith

The mystery of God's salvation plan is also a mystery of faith. It requires a response of belief and trust in God's promises. As Paul writes in Romans 16:25-26 , "Now to Him who is able to strengthen you by my gospel and by the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past but now revealed and made known through the writings of the prophets by the command of the eternal God, to lead all nations to the obedience that comes from faith."

Eschatological Fulfillment

The mystery of God's salvation plan will reach its ultimate fulfillment in the eschaton, when Christ returns to establish His kingdom in its fullness. Revelation 10:7 speaks of the completion of this mystery: "But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound his trumpet, the mystery of God will be fulfilled, just as He proclaimed to His servants the prophets."

In summary, the mystery of God's salvation plan is a profound and multifaceted truth that encompasses God's eternal purpose, revealed in Christ, and made manifest through the Church. It invites believers into a deeper understanding of God's redemptive work and calls them to participate in His mission to the world.