The concept of "The Mystery of God's Will" is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, revealing the divine purpose and plan that God has set forth from eternity. This mystery, once hidden, has been progressively unveiled through the revelation of Jesus Christ and the teachings of the apostles.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul speaks explicitly about the mystery of God's will in his epistle to the Ephesians. 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 is centered on Christ and God's ultimate plan to unite all things under His lordship.

The Nature of the Mystery

The term "mystery" in the biblical context does not imply something that is incomprehensible or unsolvable. Instead, it refers to a divine truth that was once concealed but has now been revealed by God. The mystery of God's will encompasses several key elements:

1. Redemption and Salvation: Central to the mystery is the redemptive work of Christ. 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 reveals that salvation through Christ is available to all, both Jews and Gentiles, and that Christ dwells within believers, offering the hope of eternal glory.

2. The Inclusion of the Gentiles: Another aspect of the mystery is the inclusion of the Gentiles into the covenant promises of God. Ephesians 3:6 declares, "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 was a radical revelation in the early church, breaking down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile and forming one new humanity in Christ.

3. The Church as the Body of Christ: The mystery also involves the formation of the Church as the body of Christ. Ephesians 5:32 refers to the relationship between Christ and the Church as a profound mystery. The Church is depicted as the bride of Christ, united with Him in a spiritual and eternal bond.

The Revelation of the Mystery

The revelation of the mystery of God's will is attributed to the work of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 2:10 , Paul writes, "But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God." The Holy Spirit illuminates the hearts and minds of believers, enabling them to comprehend the depths of God's plan and purpose.

The Purpose of the Mystery

The ultimate purpose of revealing the mystery of God's will is to glorify God and fulfill His eternal plan. Ephesians 3:10-11 states, "His intent 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." The Church, as the embodiment of this mystery, serves as a testament to God's wisdom and sovereignty.

Living in Light of the Mystery

Believers are called to live in light of the revealed mystery, walking in faith and obedience. Colossians 4:3 encourages prayer for opportunities to proclaim the mystery of Christ: "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." Understanding the mystery of God's will compels Christians to share the gospel and live out their faith with a sense of purpose and urgency.

In summary, the mystery of God's will is a divine revelation that encompasses the redemptive work of Christ, the inclusion of the Gentiles, and the formation of the Church. It is a testament to God's eternal purpose and is made known through the Holy Spirit, calling believers to live in accordance with this profound truth.