The concept of the "mystery of the faith" is a profound theme woven throughout the New Testament, inviting believers to delve deeper into the divine truths revealed through Jesus Christ. The term "mystery" in the biblical context does not imply something unknowable; rather, it refers to truths that were once hidden but have now been revealed by God.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul frequently uses the term "mystery" to describe the divine plan of salvation that was once concealed but is now made manifest through Christ. In 1 Timothy 3:9, Paul exhorts deacons to "hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience" . This indicates that the mystery of the faith is not merely an intellectual assent but involves a moral and spiritual commitment.

Christ as the Fulfillment of the Mystery

Central to understanding the mystery of the faith is recognizing Christ as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. In Colossians 1:26-27, Paul writes, "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 encompasses the inclusion of the Gentiles into the covenant community and the indwelling presence of Christ in believers.

The Gospel and the Mystery

The gospel itself is described as a mystery. In Ephesians 6:19, Paul requests prayer "that I may proclaim the mystery of the gospel" . The gospel reveals the righteousness of God and the means by which humanity can be reconciled to Him through faith in Jesus Christ. This mystery, once hidden, is now proclaimed openly to all nations.

The Church and the Mystery

The church plays a crucial role in the unfolding of this mystery. Ephesians 3:9-10 states, "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 the vessel through which God's wisdom and the mystery of His will are displayed to the world and even to the heavenly realms.

The Mystery of Godliness

Another aspect of the mystery of the faith is the mystery of godliness. In 1 Timothy 3:16, Paul declares, "By common confession, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was proclaimed among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory" . This encapsulates the incarnation, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, highlighting the profound nature of God's work in Christ.

Living Out the Mystery

Believers are called to live in a manner worthy of the mystery they have received. Colossians 2:2-3 encourages believers "that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" . This involves a life of faith, love, and growing in the knowledge of Christ.

Conclusion

The mystery of the faith is a divine revelation that encompasses the person and work of Jesus Christ, the inclusion of all people into God's redemptive plan, and the role of the church in manifesting God's wisdom. It calls for a response of faith, moral integrity, and a commitment to living out the truths revealed in Christ.