INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Mystery Received by Revelation (Uncovering)
2. The Mystery Recorded by Recollection (Inspiration)
3. The Mystery Read for Realization (Understanding)
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing a theme: “the mystery of Christ.” First, the word “mystery” means to “keep hid until it is time to be made known.” Further, the word “revelation” means to uncover, to reveal or to be made known. God has kept hid His mystery until the time in which he desired to reveal it by the Holy Spirit. Finally, the mystery was designed to be “understood” but, that was only possible through “reading” the words written by the apostle.
2. First, we will consider how the mystery was uncovered to the world. Paul writes: “How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery.” He affirms that God made known unto him “the mystery of Christ” through direct revelation. God uncovered the mystery unto the Apostles and Prophets by the Spirit. This mystery was kept hid “from the foundation of the world; but, was manifested in due times by the Spirit.”
3. Second, we will discuss how this “mystery is recorded by recollection (inspiration).” The apostle writes: “As I wrote afore in few words.” He instructed the Ephesians that the mystery as it was uncovered to him by revelation; he wrote it down in just a few words. These words were written by inspiration or by the direction and guidance of God. It must be therefore understood, that these words from God: “were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope,” Romans 15:4.
4. Lastly, we will investigate how the mystery can be read for realization (understanding). Paul continues in our text to write: “Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.” Paul lets the Ephesians know that through their reading of the mystery as he wrote it, they too shall have the same understanding of the “mystery of Christ.” I should stress that they would not have their own or another “understanding”; but, the same “understanding” that the apostle was granted through the “revelation of God.” With this introduction, let’s consider our first point, “The mystery received by revelation (uncovering).”
BODY OF LESSON
I THE MYSTERY RECEIVED BY REVELATION (UNCOVERING)
A. For this cause. This refers to the glorious work of the cross in "making peace and bringing the Gentiles nigh and into the household of God," described in Chapter 2.
1. I, Paul. The verb of which "I, Paul," is the subject, is not given until verse 14, is penned for our reading. The intervening verses are merely parenthetical leading us to his subject later in Chapter 3.
2. In verse 14, Paul repeats the first clause of verse 1; “For this cause”; and then gives the verb and subject: “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,” Ephesians 3:14-15. It is possible now that Paul started his prayer here; and continued it unto verse 21 of this Chapter. And what a splendid prayer this was for the Ephesians. Each petition elicits his blessing for the Gentiles and requires no explanation regarding his requests. Notice:
a) “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;”
b) “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith;”
c) “That you, being rooted and grounded in love,”
d) “That ye may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;”
e) “That ye may know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge,”
f) “That you might be filled with all the fullness of God,” Ephesians 3:16-19.
g) His ending is a burst of praise: “Now to him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen,” Ephesians 3:20-21.
3. He no doubt was diverted by his own words: "The prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles," Ephesians 3:1. God used this beloved apostle to preach Christ unto the entire Gentiles world. But this service was not without persecutions.
B. The prisoner of Jesus Christ. Paul was a prisoner at Rome when this Letter was written, on account of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The word prisoner, in Gr: is “desmios,” which means a captive; (as bound): - in bonds. He confesses to the Ephesians that he was “an ambassador in bonds,” Ephesians 6:19-20; 2 Thessalonians 2:15-16; 2 Timothy 2:10. Paul speaks of being Christ’s prisoner. The Lord had arrested him! Notice:
1. First, he was a prisoner because he was the “servant of the Lord.” To Philemon he wrote: “Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such a one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ,” Philemon 1:9; Philemon 1:1; Ephesians 4:1. Paul was a prisoner of the Lord, for whom? For you Gentiles!
2. Further, he was a prisoner for you Gentiles. It was the hatred held toward him from the Jews on account of his apostleship to the Gentiles, which caused his seizure and imprisonment, in Jerusalem, Acts 21:33; Acts 28:17; Acts 21:20.
3. Finally, it was due to God’s calling. It was due to the commandment of God that he should preach the gospel; “those unsearchable riches of Christ,” unto the Gentiles, Ephesians 3:8.
a. Jesus called him to be a minister and witness. On the road to Damascus the Lord states unto Paul: “But rise, and stand upon thy feet: I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear (reveal) unto thee; delivering thee from the people (Jews), and from the Gentiles, UNTO WHOM now I send thee, to open their eyes, and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me,” Acts 26:16-18.
b. He was called to be an “apostle to the Gentiles.” To the Galatians he writes: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb. And called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen (Gentiles); immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood,” Galatians 1:15-16.
c. He was sent unto the Gentiles. Regarding his appearance before “the big three” in Jerusalem, he writes to the Galatians: “But contrariwise, when they saw (Peter, James and John) that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles),” Galatians 2:7-8. Sent to the Gentiles to preach the gospel:
1) For obedience to the faith: “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostles, separated unto the gospel of God ...By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name,” Romans 1:1-5; Romans 1:16-17; Romans 10:16; Romans 16:25-25. Illustrate: That Form of Doctrine, Romans 6:17-18. Ask you preacher: "What is that form of doctrine that they obeyed?"
2) For the hope of eternal life: “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, ...In hope of eternal life ...which God, promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according the commandment of God our Saviour,” Titus 1:1-3; Titus 3:5-7; 1 Timothy 1:11.
C. If ye have heard. This is not designed to express doubt, but to remind them that they had heard of the dispensation, or office, that had been given him in reference to the Gentiles, while he was among them preaching Christ, Acts 22:21.
1. The word dispensation, Gr: oikonomia, oi-ko-no-mia; which means “an administration (of a household or estate); specially, a (religious) “economy”; -dispensation, a stewardship,” Colossians 1:25. He reminds the Corinthians that: “A steward must be found faithful,” 1 Corinthians 4:1.
2. Paul speaks here of the dispensation of “the fullness of time”; and the “dispensation of the grace of God,” Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 3:2.
D. How that by revelation (uncovering), He (God) made known unto me the “mystery.” Illustrate: God Gave Me a Revelation Today! Say What Reverend?
1. He revealed or uncovered the mystery to me, as an apostles and minister of Christ. It was through divine intervention and instruction I was granted an understanding, “of the mystery of Christ,” Ephesians 3:4; Ephesians 6:19-20; 1 Timothy 3:16.
2. Unknown to the prophets and angels. Peter said: “The object of the gospel, was to our "faith"; and then to the saving of our souls,” 1 Peter 1:9. He sets forth:
a. Of which salvation the prophets have enquired. The prophets used words and symbols, at the dictation of the Holy Spirit of God, of which they did not comprehend their full meaning.
1) The prophets of old. Spoke of Christ and salvation, and then diligently enquired into what the Spirit of Christ in them did signify by these words, 1 Peter 1:10-12.
2) When they testified of ...His sufferings.
a) The prophets testified of the sufferings of Christ, Isaiah 53. But they did not understand the glory which should afterwards be revealed, John 1:29.
b) The disciples heard and were eye witnesses of this suffering; but could not understand the scriptures, until Christ “opened unto them their understanding to the scriptures,” Luke 24:25-26; Luke 24:45-49.
c) Jesus had told them that when: “The Spirit of truth is come, He will guide them into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew them things to come,” John 16:13-15.
b. Paul given this same “guide” that he might fully obtain and understand through the revelation of the “gospel” the “mystery of Christ,” Galatians 1:10-12.
c. Unto whom it was revealed. The prophets were, however, instructed that the subject matter of these prophecies, related to a future time in the world (fullness of time); but, not to their own time did these revelations apply.
1) They did minister the things. Peter continues to write: “The things which were fulfilled by the gospel that was now being preached ...unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into,” 1 Peter 1:12. The time of “uncovering” was during his preaching of the gospel.
2) Paul’s preaching. Paul’s preaching was under the same influence of the Holy Spirit. Notice Paul instructions regarding his preaching through the Holy Ghost:
a) To the Thessalonians he wrote: “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake,” 1 Thessalonians 1:5.
b) To the Corinthians he wrote: “And I brethren, when I came to you, came not with Excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. ...And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
d. Things angels desire to look into. The profound mysteries of the gospel were subjects of earnest inquiry by the angels of heaven, an indication that like the prophets they could not understand “the mystery of Christ” until God had revealed it through His Holy Apostles and Prophets through the Spirit,” Ephesians 3:5.
E. The mystery. This mystery was revealed by God unto the apostle. A mystery is “a truth, or fact, or purpose,” which is hidden until it is time to be revealed.
1. The word mystery, Gr: mysterion, moos-tay'-ree-on; which means, (to shut the mouth); a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites):—mystery. That is to keep hid until the time of “uncovering.”
2. This was Paul's qualification for his calling, his apostleship and the work of Christ among the Gentiles; to make known "the mystery of Christ,” Galatians 1:9.
3. We will discuss more fully the content of this “mystery”; that was kept hid throughout many generations, later in this lesson.
4. Paul mentions it later in our text, Ephesians 3:6. But for now let’s consider: “The mystery recorded by recollection (inspiration).”
II THE MYSTERY RECORDED BY RECOLLECTION (INSPIRATION)
A. As I wrote afore. The word afore, Gr: prographo, pro-gra- pho; which means to “write previously; figuratively, to announce, prescribe: - before ordained, evidently set forth, write (afore, aforetime). He speaks of words spoken of in other letters to the Gentiles churches elsewhere; or what has been written “aforetime” both by the prophets of old; and also by other apostles of the first century, Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 5:9; Jude 1:3-4. Paul Letter here and writing by the other apostles; were done through the inspiration of God. Notice:
1. First, Paul's letter to Timothy: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works,” 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
2. Further, Peter’s Letter to the saints: “Knowing this first that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” 2 Peter 1:20-21.
3. Finally, Peter writes: “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen,” 1 Peter 4:11.
4. Conclusion: Peter and Paul’s writings and spoken words were as a result of the Holy Ghost. This is a "pattern" for ministers and evangelist of today's ministries. Our teaching and preaching must have its origin from the "oracles of God and the Holy Scriptures."
5. Illustrate: Word of God. Jesus said: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God,” Matthew 4:4.
B. In a few words. I wrote of this mystery in only a few words. Not shortly before; but, as in Acts 26:28: “In a brief space or time." I spoke of it “briefly,” Acts 24:4.
1. It would be impossible for me to pen the entire revelation in this short Letter. Space and time would not permit me to convey the “full revelation of the mystery of Christ.” So I have presented it unto you in “a few words”; sufficiently that you too, might understand my knowledge into “the mystery of Christ.”
2. I therefore, share with you in this Letter; a brief introduction and conclusion of God’s divine work for you Gentiles, through this “mystery of Christ.”
C. Whereof I was made a minister. He now states the purpose of his ministry: “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given to me by the effective working of his power,” Ephesians 3:7. Notice:
1. It was necessary first, that I be made a minister to make known this mystery; God's gracious purpose to the Gentiles. He writes elsewhere to Timothy:
a. Ordained a preacher: “Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity,” 1 Timothy 2:7.
b. Appointed a preacher: “Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles,” 2 Timothy 1:11.
c. This office and appointment was given to him “through the grace of God,” Illustrate: Paul’s Call by the Grace of Christ Jesus, 1 Timothy 1:12-15.
2. According to the gift of the grace of God, has this apostolic office with all the accompanying signs and wonders that has been granted unto me; yet, I consider myself the servant God, and the prisoner of Jesus Christ. I am what I am:
a. Least of all the apostles: “For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.”
b. But by grace: “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me,” 1 Corinthians 15:9-10.
c. I consider myself least than all the apostles and all the saints. I am unworthy to even be called an apostle, granted custody of “the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust,” 1 Timothy 1:11.
D. Least than all the saints. He writes: “To me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world has been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ,” Ephesians 3:8-9. We’ll speak to this later.
E. The purpose of this time. The purpose of the “fullness of time” and the “dispensation of grace” is now presented. Notice:
1. First, “To the intent that now to the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” It is now, that God has given the revelation and the responsibility unto me and unto the church; that together we might make know unto the world, all principalities and powers everywhere even in heaven the “manifold wisdom of God.”
2. Further: “According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” It is now we have “discovered” God’s eternal purpose which he hid in Christ Jesus our Lord; to make possible our understanding of the revelation “of the mystery of Christ” for the benefit and blessing for you Gentiles.
3. Finally, “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Therefore I desire that you faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory,” Ephesians 3:10-13. You can be confident that this “faith” which you have heard, believed and obeyed; has granted you access unto God, and the sure blessing he has promised to our father Abraham – that you NOW enjoy in Christ. What then is this blessing? Let’s consider our last point: “The mystery read for realization (understanding).”
III THE MYSTERY READ FOR REALIZATION (UNDERSTANDING)
A. Whereby, when ye read. We now begin our discussion of “when ye read ye shall understand my knowledge of the mystery.” This Epistle would have been read in a public setting. The word “read” is Gr: anaginosko, an-ag-in-oce-ko; meaning to know again, i.e., (by extension) to read: - read. This word includes:
1. To distinguish between; to recognize, to know accurately, to acknowledge.
2. To read publicly, to acquire an understanding.
3. The apostle had previously told them, now they can read it for themselves, to further their understanding in the knowledge of the “mystery of Christ.” Notice:
a. To the Colossian church: “And when this epistle is read among ye, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodicea’s; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea,” Colossians 4:16.
b. To the Thessalonians: “I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren,” 1 Thessalonians 5:27.
c. We are charged individually, to “Seek ye out of the book of the Law of God and read, for none of these things shall fail,” Isaiah 34:16.
d. Nehemiah: “So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading,” Nehemiah 8:8. Illustrate: The Ethiopian on the road to Gaza, Acts 8:35. Understand what thou readest?
B. Ye may understand. It is important that the church understand the “mystery of Christ.” It is important that the man of God; who preacheth Christ, know himself the wisdom of God, which is revealed through this “mystery.” Notice:
1. First, the wise man wrote: “Wisdom is the principle thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding,” Proverbs 4:7.
2. Further, the apostle Paul writes: “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is,” Ephesians 5:17.
3. Finally, David: “Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way,” Psalms 119:104. Also, “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple,” Psalms 119:130; Psalms 19:7.
C. My knowledge. That you (saints) may know; or "comprehend" my knowledge in the “mystery of Christ.” It is necessary if we preach Christ and this mystery – that we understand it ourselves, that we might communication it accurately unto others. Recall, the word “mystery” means something hid; until it is time to be reveal. It was in times past, hidden from angels; the prophets of old and the patriarchs. But it is now:
1. Revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets, Ephesians 3:5.
2. Revealed by the Spirit. Paul is not mentioning the Old Testament prophets; but, the prophets given to the New Testament church. This was not made known unto the “sons of men (of old), as it is has now been revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.” These are holy men of God in the New Testament.
3. Some of the Hebrew prophets might have had a glimpse into the Gentiles’ salvation; but, they did not understand how God would bring it all about. It was hid from them; just like many today, as it is now hidden. And I ask why?
4. Illustrate: I Don’t See It Like That! Why, “you ain’t been reading.”
D. The mystery of Christ. What is this mystery? Church this is where our lesson begins to disclose this mystery. Paul states: “Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit,” Ephesians 3:5. Notice:
1. The patriarchs were part of it; but they did not understand it.
2. The prophet wrote about it; but they did not understand it.
3. The priest read it; but they did not understand it.
4. The angels look into it; but they did not understand it.
5. The saints must read it; that they might understand it. The beloved apostle Paul; here begins to unfold the “mystery of Christ” unto the Ephesians and us.
E. The promise of Christ. This “mystery of Christ” involved the promise that God made unto Abraham and his seed – Christ. Hear Paul: “That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel,” Ephesians 3:6. We will now address the inclusion of the Gentiles into the fellowship, the body and the promises of Christ by the gospel. This is “that” which makes up the entire “mystery of Christ.” Notice:
1. First, “that the Gentiles” should be:
a. Fellow-heirs, Gr: sygkleronomos, soong-klay-ron-om-os; which means a co-heir, i.e., participants in common: -fellow (joint) –heir; heir together, heir with – Christ, and children of the “faithful Abraham.”
b. And of the same body. They were to be granted full access into the “body of Christ”; and members of the “household of God,” Ephesians 2:19-22. Hear Paul: “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God ... In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit,” Ephesians 2:19-22.
c. Illustrate: One Body, One Spirit and One Hope of our Calling, Ephesians 4:1-6; Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 2:13-23.
d. Partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel. The word partakers, Gr: symmetochos, süm-me'-to-khos; which means, a co-participant:—partaker. Recall now, that this was the eternal purpose of God; ordained before the foundation of the world; only manifested in due time unto us; by the “gospel of Christ.”
e. To be preached “first unto the Jews, and then unto the Gentiles,” Romans 1:16.
2. Further, the promise. How did God pull all this off? He did it through Christ. The word promise, Gr: epangelia, ep-ang-el-ee-ah; which means, an announcement (for information assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good): -message, promise. Notice Paul's analogy:
a. Abram's seed. Beloved church, this entire mystery began its fulfillment; though God’s promise to Abram:
1) During Isaac's offering: “That, in his seed shall all the nations of the earth would be blessed,” Genesis 22:18.
2) Before the covenant: “And he brought him (Abram) forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, so shall thy seed be,” Genesis 15:5. This was God’s promise to Abram before entering into a “covenant” relationship with him, which was intended to ratify this promise.Let’s notice Jehovah’s pledge unto Abram.
b. The covenant with Abram. Let’s review the setup and the execution of this covenant agreement between God and Abram. Notice:
1) The promise gave, Genesis 15:5-8.
2) The preparations arrayed, Genesis 15:9-12.
3) The participants named, Genesis 15:17a.
4) The passing through made, Genesis 15:17b.
a) The smoking furnace (God).
b) The burning lamp (the promised seed, Christ).
c. The covenant, Paul writes; “That was confirmed before of God in Christ,” Galatians 3:17. Another translation renders it the: “Promise made by God to Christ.” God made this promise to Christ, as both: “passed through the pieces.”
1) Christ took the place of Abram; and “pass through the pieces with Jehovah.” Moses wrote: “And when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and, lo, a horror of great darkness fell upon him,” Genesis 15:12.
2) Thus, the covenant between them (God and Abram) was confirmed. One might ask “why wasn’t Abram a part of this covenant agreement in person?” May I suggest unto you this explanation? This was a covenant that merited the “highest of character of both parties” in this pledge. God is making an “agreement with God” and Christ stood in for Abram to ensure that no “weakness of the flesh” could break this covenant – as it was in the Old Testament. Notice:
d. Christ the second party. It was necessary that this covenant be made void of any weakness of the other party (Abram), due to the weakness of his flesh. The first covenant between (Moses and Israel) was found WITH FAULT; due to the weakness of the children of Israel. Notice the apostle’s discussion of the first covenant:
1) First covenant: “FOR IF the first covenant had been faultless, then shall no place been sought for the second. For finding fault in them, He saith, behold the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a NEW COVENANT with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel ...For I will be merciful to the unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. ...In that He saith, A NEW COVENANT, he hath made the first old. For (now) that which decayeth and waxeth old, is ready to vanish away,” Hebrews 8:7-13. I will make a new covenant; the old decayeth and vanishing away. Where was the fault in this covenant?
2) Law weak through the flesh: “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:3-4; Galatians 4:4-5. Consider also:
a) First, “For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which, we draw night unto God,” Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 10:22.
b) Further, “Is the law against the promise of God? God forbid: For if there had been a law given (unto us) which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been (or come) by the law,” Galatians 3:21. The law could justify only if it was kept perfectly and without offence, James 2:10; Galatians 3:11-12.
c) Next, “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record ...For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth,” Romans 10:1-4.
d) Finally, “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: ...For He (God) hath made Him (Christ) to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be the righteousness of God in Him,” 2 Corinthians 5:17-21.
e. Covenant with Abraham. In this covenant agreement it was Christ; that is Abraham’s SEED, thus, eliminating the possibilities that this covenant would ever be broken due to the weakness of the flesh. God made a covenant with God! We have discussed the “participants” in the covenant agreement earlier, however, it bear further explanation to understand the certainty of the promise of God made to Abraham and to his Seed – which is Christ. Let me speak further regarding the parties that “passed through the pieces.” Is that alright?
3. Passing through the pieces. Let’s investigate this covenant agreement further. Who were the persons represented in these two objects; that passed through the pieces? May I suggest for your consideration this explanation? Bear with me here on this, if you please? Let’s note:
a. Picture of the objects (a smoking furnace and a burning lamp). Let us keep before us that these two objects are representing two parties (participants), making a covenant agreement “Jehovah and Abraham.” Abraham, though present, was in a deep sleep; and did not personally, “pass through the pieces.” Someone else took his place in this covenant agreement. The two objects making this procession included two parties. Whose identity, shall now be discovered!
1) A smoking furnace. This was clearly, a figure of Jehovah: “And Mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly,” Exodus 19:18; Genesis 19:28. Jehovah is depicted in the object as a “smoking furnace.” The smoke reveals here; the “glory of God,” Psalms 144:5; Revelations 15:8. But, who was the other party that represented Abraham?
2) A burning lamp. This was without a doubt, Christ – the promised seed of Abraham. Notice with me these scriptures, referencing a “burning lamp.” Now, stay with me, church! This is going to get good.
a) David's Song, he declared: “For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness,” 2 Samuel 22:29; Psalms 27:1. The Lord is my lamp!
b) David wrote: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” Psalms 119:105. Christ is the “Word” and thus the lamp, John 1:1-3; John 1:14.
c) John wrote: “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life,” John 8:12; John 12:46. Jesus was that “burning lamp”; and He is that light that giveth life unto the world, Psalms 18:28; Psalms 119:130.
4. Prophecy of the lamp. Notice:
a. Prophet Isaiah: “For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name,” Isaiah 62:1-2; Isaiah 49:6; Acts 11:26.
b. Simeon in the temple: “For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel,” Luke 2:30-32; Luke 3:6.
c. Purpose of the lamp. Notice:
1) Light unto the Gentiles: “But the Lord said unto him (Paul), Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake,” Acts 9:15-16. Also: “And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles,” Acts 22:21; Acts 26:15-18.
2) Paul’s preaching to the Gentiles: “For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the (the entire) region,” Acts 13:47-49.
3) Paul’s preaching to the king: “Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles,” Acts 26:22-23.
4) Conclusion: Christ was the person who passed through the pieces as a “lamp” and for the confirmation of the covenant made between Jehovah and Abraham. This covenant would include both Jew and Gentiles as recipients of “the promise of Christ through the gospel.” God made a covenant to Himself in the person of Christ; which assured it would never be broke as a result of the “weakness of the flesh” as was the case with the “old covenant.” Jehovah to assure Abraham that His promise was sure – ratified this covenant with a “promise and an oath.”
5. Finally, the oath to Abraham. Notice: “And (The Lord) said, by myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: ... And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice,” Genesis 22:16-18. The oath came as a result of Abraham’s obedience to God in the offering up Isaac as a sacrifice unto Him. Illustrate: Christ’s sacrifice unto God, John 3:16; Romans 5:8.
a. Christ is the “faith” which was promised. Paul wrote: “Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen (Gentiles) through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, in thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham,” Galatians 3:7-9.
b. Promised seed – Christ: “Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, and to seeds, as of many; but as of one, and to thy seed, which is Christ,” Galatians 3:16.
c. The Gentiles also are the children of Abraham. Notice Paul’s conclusion:
1) First, “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
2) Further, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
3) Finally, “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise,” Galatians 3:26-29.
6. Conclusion: “So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham,” Galatians 3:9. The Gentiles also are the children of promise. They are heir according to the promise. Notice: “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ,” Romans 8:17. Consider Paul’s chain of arguments:
a. We are the sons of God; children of Abraham.
b. We have received the Spirit of adoption.
c. The Spirit of Christ and our spirit witness that we are children of God.
d. We are children of God; hence, "heirs of God; and joint heirs with Christ."
e. Under the Jewish law the older brother had a double portion, but Christ admits all to a joint share of this great inheritance. The Gentiles are fellow-heirs according to the promise. The Jew and Gentiles are equal in promise and position in Christ!
7. Two immutable things. Hear Paul:
a. First, “For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he swears by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise,” Hebrews 6:13-15.
b. Further, “For men verily swear by the greater; and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife,” Hebrews 6:16.
c. Next, “Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath:”
d. Finally, “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us,” Hebrews 6:17-18; Genesis 22:15-18. Illustrate: Things too Impossible for God; “To lie, and to fail!”
e. Here then are the two immutable things:
1) The counsel of God on behalf of the promise.
2) The oath of God to fulfill the promise.
3) These two immutable things, made the promises of God sure and steadfast. I might add, neither of these were required; because, “it was impossible for God to lie.” We like Abraham can be certain regarding any of His promises unto us.
4) Conclusion: However, in order that Jehovah could give assurance to Abraham; He confirmed the promise of His counsel with, “an oath.” As God has made such promises unto Abraham; and gave His assurance, we can be certain that He, will deal faithfully also with us.
5) Paul reminds the Hebrews saints and us: “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised),” Hebrews 10:23.
6) Illustrate: Cast not away then, your confidence in Him, Hebrews 10:35-39.
I thank God for Paul’s revelation regarding the “mystery of Christ.” I am also grateful for his Letter to the Ephesians, that we might also “read and understand this mystery.” In our next lesson, we will discuss the New Covenant – that resulted in these great blessings. I thank you for your patience in this lesson. Now before I conclude; let me review briefly, what we have discussed.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. The Mystery Received by Revelation (Uncovering)
2. The Mystery Recorded by Recollection (Inspiration)
3. The Mystery Read for Realization (Understanding)
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered how the mystery was uncovered to the world. Paul wrote: “How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery.” He affirms that God made known unto him “the mystery of Christ” through direct revelation. God uncovered the mystery unto the Apostles and Prophets by the Spirit. This mystery was kept hid “from the foundation of the world; but, was manifested in due times by the Spirit.”
2. Second, we discussed how this “mystery was recorded by recollection (inspiration).” The apostle writes: “As I wrote afore in few words.” He instructed the Ephesians that the mystery as it was uncovered to him by revelation; he wrote it down in just a few words. These words were written by inspiration or by the direction and guidance of God. It must be therefore understood, that these words from God: “Were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope,” Romans 15:4.
3. Lastly, we investigated how the mystery when read resulted in realization (understanding). Paul continued in the text to write: “Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ.” Paul lets the Ephesians know that through their reading of the mystery as he wrote it, they too shall have the same understanding of the “mystery of Christ.” I should stress that they would not have their own or another “understanding”; but, the same “understanding” that the apostle was granted through the “revelation of God.”
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation. H, B, R, C, B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
