Colossians is a message delivered to all of the saints: the elder and the novice, men and women, bond and free, young and old. No segment or individual member of the body of Christ is excluded. Further, the focus is singular.

JESUS CHRIST

          From the standpoint of a person, that focus is Jesus Christ. Thus far in this Epistle, this has been powerfully stated.

✙    We have been “translated” by God the Father into Christ’s kingdom (1:13).

✙    We have “redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins” (1:14).

✙    He is the “Image of the invisible God” (1:15a).

✙    Jesus is “the Firstborn of every creature” – the Federal Head over everything that was created (1:15b).

✙    Everything was created by Him and for Him (1:16).

✙    He is before all things, both by existence and by authority (1:17a).

✙    In Him all things “consist,” or are held together (1:17b).

✙    He is “the Head of the body, the church,” and the one from whom all spiritual nourishment and direction are received (1:18a).

✙    He is “the Beginning, the Firstborn from the dead, that in all things He might have the preeminence” (1:18b).

✙    It has pleased the Father that “all fulness” dwell in Him (1:19).

✙    Jesus made peace through “the blood of His cross” (1:20a).

✙    Gold reconciled “all things unto Himself” through Jesus Christ (1:20b).

✙    We who were “alienated” in our “mind by wicked works,” have now been reconciled to God through Christ (1:21).

✙    Our reconciliation was accomplished in the body of Christ’s flesh, and through His death (1:22).

THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST

          From the standpoint of a message, word, or declaration, the Gospel of Christ is the focus.

✙    The “hope” from which faith in Christ and love for all saints sprang, was declared in “the truth of the Gospel” (1:5).

✙    The “Gospel” was brought to the Colossians, as it was “in all the world” (1:6a).

✙    The “grace of God in truth” was communicated through the Gospel (1:6b).

✙    Our presentation in God’s sight as “holy and unblameable and unreproveable” is contingent upon not being moved away from “the hope of the Gospel” (1:23a).

✙    In accord with the purpose of God, and through His power and wisdom, it was the Gospel that “was preached to every creature under heaven” (1:23b).

✙    Paul was primarily “made a minister” of the Gospel (1:23c).

PERCEPTION REQUIRED

          It is imperative that believers perceive the intent of Christ’s words to the churches, and what the Spirit is saying to them. The thrust of the heavenly message does not concern the church itself or what it is to be doing. The message is, in a sense, separate from the church itself. Every word revolves around the Person of Christ as declared in the word of the Gospel.

          The truth of the matter is this: there is no valid ministry that does not have Christ’s person at its center, and the message of the Gospel as its primary word. Whatever makes Jesus appear secondary is in no way related to the truth of God. A message that does not have the Gospel of Christ at its center point, has no power unto salvation. In fact, such a message becomes an obstacle to the salvation of men, for the power of God is not in it.

          For some, this is too difficult to receive. They had rather have a core message of family values, organizational success, political independence, or problem resolution. A word of promised heath and wealth is more acceptable to some, and thus they even dare to call such a word “Gospel” – but it is not. The Gospel has to do with Christ’s Person and work, not man’s temporal betterment.

THE COLOSSIAN DILEMMA

          The brethren at Colossae were being subjected to “another gospel” – similar to the experience of “the churches of Galatia” (Gal 1:2). The spotlight was being turned away from Christ – the One whom God has exalted above all – to meats, drinks, holy days, new moons, and sabbaths (2:16-17). Instead of pursuing the knowledge of Christ, they were being called to consider “voluntary humility, and the worshiping of angels.” Teachers to whom they were being subjected were actually intruding into things they had not seen, and were “vainly puffed up” by their “fleshly mind” (2:18). However, these pretentious teachers were “not holding the Head,” Jesus Christ, from whom all valid edification and strengthening proceed (2:19).

          These teachers were no doubt scholars, and would readily be accepted in the religious schools of our country. But God had no use for them, and thus denounces them through the Apostle whom He had made a valid minister.

          I do not believe the average American church has a satisfactory grasp of either the indispensability of Jesus, or the essentiality of the Gospel. There are too many religious specialists lacking acquaintance with Christ and the Gospel. There are too many purported “ministries” that do not rely upon Christ and the Gospel. We have, in fact, precisely the same condition in our day that the brethren of Colossae were facing. The Lord Jesus is being upstaged, and the Gospel is exchanged for powerless words.

          To those caught in the wake of this tidal wave of religious nonsense, the words that follow will have no importance. Those who have been deluded by the variant messages of this day will write this text off as too deep, or intended only for more astute Biblical scholars. It just does not fit in with what they are accustomed to hearing.

          However, this message is not addressed to the scholars, or the leaders, or some other religious professionals. It is delivered to “the saints and faithful brethren” (1:2), to those who have “faith in Christ Jesus,” and love “for all the saints” (1:4). This is a word to those who have received “the hope of the Gospel,” and “know the grace of God in truth” (1:5-6). It is for those who have “love in the Spirit” (1:7). It is for those who have been “delivered,” “translated,” “have redemption” and “forgiveness,” and have been “reconciled” to God (1:13-21).

          It is not possible for a word to be more relevant, more central, more applicable to all who are in Christ Jesus! This word must not be brushed aside, or treated as though it was in any sense of secondary importance. This is a word that has to do with being prepared to stand before the Lord Himself!

   THE HIDDEN MYSTERY

          “ ^1:26a Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations . . . ”

          This is a continuation of a lengthy and involved thought beginning in verse twenty-one. The KJV presents a single sentence that includes verses twenty-one through twenty-nine. The NASB and NIV represents verse twenty-four as a single sentence.

          With a broad stroke, the Spirit tells us of our past, our present, and the future God has determined in Christ Jesus.

          Our past was sordid, and thrust us into a hopeless and helpless situation. There was nothing we could do about it.

          In Christ Jesus, our present condition is wholly owing to the work of the Lord. He has delivered us from the power of darkness, and placed us in the kingdom of His Son, giving us every required advantage and resource. It is He who has reconciled us to Himself through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, thereby making us suitable to receive His inheritance.

          The message of all of this comes to us through the Gospel – a word that will be relevant and essential to us in every phase of spiritual life. The Gospel is to spiritual life what blood is to the body. It is the sole means described as “the power of God unto salvation” (Rom 1:16).

EVEN

            “Even . . . ” Other versions read, “that is,” ^NASB “which is,” ^GENEVA and “the message which was a mystery,” ^NJB, and “the message was kept secret.” ^NLT

           Paul now elaborates on the Gospel itself, of which he has been “made a minister.” The word “even” refers to the Gospel, of which Paul has been “made a minister.” Moved along by the Spirit of God, the Apostle will now refer to the Gospel in a different manner, confirming its centrality in God’s “great salvation.”

          His words will reveal something of the majesty of the Gospel, as well as its universality and goodness. This is a message conceived and delivered by God Himself. It is “the record God has given of His Son” (1 John 5:10-11). The words that follow should assist to deliver us from juvenile views of the Gospel – something that has long plagued the American church.

THE MYSTERY

          “ . . . the mystery . . . ” This is the first time Paul uses the word “mystery” in this letter. He will use it three more times (1:27; 2:2; 4:3).

          Coming from the Greek word musth,rion (mus-ta-ri-on), the word “mystery” means “a hidden thing, secret, not obvious to the understanding, a hidden purpose or counsel.” It refers to a message “that is confided only to the initiated.” ^STRONG’S A Scriptural “mystery” is “what can be known only through revelation mediated by God.” ^THAYER

          What Gods calls a “mystery” cannot be discovered by any form of human wisdom or religious discipline. It is hidden within the framework of Divine counsel, and can only be known if God reveals it. The fact that it is a “mystery” puts the matter beyond every form of human wisdom.

          This word is used twenty-seven times in the New Covenant Scriptures. In the KJV and NKJV versions of Scripture, the English words “mystery” and “mysteries” are not used in Genesis through Malachi.

          The NASB, NIV, and NRSV versions do employ these words. These versions use “mystery” six times in the book of Daniel (Dan 2:18,19,27,30,47; 4:9). The KJV uses the word “secret” in these passages. The NASB uses “mysteries” once in Job (Job 12:22), and three times in Daniel (Dan 2:28,29,47). The KJV uses “deep things” in the Job text, and “secrets” in the others. The NIV employs “mysteries” in Job 11:7, and Daniel 2:28,29,47). The NIV translates the Job text “Can you fathom the mysteries of God,” while the KJV reads, “Canst thou by searching find out God.”

The Use of the Word

          The various uses of this word will confirm both the nature and necessity of revelation.

✙    Jesus spoke of the “mysteries of the kingdom,” declaring only certain people were “given” to know them (Matt 13:11; Mk 4:11; Lk 8:10). This was His response to His disciples when they asked Him to explain why He spoke in parables to the multitudes. Contrary to the idea that parables simplified the truth, making it understandable, Jesus said they concealed the truth to those who were not granted the privilege of knowing the mysteries.

✙    Through Paul, the Spirit spoke of the present condition of Israel, together with its future, as a “mystery” that was beyond human understanding (Rom 11:25).

✙    The “mystery, which was kept secret since the world began” is now made known through the preaching of the Gospel (Rom 16:25).

✙    Now, the “wisdom of God” is spoken “in a mystery” – that is, in a manner that cannot be discerned by those who are limited to the wisdom of this world (1 Cor 2:7).

✙    There are appointed servants who have been made “stewards of the mysteries of God” – not to conceal them, but to declare them (1 Cor 4:1).

✙    The Gospel is a revelation of “the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure, which He has purposed in Himself” (Eph 1:9).

✙    Paul affirmed God had, by revelation, made known to him “the mystery” (Eph 3:3).

✙    This “mystery” is an exposition of the Lord Jesus Christ, and is therefore called “the mystery of Christ.” Paul said he had knowledge in this “mystery” (Eph 3:4).

✙    Now that God has unfolded this “mystery,” He desires that His people have a working acquaintance with it, and participation in it. This is referred to as “the fellowship of the mystery” (Eph 3:9).

✙    Pointedly, Paul refers to “the mystery of the Gospel” (Eph 6:19).

✙    There is such a thing as “the mystery of the faith” that can be contained “in a pure conscience” (1 Tim 3:9). That is, there are unknowable things that can be known and appreciated by those with pure hearts.

✙    The Spirit refers to various facets of the Lord Jesus’ person and accomplishments as “the mystery of godliness” (1 Tim 3:16).

          Ever keep before you that Paul is now referring to the Gospel, of which he has been made a minister, as “the mystery.” It is not, then a simplistic message that is easily discerned. This very Gospel, so precious to those who believe, is “a stumblingblock” to the Jews, and “foolishness” to the Greeks (1 Cor 1:23). The “cross,” through which we have been reconciled to God (Col 1:20), is immeasurably precious to those who are being saved. However, to those who are perishing, it is utter foolishness. As it is written, “For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” ^NASB (1 Cor 1:18).

          Those who have a disinterest in the Gospel are, in fact, “perishing.” Whatever they may boast about their identity with God is only a lie, and is not the truth. There is no such thing as a person who is “being saved” that has no interest in the Gospel of Christ. The fact that men do not want the Gospel is an acknowledgment that it is hidden to them. That condition betrays that they are actually “perishing,” and are in a state of alienation from God.

HID FROM AGES AND GENERATIONS

          “ . . . which hath been hid from ages and from generations . . . ” Other versions read, “hidden from past ages and generations,” ^NASB “hidden throughout the ages and generations,” ^RSV “kept from all times and generations,” ^BBE “hid since the world began, and from all ages,” ^GENEVA and “kept secret for centuries and generations past.” ^NLT

Hid

          Although this Gospel involved an intelligent purpose, intelligent creatures could not discern it – it was “hid” from them. It was hidden by Divine intent. God did not intend for it to be known, and therefore neither man nor angel was privy to it.

          Something that is hidden is concealed – placed where it cannot be found, regardless how ardent the search for it may be. There are three classes of personalities from whom this Gospel was hidden.

✙    THE PRINCES OF THIS WORLD. When making known this marvelous Gospel, the Spirit draws our attention to the “princes of this world,” and their total ignorance of it. “Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Cor 2:6-8).

✙    THE HOLY PROPHETS. God made known certain aspects of this Gospel to the holy prophets. However, it was not enough for them to draw any satisfactory conclusions. It is written, “Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow” (1 Pet 1:11).

✙    THE HOLY ANGELS. It is also written that holy angels desire to know something of this Gospel AFTER it has been revealed to men. It is written, “Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you . . . unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into” (1 Pet 1:12).

Observation

          The world’s most astute wise men did not see the truth of the Gospel, and therefore “crucified the Lord of glory.” The most learned of a race cultured by Divine tutelage, including the Scribes, Pharisees, Lawyers, Sadducees, and the High Priest, could not see the wisdom of God. It was hidden to them. The most expert of the political realm, Pilate and Herod, themselves with some expertise on Jewish affairs, could not decipher this wisdom, and therefore consented to the death of Jesus Christ.

          If one desires to consider Satanic powers among “the princes of this world,” they too failed to see the purpose of God, and thus moved men to crucify the Lord of glory.

          At every level, therefore, the mystery of the Gospel was hidden: hidden to men, hidden to holy angels, and hidden to inimical principalities and powers.

Ages

          “Ages” have to do with periods of time. These are epochs during which the revelation of God was held at a rudimentary level – long periods of time that were not marked by a significant increase in revelation.

Patriarchal Age

          Prior to Christ, there was an “age” during which little revelation was received from God – and when it was, it was on a personal, not collective, level. Some have called this the “patriarchal age.” It was a period in which individuals were most prominent: i.e., Enoch, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. What is now revealed through the Gospel was hidden during this period. Although there were allusions to the coming Gospel, and some introductions to certain aspects of it, it remained hidden in its fulness. Those patriarchs never did see what those in Christ Jesus now see.

The Age of Law

          There was also the “age,” or period during which a people became most prominent. The people was Israel, and the means through which they gained their prominence was the Law, or First Covenant. During this time, there were prominent individuals within this prominent nation: i.e., Moses, Aaron, David, and the holy prophets. Although this age was filled with types and shadows of the coming redemption, yet what is now perceived by the saints was hidden to those living under the Law.

Generations

          Generations views the past from the standpoint of persons, or people, rather than time. The descendants of Noah – Ham, Shem, Japheth – were “generations” through whom the world was populated (Gen 10:1-5). Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were “generations” through whom the Messiah came. There were also other generations of Abraham through Keturah. “And she bare him Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah (sons of Abraham, Gen 25:2), and Ishmael, and Esau, through whom many other Gentile nations sprang (Gen 25:13-15; 36:5-43).

          The things now revealed through the Gospel of Christ were hidden to all of those generations. No wise man among the Jews or Gentiles was able to decipher the grand purpose of God. In fact, only those to whom God had particularly revealed Himself even knew there was such a thing as Divine purpose or intent. It could not be seen in nature or in Law. Generations of kings could not see it. Generations of teachers and wise men could not see it. Even generations of prophets were unable to perceive it. High priests could not comprehend it. It was “hidden” from them all – all ages and all generations.

          Prior to this day of salvation, God did not reveal His purpose as it has now been revealed in the Gospel. Thus, it could not be known. No natural ability could uncover it. No human discipline, however astute, could discover it.

          As long as it was unrevealed, it remained locked in the unknown. Men were utterly helpless to open it, or even to know it existed. Four thousand years of accumulated wisdom could not discover this mystery.

   NOW MADE MANIFEST

          “ ^26b . . . but now is made manifest . . . ”

NOW

          “ . . . but now is. . . ” Other versions read, “but now has been,” ^NKJV “But is now,” ^NIV and “but now.” ^NRSV

          The Spirit now moves Paul to declare the advantage of this present age – the “day of salvation” and “the accepted time” (2 Cor 6:2). What is taking place “now” is not merely something that has been appointed – although this is an appointed time. Rather, what is now made known is one of the results of Christ’s declared accomplishments. What is “now” done is based upon the “redemption” wrought by Christ (1:14). It is founded upon the peace that He made “through the blood of His cross” (1:20), and the reconciliation of those who were formerly alienated from God, and enemies in their minds through wicked works (1:20-21).

          If these things had not been accomplished, no more could be known of God’s purpose now than was known in past ages and generations.

          The truth of the matter is that an understanding of the Gospel could not be given to men until sin had been removed, and men could be justly delivered from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom of His Son. Where sin is not forgiven, and men are not reconciled unto God, the truth of the Gospel cannot be seen. However, these things have “now” been accomplished because of Christ Jesus, and thus God is “now” making known this glorious Gospel.

MANIFEST

          “ . . . made manifest . . . ” Other versions read, “revealed,” ^NKJV “manifested,” ^NASB “disclosed,” ^NIV and “made clear.” ^BBE

          The word “manifest” means to make known what was formerly hidden or unknown. It means to make the matter understandable, discernible, and perceptible. What could not previously be known can now be comprehended.

          The “truth of the Gospel” must not be approached as though it was unknowable. This can be done in at least two ways.

          First, by approaching the Gospel in an overly simplistic manner, as though it was appropriate to have a childish understanding of it. The admonition of First Corinthians 14:20 is never more appropriate than in the matter of understanding the Gospel: “in understanding be men.” Surface views of the Gospel bring blessing to no one, for there is more to the Gospel than meets the eye. Men ought to reason that things “made manifest” by God Almighty cannot be basically simplistic.

          Second, the depth of the Gospel can so stagger the human spirit that it is actually neglected – placed to the side as though it is beyond our reach. This view can be driven by the misconception that only more disciplined thinkers can really understand the Gospel. However, this is not a proper view of something that has been “manifested” by the God of heaven.

          There is a certain class of people to whom this mystery is being manifested. Their distinction, however, is not found in the flesh. Worldly achievements and natural aptitude are not the requirements for having this mystery revealed. The Spirit is very specific concerning those who are graciously granted insight into this otherwise hidden “mystery.”

          The truth of the matter is that this understanding is clearly within the reach of everyone who has taken advantage of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus! This is done through faith.

   TO HIS SAINTS

          “ ^26b . . . to His saints.”

          The manifestation of the Gospel had not been to mankind in general. Our text does not mean that the Gospel had been simply written down, and can therefore be deciphered by the human intellect. If this was the case, the holy angels could surely understand the Gospel of Christ. Yet, we are categorically told that they continue to “desire” to “look into” this Gospel (1 Pet 1:12).

          Certain professed believers have taken the position that “we have the Bible and a brain,” and that is sufficient to gain an understanding of the Gospel of Christ. This is a very foolish view. It is not only contradictory of Scripture, but is also confirmed to be untrue by the ignorance of the Gospel that prevails among those holding to this view. The Word of God is clear on this point, and there is no justifiable reason for remaining in such ignorance.

          This revelation of “the mystery of the Gospel” (Eph 6:19) is confined to “His saints.” Only they are “given” to know these things.

          The word “His” refers to God Himself. He is the One who “delivered” us from the power of darkness. He is the One who “translated” us into the kingdom of His dear Son. He is the One who “made peace” through the blood of Christ’s cross. He is the One who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus.

          “His saints” are the people God has delivered from the power of darkness and translated into His Son’s kingdom. They are the ones who have been reconciled to Him, and are at peace with Him. “His saints” are not an institutional identity. Rather, this is a term that applies to all who are in Christ Jesus, and are appropriately described by what has been declared of such people.

          The word “saints” means “holy ones,” or sacred and dedicated ones. These are people who belong to God by personal choice and commitment, as well as by redemption and reconciliation. They are people whom the Father Himself has “qualified . . . to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light” ^NIV (1:12). They are “holy” by virtue of being “washed” from their sins (Rev 1:5). They are also “holy” because they are living by faith (Gal 3:11), living in the Spirit (Gal 5:25), and walking in the light (1 John 1:7).

          Unholy people cannot comprehend the Gospel, for God will not make it known to them. The Lord will not unveil the glory and effectiveness of the Gospel to those who have not experienced deliverance from the power of darkness, or fellowship with His Son.

HIS SAINTS

          Those to whom this “mystery” is being revealed are not merely people who live separated lives from the world. They live “unto God” (Gal 2:19) because they have been “joined to the Lord” (1 Cor 6:17), and have been made a “peculiar people” – that is they are peculiarly the Lord’s, belonging exclusively to Him. The Lord has purified His people for Himself. As it is written, “Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Tit 2:14).

Saints Are Related to GodIn Christ, we are made “alive unto God” (Rom 6:11), are being brought “to God” (1 Pet 3:18), and are intended to “bring forth fruit unto God” (Rom 7:4). Collectively, the saints are “the church of God” (1 Cor 1:2), “the house of God” (1 Tim 3:15), “the temple of God” (1 Cor 3:16), and “the children of God” (Rom 8:21).

Saints Are Partakers

          Those in Christ are not “saints” by name only, or by institutional identity. They have been made “partakers of Christ” (Heb 3:14), “partakers of the Divine nature,” and “partakers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel” (Eph 3:6). They have partaken, or participated in, the “heavenly calling” (Heb 3:1), and have been “made partakers of the Holy Spirit” (Heb 6:4).

WHY SAY THESE THINGS?

          Why is it necessary to say such things? Is not the text very apparent? What was once a mystery is now being made known “unto the saints.” However, there remains among professed believers the notion that the Gospel is understood academically, and by the employment of natural aptitude. Those embracing this view, whether unwittingly or deliberately, have removed God from the immediate picture. To them, the manifestation is historical, not contemporary. It has been embalmed, so to speak, in print, and is thus available to all men. All they need is a good mind and, perhaps, a few study helps. They will be able to figure out the mystery – at least that is what some are inclined to think.

          The condition of the American church should confirm to our hearts that something more than mere human discipline and effort is required to decipher the “mystery of the Gospel.” Let it be clear, I am not speaking of being able to rehearse the essential elements of the Gospel – the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (1 Cor 15:1-3). It is what was accomplished through these realities, together with their implications, that is the subject of the manifestation of reference.

          These things will only be effectively made known to those who are in right relation with God through the Lord Jesus Christ – “His saints.” Only those who have separated from the condemned order and are pressing toward the mark will be shown the mystery – “His saints.” Only those who are holy, do not quench the Spirit, and are walking by faith will receive this blessing – “His saints.” To everyone else, the message of the Gospel remains a “mystery.”

          This is confirmed in the lack of relevance that non-saints see in the Gospel of Christ. This is pointedly declared in the Apostles’ doctrine. There is no valid reason for any professing believer to remain in ignorance of it. “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (2 Cor 4:3-4).

          Admittedly, this has some alarming implications. Yet, it is the truth, and is worthy of our hearty embrace. Let every person take heed to these words.

   GOD DESIRES TO MAKE IT KNOWN

          “ ^27a To whom God would make known . . . ”

          If there is a single mortal on the face of the earth who does not comprehend “with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Eph 3:18-19), it is NOT because there is any reluctance on God’s part to make these things known.

TO WHOM

          “To whom God . . . ” This refers to “His saints” – the holy ones. The eyes of the Lord are upon these people, and His ear is open to their cry. As it is written, “The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry” (Psa 34:15). Peter also affirmed, “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers” (1 Pet 3:12).

          With holy intent, the “eye of the Lord is upon them that fear Him” (Psa 34:15). He “upholdeth the righteous” (Psa 37:17), sustains them, and “shall never suffer the righteous to be moved” (Psa 55:22). Those who “are upright in their way” are described as “His delight” (Prov 11:20). How marvelously the Lord has revealed His attitude toward those who have availed themselves of His goodness and “plenteous redemption” (Psa 130:7).

WOULD MAKE KNOWN

          “ . . . would make known . . . ” Other versions read, “willed to make known,” ^NKJV “has chosen to make known,” ^NIV “pleased to make known,” ^ASV “was pleased to give knowledge,” ^BBE and “God’s purpose to reveal.” ^NJB

          What is set before us is not a Divine reaction, but a deliberate purpose. This is something that God has determined, and there is no possible way for it to be countermanded. 

          Not only has the message of the Gospel been determined by God, and concealed from all ages and generations, He has determined to make it known to “His saints.” He is pleased to do this, and has deliberately chosen to do so. He does not want this mystery to be concealed from “His saints.” Likewise, He has determined no others will be granted this knowledge.

          This is one of the privileges that is vouchsafed to those who cleave to the Lord with purpose of heart. It is a blessing that those who come out from among defiling people and elements, refusing to touch the unclean thing, will be given to to know these things. God will show them His secret.

          How marvelously this is spoken by the “sweet psalmist of Israel.” “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant” (Psa 25:14). The Lord “confides in those who fear Him,” ^NIV divulging secrets to them that remain a “mystery” to all others. This was involved in our Lord’s tender words to His disciples. They were spoken on the eve of His betrayal. “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you” (John 15:15).

          This is God’s nature: to unfold His purposes to those who are “His saints.” Such souls have a strong desire to know what God has purposed, and to understand His Word. That is why the Psalmist prayed, “Show me Thy ways, O LORD; teach me Thy paths” (Psa 25:4), and “Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law” (Psa 119:18). No soul driven by such strong desires will be disappointed. To them the word of Jesus will be fulfilled: “These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall show you plainly of the Father” (John 16:25).

Closing Remarks

          Wherever there is a soul that is not satisfied to remain ignorant of God, His purpose, and His Gospel, a candidate for the knowledge of the mystery has been found. Such a soul can be trusted with an understanding of the “the mystery of the Gospel.” It will be a source of nourishment to that person.

          This verse accounts for much of the ignorance of the Gospel that prevails within the professed church. Those who cannot be appropriately called “His saints” are, because of NOT being holy ones, confined to a state of ignorance concerning this Gospel.

          There is no such thing as an unholy person who possesses an understanding of the Gospel. When a person chooses to “live after the flesh” that person dies towards God (Rom 8:13). They may boast of having a love for God and an understanding of the Gospel, but they do not, and have not told the truth of the matter. God will now allow this wonderful knowledge to abide in fundamentally corrupt and wayward hearts. This is an unavoidable aspect of not being able to serve two masters, and it is strictly honored in heaven.

   THE MYSTERY’S RICH GLORY

          “ ^27b . . . what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles . . . ”

          The Spirit now opens something of the magnitude of the “mystery” God is revealing to “His saints.” This is not something that will appeal to “the natural man,” which has no capacity to receive the things of the Spirit of God (1 Cor 2:14). This is what is opened up to “His saints.”

WHAT

          “ . . . what is. . . ” This is a word of definition. There are wondrous things inherent in the Gospel of Christ – “the mystery of the Gospel.” These are the things “contained” in the Gospel, much like a sweet morsel is contained in within the shell of a walnut.

RICHES OF THE GLORY OF THE MYSTERY

          “ . . . the riches of the glory of this mystery . . . ” Other versions read, “the glorious riches of this mystery,” ^NIV “the wealth of the glory of this secret,” ^BBE and “how rich is the glory of this mystery.” ^NJB

          Anything that possesses “riches of the glory” has the evidence of God upon it. “The riches of the glory” speaks of abundant provisions supplied by God for the sons of men. It speaks of Divine adequacy that is the result of Divine purpose and intention. These riches are the means by which life in Christ is sustained.

          It is imperative that we take note of the way in which the Apostle speaks of the Gospel. His language is lofty, and His teaching profound. There is an element of joy as well as profundity – two things that are not often joined. There is simplicity for faith, and depths for understanding – all in the same message. Here the novice and the mature can meet to be challenged, comforted, and to learn. Nowhere does the Spirit ever associate the Gospel of Christ with intellectual simplicity, spiritual rudiments, or mere beginnings. This remains as the staple diet for spiritual nutrition.

          The “mystery” itself – which is the Gospel – possesses this repository of Divine plentitude. This is not something intended for sinners, but for “His saints.” It is not for those who are unreconciled, but for those who have been reconciled to the God from whom they were once alienated.

          Although the Gospel is preached “to every creature,” its richness is manifested only to “His saints.” Those, therefore, who do not declare the Gospel to the church have, in fact, robbed them of Divine provisions. They have taken from them “the riches of the glory of the mystery.” When these riches are not declared, the church becomes anemic and malnourished, for it cannot subsist without “the riches of the glory” that are declared in the Gospel of Christ.

          There is an abundance in the Kingdom of God that is often the subject of proclamation. We read of “the riches of His goodness” (Rom 2:4), the “riches” of “wisdom and knowledge” (Rom 11:33), and “the riches of His grace” (Eph 1:7). There are “the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints” (Eph 1:18), the “exceeding riches of His grace” (Eph 2:7), and “the riches of Christ” (Eph 3:8). There are also “the riches of the full assurance of understanding” (Col 2:2). The salvation of God is an economy of unspeakable richness and abundance.

          In this text, the Spirit uses the phrase “the riches of the glory” – an expression that is used elsewhere in Scripture: “the riches of His glory” (Rom 9:23; Eph 3:16), “the riches of the glory” (Eph 1:18); and “His riches in glory” (Phil 4:19). This is a unique phrase denoting abundant provision that is inherent in things pertaining to life and godliness. It also describes the very fabric of those things, which exude the very nature of God. That is, something that is “rich in glory” reveals Divine qualities and supplies Divine provisions.

          The “glory” of a thing is what reveals it. It is also what brings benefit. Take, for example, the sun, which has a glory of its own (1 Cor 15:54). The earth is lightened and sustained by the glory of the sun – its rays and other things projected from it to the earth. The glory of the sun enables us to perceive something of it, and obtain resources necessary for our survival.

          The expression “the glory of the riches of the mystery” makes known that the Gospel itself brings Divine resources within our reach. There is a revelation of God in the Gospel that nourishes and sustains the human spirit. Much of God’s nature and will is comprehended in the Gospel, and an abundance of what salvation brings is obtained through it. The Gospel is, in this sense, “the power of God unto salvation” (Rom 1:16).

          I cannot understate the seriousness of failing to declare and expound the Gospel of Christ. This is one of the great sins of the modern church. It has allowed itself to be pulled unto areas of lesser importance. The result of such distorted emphases is that Jesus Himself is no longer the Object of fervent quest (Phil 3:7-12), and, consequently, God is not known and understood (Jer 9:24-25).

          When it comes to the revelation of God Himself, the Gospel of Christ outranks all other revelations. It supercedes the revelation of nature, and is greater than the revelation of the Law. More of God is seen in the Gospel. More of His purpose is seen in the Gospel. More of His wisdom is made known in the Gospel. This is the premier message from heaven. What possible reason can be adduced for failing to major on the Gospel of Christ? Those who do so are like those who close up a gold mind in order to play in a sand pile.

THE GENTILES

          “ . . . among the Gentiles . . . ” Several decades after Pentecost (A.D. 58-62), the grandeur of the Gospel being presented to the Gentiles still challenged the Apostle. Even from a jail cell, he was driven by the desire to make this Gospel known – particularly to the Gentiles.

          Actually, the Gentiles constituted the vast majority of the human race. Until the era of the Gospel, everything from God pertained to the Israelites. As it is written, “Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen” (Rom 9:4-5). Jesus said, “salvation is of the Jews,” or “from the Jews” ^NASB (John 4:22). However, it is not confined to them – which is the point Paul is making.

          The word “Gentiles” means “heathen,” or “nations.” From the religious perspective, they are “heathen,” because they “know not God” (1 Thess 4:5). From the political viewpoint, they were “nations,” or bodies of people, grouped by language, geography, or government.

          Using the present population of the world to gain a perspective of the Jew-Gentile ratio, the following may be seen. Presently there are around six billion people in the world, with something over fifteen million of them being Jews. The percentage of Jews is approximately .025 of one percent. I do not know how similar this ratio is to the that of the first century. It no doubt does provide a proper perspective, for God refers to Israel as “the fewest of all people” (Deut 7:7).

          The salvation announced in the Gospel is too large to be confined to a small nation, like Israel. Isaiah spoke of this condition when foretelling the coming of the Messiah. “And He said, It is a light thing that Thou shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth” (Isa 49:6). The New American Standard Bible reads, “It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant To raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also make You a light of the nations so that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

          A “great salvation” is made for a lot of recipients, and an extensive proclamation.

          Now Paul provides a marvelous summation of the rich glory of the mystery of the Gospel. His words are few, but they are weighty. They have seeds of thought in them that are capable of producing a rich harvest of understanding and spiritual perspective. Here is a focused statement of truth in seed form.

   CHRIST IN YOU

          “ ^27c . . . which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

          How can the profound richness of the Gospel be summarized? Is it possible to compress into a single sentence what the Gospel announces and empowers to be accomplished? If you were to ask uninspired men to provide such a summation, you would no doubt receive a variety of answers. Some would view deliverance from the power of sin as the whole of the matter. Others would see thorough adequacy in the flesh as the bottom line. Still others would consider receiving the Holy Spirit, or doing things in the power of the Spirit, as the grand total of salvation.

          Every thoughtful person can see that articulating a single sentence that conveys the nature and effect of salvation is a challenging assignment, indeed. Further, this is not the only summation of the “mystery” of the Gospel. John sums up the whole of the matter by saying, “And this is the promise that He hath promised us, even eternal life” (1 John 2:25). Elsewhere Paul speaks of the bottom line as being “conformed to the image of His Son” (Rom 8:29). Jesus once stated it in these words, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:3).

WHICH IS CHRIST IN YOU

          “ . . . which is Christ in you . . . ” Most versions read precisely the same: “which is Christ in you” (KJV, NKJV, ASV, NASB, NJV, NRSV, RSV, BBE, DARBY, DOUAY, NAU, NIB, RWB, WEB, YLT). Some versions read differently: “which riches is Christ in you,” ^GENEVA “it is Christ in you,” ^NAB “it is Christ among you,” ^NJB and “Christ lives in you.” ^NLT

          What a glorious affirmation: “Christ IN you!” Never before has such a thing taken place. Enoch “walked with God,” yet could not dwell within those of his own generation. As great a leader as Moses was, faithul in all of God’s house (Heb 3:2,5), he was never “in” the people. They never partook of his mind, his spirit, or his desires. His perception of God never was found in the people he led. Even though David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam 13:14), yet he was not able to dwell in those over whom he ruled. They did not have his love for the Lord and His word, and the driving desire that he had to dwell in the house of the Lord forever. John the Baptist, unexcelled prior to Jesus, and who was “filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb” (Luke 1:15), could not dwell in those of his generation. They did not partake of his insight, purity, or commitment to God.

          But now, in this “day of salvation,” a new thing has taken place. The supreme Man, in whom God is pleased to have “all fulness dwell,” is found within those who have experienced reconciliation to God.

          While yet with His disciples in the body, Jesus told them of this spiritual phenomenon – Himself residing in them. “If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him” (John 14:23). He also spoke to the multitudes about the one in whom He would personally dwell: “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him” (John 6:56). Paul spoke of the indwelling Christ to the Romans: “And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness” (Rom 8:10). He also confessed to the Galatians, “Christ liveth in me” (Gal 2:20). Later Paul says of those who are in Christ that Christ Himself is “in all” of them (Col 3:11).

          There can be no question about what is being said. It is perfectly consistent with the rest of Scripture. In Christ the promise of Isaiah is fulfilled: “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones” (Isa 57:15).

          Certain religious bodies have made much of how we get into Christ – and rightly so. We are, after all, “baptized into Christ” (Gal 3:27), by virtue of being “baptized into His death” (Rom 6:3). This is of critical importance, and the Spirit makes no provision for denying this reality or balking at its affirmation. However, getting into Christ is not the end of the matter, and ought to be treated as though it was.

          “Christ in you” refers to our post-baptism life, and not to baptism itself. It is part of the spiritual “now” perspective. Furthermore, Christ being “in” us is never associated with our baptism, or any other response associated with our induction into Christ Jesus.

A Remarkable Prayer

          In a most salient statement of the case, the Apostle to the Gentiles speaks of Christ dwelling in believers. He is very specific about how this is accomplished, and the purpose that is achieved by it. “That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Eph 3:16-19).

          Here is something that cannot be accomplished by a mere procedure, or any single act of obedience. God Himself must come into the picture. Our “inner man,” where Christ is intended to reside, must be made strong, so that we are blessed and benefitted by Christ within. This inner strength cannot be accomplished by means of a routine or discipline. One of the functions of the Holy Spirit is to strengthen and fortify our inner man so Christ “may,” or “can,” reside within us. We must not assume that an indwelling Christ is a simplistic matter – it is not. Christ does not take up residence in weak and emaciated believers. They must be made strong by the Spirit for this to occur.

          The objective to be accomplished by Christ dwelling within is also stated. It is in order to our spiritual stability: being “rooted and grounded in love.” And that is not the end of the matter. The Divine intention is that we may be able to perceive the marvelous extent of this salvation, and have productive knowledge concerning the love of Christ: “May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Still, the Divine objective does not end there. The ultimate intention is that we might be “filled with all the fulness of God.”

          When, therefore, our text says “Christ in you,” a lot has been said, and much has been implied. Further, this is something to be realized by those who are already in Christ – who already have faith, and already love all the saints.

What Does This Involve?

          There are several things involved Christ being in us. Some of them include having “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16), receiving ministrations from the Head, (Col 2:19), and maintaining fellowship with Jesus (1 Cor 1:9). There is also the matter of being “joint heirs with Christ” (Rom 8:17), and walking in the light “as He is in the light” (1 John 1:7). There is even the process of being “taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus” (Eph 4:20-21).

          Now, behold the Spirit’s revealed objective in Christ being “in you.”

THE HOPE OF GLORY

          “ . . . the hope of glory.” Most versions read the same. One exception is the New Living Translation which reads, “this is your assurance that you will share His glory.” The sense of the text is not violated by this translation.

          The “hope of glory” is the same “hope” Paul formerly said “is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the Gospel” (1:5). It is the “hope of the Gospel,” from which we are not to be moved (1:23).

          Here, the “hope” is viewed from the standpoint of what we will be rather than where we will be. God has already revealed His ultimate objective for us is glorification. As it is written, “Moreover whom He did predestinate, them He also called: and whom He called, them He also justified: and whom He justified, them He also glorified” (Rom 8:30). Presently, we are in the “justified” state. Through the working of the Holy Spirit, we are progressing to the “glorified” state.

          Glorification is the culmination of our salvation, when “we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (I John 3:2). This is the “glory” to which we have been “called” (1 Thess 2:12; 2 Thess 2:14; 1 Pet 5:10). It involves our bodies as well as our spirits and souls. In our totality, we will be “glorified together” with Jesus (Rom 8:17).

          David sensed this objective and put into these words: “One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple” (Psa 27:4). Paul, speaking from an even more illuminated point of view, said: “If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead . . . I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:11,14).

          Remove “the hope of glory,” and there is no purpose for being a Christian. That is precisely why it is written, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Cor 15:19). This is none other than the “hope” by which we are saved (Rom 8:24-25).

          What keeps this indispensable hope alive? It is not some creedal profession. It is not something sealed, or finalized, when you come into Christ. The “hope of glory” is maintained by Christ dwelling within – productively and consciously. Where there is no fellowship with Christ there can be no hope – no confident expectation of being forever with the Lord. Any claim to such a hope when Christ is not dwelling within is a mere delusion.

          This has some rather alarming implications, for much of what we see in the professed church accents neither Christ nor hope. Notwithstanding, our hearts must be able take hold of the truth, else it will not make us free (John 8:32).

   WHOM WE PREACH

          “ ^28a Whom we preach . . . ”

WHOM

          “Whom . . . ” Other versions read “Him,” ^NKJV and “it is He.” ^NRSV The subject of reference is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. It is the “Christ” who is “in you.” He is the heart of the Gospel, the Administrator of salvation, the Mediator of the New Covenant, and the appointed “Heir of all things,” through whom God has spoken to us in these last days (Heb 1:2).

The Significance of “Christ”

          “Christ” is a designation of great significance in Scripture, being used some 555 times in the New Covenant writings: sixty times in the Gospels, thirty-one times in the book of Acts, four hundred and fifty-three times in the Epistles, and eleven times in the Revelation.

          The word “Christ” means “the Anointed,” or “the Messiah.” To be more particular, it means “the One who has been anointed” – anointed by God. This anointing has exclusively to do with the salvation of God – with bringing men to Himself (1 Pet 3:18) by removing their sin and conducting them through the straits of this world to glory (Heb 2:10).

          Throughout the Prophets, God revealed that the rescue of men was going to hinge upon a single Man. Various descriptions of this single individual were given – all of them pertaining to a person who would be raised up among men. It would not be an angel, or some other form of spirit. It would be a man. A brief rehearsal of some of these terms is necessary to the exposition of this text.

✙    The “Seed” of the woman (Gen 3:15).

✙    A “Prophet” like unto Moses, to whom the people would hearken (Deut 18:15,18).

✙    “Shiloh,” a person to whom the people would gather (Gen 49:10).

✙    God’s “King” (Psa 2:6).

✙    God’s “Firstborn” (Psa 89:27).

✙    A “Son” called Immanuel (Isa 7:14).

✙    A Person who would be for a sanctuary and a stone of stumbling (Isa 8:14).

✙    One upon whose shoulders the government would be placed, whose name would be “Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isa 9:6).

✙    A “Rod” out of the stem of Jesse (Isa 11:1).

✙    A “Branch” upon whom the spirit and wisdom would rest (Isa 11:1-2).

✙    A person of “quick understanding in the fear of the Lord” (Isa 11:3).

✙    A Person to whom the Gentiles would seek (Isa 11:10).

✙    A “Man” who would be for “a hiding place from the wind and a covert from the tempest, as rivers of water in a dry place, and the shadow of a mighty rock in a weary land” (Isa 32:2).

✙    God’s “Servant,” His Elect, in whom He would put His Spirit (Isa 42:1).

✙    A Person whom God would give as a “covenant of the people, and a light of the Gentiles” (Isa 42:6).

✙    A Person who would bear our griefs and sorrows, and be “stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted” (Isa 53:4).

✙    One who would be “wounded for our transgressions,” “bruised for our iniquities,” who would bear “the chastisement of our peace” 53:5).

✙    A Man upon whom the Lord would lay “the iniquities of us all” (Isa 53:6).

✙    A Man who would be removed from the earth at a relatively young age, “cut off from the land of the living,” and without any fleshly offspring (Isa 53:8).

✙    A Person who would be buried with the wicked, and with the rich in His death (Isa 53:9).

✙    A Man who would be “numbered with the transgressors,” “bare the sin of many,” and “make intercession for the transgressors” (Isa 53:12).

✙    A “King, who would reign and prosper,” in whose days Judah would be saved, whose name would be called “The Lord our Righteousness”(Jer 23:5).

✙    One “like unto the Son of man,” who would be given “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom” that would “never be destroyed” (Dan 7:13-14).

✙    “Messiah the Prince” (Dan 9:24-25).

✙    God’s Servant, “the Branch” (Zech 3:8).

✙    The “Messenger of the covenant,” who would purify the people “that they may be unto the Lord an offering in righteousness” (Mal 3:1-3).

SALVATION THROUGH A MAN

          Over and over the Prophets emphasized that salvation would come through a Man – a Man sent from God. Peter accents how this stirred the hearts of the prophets. “As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful search and inquiry, seeking to know WHAT PERSON or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow” ^NASB (1 Pet 1:11).

          The salvation of man would not come through a religious system – even a God-ordained system, like the Levitical order the and tabernacle service. It would not come through a body of people, even a people who had been chosen by God, cultured by His prophets, and led and cared for by Him. The deliverance of men would come by a Man – a single individual.

          Salvation would not come through a code, or set of laws – even ones that were written with God’s own finger in tables of stone. It would not come through an institution – even one that had been ordained by God, like Jewry. The rescue of the human race would come through a Man – one solitary Man!

          It is no wonder that the revelation of the Savior to Peter included Him being “the Christ.” You will remember that Jesus asked His disciples how the people perceived Him. After they had answered, He asked them, “But whom say ye that I am?” In the glow of a sudden burst of insight, Peter replied, “Thou art THE CHRIST, the Son of the living God” (Matt 16:16). At that moment, Peter saw Jesus as the promised Man – the One through whom God would fulfill all of the Messianic promises.

          This is the indwelling “Christ” who is “the hope of glory” – the Pledge of eventually being glorified – made to be “like Him” in all of the components of our person. There is no system that compensate for a lack of Christ within. There is no institutional identity that can make up for a lack of Christ. There is no amount of religious work that can counterbalance a deficiency of the Person of Christ dwelling within.

          When Christ is “in you,” everything that He brings is accessible to you! When He is not dwelling with you, nothing that He brings can be possessed. Further, the presence of Christ is not to be assumed. If He is within you, earnest self examination will confirm that to be the truth. Here is how the Scripture states the case. “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” (2 Cor 13:5). Nothing is more important than this discovery.

PREACH

           “ . . . we preach . . . ” Other versions read, “Him we preach,” ^NKJV “And we proclaim Him,” ^NASB “whom we announce,” ^DARBY and “we tell everyone about Christ.” ^NLT

          The subject of proclamation is the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the at the heart of the message. In a sense, He Himself is the message. Philip “preached Christ” (Acts 8:5). As soon as Saul of Tarsus was converted, he “preached Christ” (Acts 9:20). Paul told the Corinthians, “But we preach Christ crucified” (1 Cor 1:23). In Thessalonica, Paul confirmed it was Christ that He was preaching (Acts 17:3). He said that he had “fully preached the gospel of Christ” (Rom 15:19). The establishment of the saints is according to “the preaching of Jesus Christ” (Rom 16:25). Paul said he did not preach himself, “but Christ Jesus the Lord” (2 Cor 4:5). Among the Gentiles Paul preached “the unsearchable riches of Christ” (Eph 3:8).

          As already mentioned, “Christ” is mentioned in the Epistles and the Revelation (all written to those who are in Christ), four hundred and sixty-four times. It is exceedingly difficult for me to imagine what would prompt any person to imagine Christ is not to be preached, or proclaimed, to the church. This is especially true when we consider that all of the letters written to the churches are filled with proclamations of Christ. Believers are told it is “by” Christ that we “believe in God” (1 Pet 1:21). Grace and peace are coming to us from Him (Rom 1:7), as well as “love with faith” (Eph 6:23).

          Christ is associated with the appropriation of righteousness (Rom 3:22), justification and redemption (Rom 3:24), and having peace with God (Rom 5:1). He is necessary for receiving the atonement (Rom 5:11), the “gift by grace” (Rom 5:15), reigning in life (Rom 5:17), and grace reigning through righteousness unto eternal life (Rom 5:21). He is the one who loves and nourishes the church (Eph 5:29), intercedes for us (Heb 7:25), and from whom the whole body is built up (Col 2:19). Christ destroyed the devil (Heb 2:14), spoiled principalities and powers (Col 2:15, and is bringing many sons to glory (Heb 2:10). His present relevancy is consistently proclaimed as well as the effectuality of His death and resurrection.

   WARNING EVERY MAN

          “ ^28b . . . warning every man.”

          Paul now elaborates on the preaching of Christ, confirming he is not speaking of only introducing men to the salvation of God. It will at once become apparent to you that the things described are not at all common in the nominal church.

WARNING

          “ . . . warning . . . ” Other versions read “admonishing every man,” ^NASB and “guiding.” ^BBE It is important to emphasize that this is a sort of breakdown preaching Christ: “This is the Christ we are proclaiming, admonishing . . . ” ^NJB That is, the preaching involves the warning, or admonition. It is incorporated in the message.

          Here, the word “warning” does not mean warning of impending danger. As used in this verse, the word “warn” means to put one in mind of what has been declared, moving the people to believe it and act upon it. Warning would include the recollection of the inadequacy of nature, the weakness of the flesh, and the futility of worldly wisdom. Paul pressed the message, confirming its centrality. Nothing must be allowed to subvert its effect upon the soul. No place can be made for competing influences. The heart must be carefully guarded, lest an “evil heart of unbelief” overtake us (Heb 3:12). All of that is involved in warning.

          The modern church is not doing well in the areas of preaching, warning, and teaching. There is too much entertainment, commitment to eternally inconsequential things, and things and relationships that will pass away.

          This is a message that requires a response. It is not like the daily newspaper that one can read and lay aside. It is imperative that men respond to this Gospel by believing and embracing it, whether initially or in spiritual growth and advancement. If men do not believe and embrace this Gospel, they have responded by rejecting or spurning it, and it will be laid to their account – whether they are presently in Christ or not.

          The word “warning” comes from a word meaning “to admonish, warn, instruct, as giving instructions in regard to belief or behavior.” ^THAYER There is a note or urgency in the word. The admonition refers more to preparation than to procedures related to mundane relationships. This should be apparent to us from our exposure to the Epistles . While there are a number of issues addressed in the letters to churches and individual believers, the burden of their content does not relate to such things. Instructions concerning family relationships, master and servant relationships, and conducting ourselves toward political leaders are surely contained in Scripture. However, the percentage of Scripture dealing with such matters is nowhere near 10%.

          The warnings and admonitions of Scripture are generally addressed to all of the saints, with a few references to certain groups like children wives, husbands, masters, servants, etc. This should be apparent enough to confirm this point is not to be labored.

          The “warning” of reference is emphasizing the call to take the way of escape that God has provided in Christ Jesus. It relates to keeping ourselves in the love of God and not being moved away from the hope of the Gospel. The reason for such warning should be obvious. God has nothing to give us that does not come from Christ, the appointed Vehicle of all blessing. Furthermore, those who are not in fellowship with Christ, living by faith and walking in the Spirit, are incapable of receiving from Christ.

          Therefore, as long as we are in this world, we must hear of Christ and be stirred to avail ourselves of His ministry. As long as we are faced with competing interests, we must hear of Christ. As long as our adversary walks about, seeking whom he may devour, we must hear of Christ. As long as we are tempted, we must hear of Christ. That is why anyone who heard Paul, whether an Athenian philosopher, a member of a Jewish counsel, a Roman ruler, or a leading Christian – they all heard of Christ. That is the Person Paul preached.

          Some preach a plan. Some preach a movement. Some preach a church. Paul preached Christ, warning and admonishing his hearers in view of the Christ that he preached. No preacher or teacher who fails to major on Christ will escape the judgment of God!

EVERY MAN

          “ . . . every man . . . ” Sin has leveled the field in which preaching occurs. There is no special Gospel for the young or the old, for male or female, or the slave or the master. There is not a special Gospel for the Gentiles, and another for the Jews. The dreadful innovation of specialized ministries has introduced more liabilities than advantages. At some point the salvation of God must be seen as a “common salvation” (Jude 1:3), and its message as a singular one. There is not a syllable of Scripture that justifies any other approach.

          The same application of the Gospel is made to “every man.” This is because the thrust of the Gospel is singular. There is something common that is to be found in the response of every person subjected to the Gospel.