Do You Understand the Mystery of Christ?

Ah, the mystery of Christ. That is exactly what God revealed to Saul, who went on to become the apostle Paul. This is what Paul said about this message which he was given: "I want you to know, brothers, that the Gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ." (Galatians 1:11,12)

Not only that, but Paul referred to this message as a "mystery." He wrote to the believers in Ephesus, "In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets." (Ephesians 3:4,5)

And to the Christians at Colosse Paul wrote, "I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness - the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:25-27)

Why all the suspense? Why all the intrigue? And why was it such a mystery? Those are questions only God can answer. But one thing is sure. God has chosen to reveal this mystery not only to Jews like Saul of Tarsus, but also to many Gentiles as well. Who knows? You may be next. Or are you as strongly opposed to the Gospel message as Saul was before his conversion? Even if that does describe your current spiritual state, there is still hope for you. If Saul can be converted, anyone can be.

To understand the Gospel message involves receiving a spiritual revelation. It involves spiritual discernment. An "aha moment" if you will. The good news of salvation through Jesus is a message so simple a child can understand it, and yet so deep the most brilliant minds have missed it. It seems to pass right over the radar of our human understanding. Remember - it is a spiritual message comprised of concepts, words and historical events. It is not a natural message. The Gospel is a supernatural revelation of truth, and only those who receive it humbly will find themselves beginning to understand it and believe it. keep reading