Ephesians 6:19

“And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery (secret) of the gospel.” (As given to Paul and Paul alone in Acts 20:24; I Corinthians 15:1-4; Galatians 1:1, Galatians 1:11-12.)

The apostle Paul reveals a mystery (or secret), previously concealed—a groundbreaking truth that both Gentiles and Jews can attain salvation through faith alone in the completed work of the cross. This unprecedented revelation marks the first time in biblical history (around 37-40AD) that Gentiles have direct access to Israel’s God. All through the Old Testament there was no provision for Gentile salvation except through the nation of Israel. God kept it secret that He would one day go to the Gentiles directly with a message of salvation based on grace through faith alone in the finished work of Christ apart from Israel, the Mosaic law, circumcision, and temple worship.

As Gentiles believers, we become joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:15-17) the moment we believe the gospel, not just for this life but for all eternity—an awe-inspiring salvation that should stir our souls and lift our hearts to praise Him. No looming doom or judgment, no uncertainty.

We stand unshakable in this mystery—the gospel of the grace of God—this fellowship that we, as Gentiles and members of the body of Christ, not only anticipate but are already partaking in.

The Word “Mystery”

‘The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.’

Deuteronomy 29:29

In Ephesians 6:19, the term “mystery” originates from the Greek word “musterion,” denoting a secret. Here, it reveals the profound truth of salvation accessible to both Gentiles and Jews through faith alone in the finished work of the cross apart from the law. The apostle Paul and Paul alone, entrusted with this revelation, unveils the hidden wisdom, making known the once-concealed plan of God for all mankind (Romans 11:25, 11:32-33).

Embodied in the word “mystery” across Paul’s epistles (Romans 11:25, 16:25; 1 Corinthians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, 1 Corinthians 13:2, 1 Corinthians 14:2, 1 Corinthians 15:51; Ephesians 1:9, 3:3-6, 3:9, 6:19; Colossians 1:26-27, 2:2, 4:3; 1 Timothy 3:9, 1 Timothy 3:16), it unfolds divine wisdom—once concealed but now disclosed.