The Mystery or Secret of the Gospel of Grace

Jamie Pantastico writes for Mesa Bible Study

Written by Jamie Pantastico

On February 7, 2024

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.

 

 

Jamie Pantastico
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Jamie Pantastico

Mesa Bible Study

Faith, Sine Qua Non

“What is Not Properly Understood can “Not” be Properly Applied”

 

 

 

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What Saith the Scripture?

Most problems in interpreting Bible passages arise from neglecting a passage’s context. The guiding principle of sound interpretation is to take a passage literally. Not maintaining this discipline, interpreting Scripture becomes made up, man’s idea, fantasy, and the passage can mean almost anything. The result is erroneous and ridiculous interpretations.

Another important principle to sound Bible interpretation is to read Scripture “in-time”. In other words, we have to read and study the Bible as a progressive revelation. Not getting ahead of God’s revelation.

God’s plan of redemption for mankind wasn’t revealed all at once to Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah, or any of the other old testament prophets. Not even Peter and the eleven were given the full counsel of God. The Lord revealed to each of the aforementioned what they needed at their particular time in Biblical history. A hermeneutical method that does not approach Scripture as a progressive revelation leads to erroneous interpretations.

To be a good bible student one must maintain a literal, grammatical and historical (in-time) hermeneutic. There has been much too much of man’s theology governing Scripture when it is God’s Word alone that reigns over theology.

 

Z

Who's writing?

Identify the author of the book and passage.

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Who is the author writing too?

Who is the audience? Yes, all Scripture is for us but not all of Scripture is directed to us our salvation and doctrine (how to live our daily lives). To say all of Scripture is, is erroneous interpretation.

Z

When was the Book or Passage written?

This is necessary to identify the time and historical context.

Z

What were the circumstances when it was written? (what was going on)

Z

What was going on before and after it was written?

What happen before and after the particular Book or Passage you’re reading?

Z

What is the HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE VERSE?

Where does the Bible verse fit in Biblical history. Use the answers from the list of these questions to identify the “historical context”.

Z

Are there other passages that the Author has written to help expand on the verse your reading?

Z

Utilize the full counsel of God to illuminate the passage

All of Scripture fits perfectly.

 

The Good News

salvation

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. You don’t have to do anything but believe by faith that God sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead 3 days later.

THE GOOD NEWS

SALVATION

Salvation is a FREE GIFT from God. SALVATION IS BY FAITH ALONE & FAITH IS BELIEVING WHAT GOD SAYS.

  1. God declares all mankind sinners and we all fall short of Glory of God. Romans 3:23
  2. The payment for our sin is death. Romans 6:23
  3. But God…because he loved you so much sent His own Son, Jesus Christ, to die in your place, for your sins, was buried, and rose from the dead three days later. 1 Cor 15:1-42cor 5:21

All God asks is that you believe by faith alone in 1, 2, & 3. That you’re a sinner, separated from God but God sent his Son to die for your sins, was buried & rose again 3 days later.

that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 10:9

Do You Believe?

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