Ephesians 1:9-10 9making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in him 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
The mystery of God’s will is revealed in Jesus Christ. The word mystery is a significant concept that is related to being “in Christ.” The word itself describes something hidden; the only way to know it is for it to be revealed. God’s mystery is the plan of salvation through Jesus Christ and the ability of human beings to participate in and experience this salvation plan. This word is used six times in this short letter (1:9; 3:3, 4, 9; 5:32; 6:19). This plan has been hidden since the creation of the world but has been fully revealed in Jesus Christ. Those who are in relationship with Jesus Christ and have submitted to his lordship in sanctification experience this mystery and grow in it as it is revealed by the inner working of the Holy Spirit. To be in Christ is the open door and only way to experience the mystery of God.
For us to experience this mystery is God’s will, purpose, and the very reason we have been created. This “purpose” can also be translated as “good will.” God’s plan is for our good and is the way by which we experience his favor, mercy, and grace. Significantly, this is found and experienced “in Christ.” Our existence as humans is best experienced in relationship with Jesus Christ.
The word for plan can mean how something is managed, ordered, and arranged. In a similar passage in Colossians 1:16, Paul writes that all things were created through Christ and for Christ, and this includes us as the final mark of God’s creation. All things are united in Christ who is the very glue of the universe. This plan came at the right time in history and encompasses all of time. The fullness of time can mean that which complete or fills up time. Even time itself is wrapped up in Jesus. The cross and resurrection stand at the center of all of time and show God’s eternal plan stands outside of time but is fulfilled within time.
Paul adds the exhaustive statement, things in heaven and things on earth. The word “unite” is rare in Greek. The root of the word means “head” and has a preposition “up” attached. This combination has the idea of bringing something to a head, summing it up, and gathering all things together. These claims about Jesus in this passage are significant, substantial, and exhaustive. This opening section of Ephesians is one of the most profound statements of who Jesus is and what he has done for us.
For older posts, click here.